Tensions Rise in Palisades Park as School Board President Alleges Threat After Heated Meeting

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Palisades Park NJ,  the conflict between the Palisades Park Board of Education and the teachers’ union reached a boiling point during a special board meeting on April 11, where Board President Soo Chung claimed she received a life-threatening remark following a tense public session.

The emergency meeting was held in response to a vote of no confidence passed by the Palisades Park Education Association last month. The union accused the board of mismanaging funds and neglecting contract negotiations for district educators, who have been working under an expired contract since June 2024.

Teachers Union vs. School Board: What Sparked the Feud?

The teachers’ association claims the school board is prioritizing excessive legal fees over fair wages and student programs, causing significant strain on public school operations.

The current expired contract outlines 17 salary steps, starting at $58,650 for new teachers and peaking at $90,350 for senior-level educators with a bachelor’s degree.

In response, Board President Soo Chung delivered a 20-minute prepared statement, condemning the union’s tactics as “unprofessional” and “deceptive.” While no formal vote occurred, Chung suggested holding a vote of no confidence in the union’s leadership.

President Alleges Threat Following Meeting

Shortly after the meeting adjourned, Chung reported a threat against her life made in front of witnesses. She filed a police report and noted that she and her family now fear for their safety.

“I and my family don’t feel safe. This should not happen to board members—during meetings or anywhere else,” Chung said in a follow-up email.

Northjersey.com has submitted a public records request for the police report, though it has not been made publicly available as of April 17.

Tensions Over Teacher Compensation and Test Scores

Chung also drew criticism for her remarks during the meeting regarding teacher compensation versus student performance. She noted that despite “competitive salaries,” the district’s test scores are below the state average, raising concerns about “the disconnect between pay demands and educational outcomes.”

This comment angered many in attendance, including a teacher who said it was personally hurtful, especially given that over 30% of the student population are English language learners.

 Public Backlash: Parents and Teachers Respond

Parents and teachers who filled the meeting room expressed disappointment and outrage, claiming the board used the session to criticize educators rather than offer meaningful updates on contract progress.

Audience members were also frustrated when board members attempted to pass motions without a clear roll call, leading to confusion. The board attorney had to check his phone multiple times to determine vote outcomes.

“We took time away from our families to be here and all we heard was the board bash our teachers,” one parent said during public comment.

 What’s Next? Both Sides Urged to Return to the Table

The school board maintains it is committed to reaching a fair agreement, emphasizing the importance of balancing the needs of students with the contributions of educators.

However, union president Amanda DiLullo Bellottie said the board’s conduct at the meeting only solidified the union’s lack of confidence.

“Rather than working collaboratively toward a resolution, the Board has chosen to escalate tensions, weaponize public meetings, and alienate its own staff and community members,” she said.

Bellottie urged the board to resume good-faith negotiations, and called for a renewed focus on transparency, respect, and student success.

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