To become a member of a local board of education in New Jersey, you must:

• Be able to read and write
• Hold U.S. citizenship and one year's residency within the school district
• Be registered to vote in the district before filing the nominating petition
• Have no interest in any contract with, or claim against, the board
• Not hold office as mayor or member of the municipal governing body
• Not simultaneously hold two elective offices
• Not be disqualified from membership for the conviction of certain crimes (Within 30 days of election or appointment to the board, a member must undergo a criminal history background investigation through the state Department of Education.)

Fingerprinting for Board Members

The State of New Jersey has partnered with Sagem Morpho to provide livescan fingerprinting for any individuals seeking to volunteer or work in a public school district. Appointments for fingerprinting may be scheduled with Morpho Track by phone at (877) 503-5981 or online at www.bioapplicant.com/nj The cost for the livescan fingerprinting is $67.50 payable by credit/debit card or money order. Payment is required at the time of scheduling.

Click here to view instructions on how to get your Criminal History Background Check.

Upon completion of your appointment you will need to provide the State of New Jersey with approval for them to conduct your background check. This can be done by visiting the Criminal History Review Unit’s website at www.nj.gov./education/educators/crimhist/ and following the instructions listed on the website. There is an $11.00 fee charged by the State of New Jersey for this service.

Should you have any questions regarding the fingerprinting process please contact Samantha Irons, 856-467-5133 x 308.