The residents of SOMA have spoken, and the members of the Board of Education have listened.

In response to input from community members in last year’s survey asking for greater communication with the school district, the board is initiating a pilot program of monthly BOE office hours starting Thursday, Oct. 18, from 7:30-9:00 p.m., at the South Orange Public Library.

Parents and community members can speak one-on-one with board members about school issues or topics, in an informal, drop-in setting. Two to four board members will be available each time.

Beth Daugherty, Lynne Crawford and Madhu Pai will be at the Oct. 18 meeting.

"The board felt it was important to find additional ways to engage with the South Orange/Maplewood community beyond the formal monthly meetings," said Pai. "We look forward to a good turnout."

The venue will alternate between the South Orange Library and the Hilton Branch of the Maplewood Library, and will occur every third Thursday of the month. Here is the full schedule:

October 18 
7:30-9:00 p.m. 
South Orange Library 

November 15 
6:30-8:00 p.m. 
Maplewood Hilton Brach Library 

December 20 
7:30-9:00 p.m. 
South Orange Library 

January 17
6:30-8:00 p.m. 
Maplewood Hilton Branch Library 

February 21 
7:30-9:00 p.m. 
South Orange Library 

March 21 
6:30-8:00 p.m. 
Maplewood Hilton Branch Library