Office of the Superintendent
Dr. Jonathan C. Ponds
The Montclair Board of Education is deeply saddened by the sudden and devastating passing of Dr. Jonathan Ponds. Dr. Ponds gave countless hours of his life to the children of Montclair. He worked tirelessly to improve our schools with the goal of making sure that all the children of Montclair left school with the tools they needed to live lives of independence, fulfillment, happiness and success - however that may have looked for them.
Dr. Ponds was at his core a kind, caring and thoughtful human being who committed his life to the education of children. We were honored to have had the privilege to have known him and worked with him. He gave so much to our community at great personal sacrifice, never asking for fanfare. No matter what he faced, he always kept going for the good of our district.
Dr. Ponds always said, “keep the main thing, the main thing.” And he lived every minute of his tenure here in Montclair personifying that ideal. Every single thought, word, action. It was all always about doing what is best for the students of Montclair. In his memory, the Board of Education will continue this work and honor his legacy. This is a tragic loss for Montclair and the world in so many ways.
We will be forever grateful for all that he gave to our schools in the 4 years of his tenure. We have come so far and are committed to continuing this path of progress in his honor. Our deepest condolences to his wife and three sons. Please hold them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
-Montclair Board of Education
photo courtesy of Montclair Local