The Week at NJ21st: Berkeley’s Bottom, Water World, Rajoppi’s Games and Help a Watchdog Out

Aug 2, 2025

Top of the class, bottom of the curve An educator in our community breaks down the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA), drawing from a recent presentation at a New Providence BOE meeting. Out of the nine districts, Millburn and New Providence sit at the top while Berkeley Heights remains at the bottom.

Sink or swim John takes an in-depth look at how well towns are meeting their commitments under the Union County Hazard Mitigation Plan. Scotch Plains has work to do, while Fanwood appears to be on the right track.

Empty ballots & stacked decks Berkeley Heights has six candidates running for three seats. New Providence? None. Meanwhile, Union County continues to misinform voters — announcing only two seats as open in Berkeley Heights (likely to benefit the two incumbents). No surprise, considering who from Berkeley Heights sits on the County Election Board and her track record. Side note: NJ21st informed the County of the error days ago. There is still no correction.

Mayoral Mystery Awards Laura asked the Berkeley Heights Mayor how the town decides who gets a day or award named after them. The answer? Hormone Free, Non-GMO and predictable.

The poor pay first John examines how recent national legislation and an executive order could impact thousands of vulnerable New Jersey residents — including working- and middle-class families.

Truth isn’t free After four years of self-funded reporting and hard work, NJ21st is entering a new phase. We’re expanding our civic journalism model — and we need your support to do it. Contributions are now open.