Montclair Public Schools staff, student athletes and community members gathered Saturday for the dedication of the Dr. Jonathan C. Ponds Memorial Field.
Dr. Ponds, who was appointed superintendent of Montclair Public Schools in 2020, served until his death on Friday, July 12, 2024.
The district dedicated the field “in recognition of Dr. Ponds’ unwavering commitment to educational excellence, equity, and the belief that every child deserves to thrive.”
The Montclair Board of Education voted unanimously to rename the renovated baseball field for the late Montclair Schools superintendent in September 2024.
The resolution described how Ponds understood the importance of athletics and extracurricular activities, the renovations needed at the Aubrey Lewis Sports Complex and the many challenges, obstacles and hurdles to overcome to ensure that students had a safe place to play sports.
Earlier this month, the Moonachie School District held a celebration of life to honor Ponds who also served as that district’s superintendent.
The Moonachie BOE also created “The Dr. Jonathan Ponds Always Do Your Best Memorial Scholarship” to be awarded to a graduating 8th grade student who shows dedication to academic and social growth.
