Cliffside Park board appoints Dean Nikac to one‑year seat after interviews

The Cliffside Park Board of Education voted to fill a one‑year board vacancy on May 18, 2026, appointing Dean Nikac following interviews with three candidates and a closed‑session deliberation.

Dean Nikac, a Cliffside Park resident for 23 years who told the board he has worked for the town for 12 years and has three children in the district, told members he would bring hands‑on experience with buildings and grounds and municipal budgeting. "I think I can help out as far as with people in town…anything I could do to help the Board of Education or the town itself, especially with teachers," Nikac said during his remarks.

The board heard brief statements from the other candidates: Don Bishnoi highlighted his finance and technology background, including experience with portfolio management and agentic AI; Theodore (Phil) Sakach described long ties to the community as a local practitioner and practice owner. Each candidate answered follow‑up questions from board members about time commitment and specific skills.

After a closed executive session to deliberate, the board returned to open session and took nominations. The motion to nominate Dean Nikac carried on a roll‑call vote: Mrs. Abruzzo, Mr. Kapana, Mrs. Freda, Mr. Deidre, Dr. Pantaleo, Mr. Rainbolt and Mr. Russo voted yes; Mr. Yunits was absent. Chair announced the administration will arrange required onboarding: online ethics training, a criminal‑history check and swearing‑in next week.

The appointment fills the seat through the end of the current one‑year term; Nikac will need to run for election in 2027 to retain the seat. The board chair said candidates would be notified of the outcome the following day.