I am running for the Jefferson Township Board of Education in order to represent all of those parents who have felt, and continue to feel, that the Board has failed to openly and honestly address the substantial issues facing our district.
I am the proud father of two daughters in our district - ages 5 and 11, and like every parent, I want my children to have the best opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. A fundamental part of this is having a fundamentally sound core education which addresses challenges head on.
This is a critical moment for our district. Since 2017, state S2 funding cuts have reduced our budget by $45 million. We’ve seen the closure of Milton and Cozy Lake schools, troubling results on the NJGPA, and continued tax increases—including last year’s 5.67% increase. These challenges directly affect our children’s education, the stability of our schools, and the financial well-being of our community.
I believe our children and our parents deserve better - they deserve steady, thoughtful leadership which will ensure we navigate these challenges responsibly while never forgetting the core of our mission - the quality of our children's education.
As an attorney for almost 20 years representing nonprofit organizations and public housing authorities, I have developed a strong understanding of governance, fiscal responsibility, and the proper role of a board member. I know how to listen, evaluate complex issues, and make decisions that balance competing priorities while always staying focused on the mission.
Equally important, I bring the perspective of a parent. With two daughters in our schools, I live the reality of what it means to entrust our district with my children’s education and well-being. I understand the concerns families have and the hopes we share for our kids. I will combine my professional experience with my personal commitment as a parent to serve in a way that is both practical and student-focused.
This is one of the board’s most important and difficult responsibilities. Retaining great teachers must be a priority, because strong educators are the foundation of student success. That means ensuring they feel valued and supported—not only through fair compensation, but also by giving them the resources and respect they need to succeed.
At the same time, I know how heavily recent tax increases have impacted families. With significant funding cuts, school closures, and a 5.67% increase in taxes last year, we cannot simply ask taxpayers to carry a greater burden without demanding efficiency and accountability. We must focus spending on initiatives that directly improve student outcomes, reduce waste, and operate with full transparency.
The balance lies in always putting students at the center of every decision. If a policy helps students learn, strengthens teacher retention, and respects taxpayers, it’s worth pursuing. If it doesn’t, we need to ask tough questions and find better alternatives.
I believe our curriculum should prepare students for not only academic success, but also for life beyond graduation. That means a strong emphasis and understanding of the core academics - mathematics, language arts, science and social studies - with a focus on civics, technology, financial literacy and career readiness—areas that will equip students with practical tools for adulthood.
The reality of the education system today is that our children are not leaving school better prepared than we were. This must change. We must return the focus to critical thinking and problem-solving so students do not just memorize information but can analyze and communicate it to another effectively. Whether a student is college-bound, entering a trade, or pursuing another path, our schools must provide opportunities that help them explore their strengths and interests.
Finally, our curriculum should reflect the values of our community and the world our children will be stepping into. By grounding education in respect, accountability, and fairness—while exposing students to broader perspectives—we can help raise not just academically successful graduates, but thoughtful, engaged individuals.
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