Why are you running for the BOE for Frelinghuysen Elementary School?

I am an incumbent running for my 7th-3 year term for the Frelinghuysen Township BOE. Serving my community has been a passion of mine since we moved here 27 years ago. Once I was voted onto the BOE, I have found it very rewarding to work together with my fellow board members to make sure we are planning and implementing strategies for the success of all students attending Frelinghuysen Township School.

What are the three most important issues facing the school today?

1. Financial Responsibility/continued cuts to the budget from the State
2. Student performance post pandemic
3. Staffing or lack of due to the current workforce shortage

Tell us about yourself and what experience you have that would make you a good candidate for the School Board position?

I moved with my family to Frelinghuysen 27 years ago just as my oldest child was about to start Kindergarten. We chose this township due to the excellent schools and its reputation. I had 3 children attend FTS and NWR. My husband and I have owned a restaurant in Rockaway for the past 27 years of which I continue to work as a bookkeeper. I have served our community on the FTS BOE for the last 18 years. During these past 18 years, there have been many changes from policies, to decreasing funding, safety and security of our staff and student’s. In this role, I have helped hire members of the FTS administration and staff, and have served on the Negotiations Committee several times. I have supported our school through challenges brought forth from the Pandemic and changes in enrollment. We work well together on the board and listen to each other’s opinions, but always keep the students education as our priority. I find it very rewarding to be a part of the education of the students of our future.

What have you done to prepare to be a Board of Education member?

Being a returning BOE member of 18 years, I bring a great deal of experience that I believe will allow me to strongly support FTS for the next 3 year term. I have completed all of my necessary Board Trainings, and I am updated on all current policies. It has always been and remains, my priority to be prepared and present at all meetings and school functions.

What are the strengths and achievements of the Frelinghuysen Elementary School the community it serves.

We are a high achieving school that is able to provide individualized learning to our students because of our small size and dedicated staff. We have always sent our 6th Graders to NWR very prepared for their next 6 years of Middle and High School Education. I am very proud of all of our students’ achievements and the efforts of our staff to ensure their success.