Make a change? But how?

I recently was asked how i wanted to "make a change". I wanted to share my reply.

First things first. I obviously want to change who's on the board. I want to change the dynamics of the board. I want to change how the board interacts with each other and the community. I've attended many many meetings where the current board is just so disconnected from each other. Many ugly arguments and inconsistencies.

I feel like I'm a fresh voice and it's time to shake things up at the BOE. It's time for change. It's time for something new.

I want to change how the public views the board. Right now it's not very positive. This needs to change. A board that works together cordially is one that can achieve anything. I want what's best for my kids and all the students of Paramus. I'm not saying the current board doesn't have the students best interest in mind it's just how are they supposed to accomplish anything when they can't agree on simple things. (Attend any meeting and you will see what I mean.)

Last night I attended the monthly board meeting and there were 8 people in the audience and that included one reporter. You might say "well that's b/c it's the summer", but honestly that's the usual attendance unless there's some pressing matter that the parents are upset about. Our community doesn't attend these meetings regularly at all. That's something I would love to work on. Getting the parents and community wanting to attend and be more informed on what the board is working on to better our district.

More to come! thanks for listening.

But why?

As soon as I announced my candidacy for Paramus Board of Education I was repeatedly asked, "Why?" "Why do you want a volunteer position where you're not paid for all the hard work it demands". Well the answer is because. Because I love Paramus. Because I love the Paramus Schools. Because I want what's best for my kids and your kids. Because I'm sick and tired of sitting back and being unhappy with the current board's actions and decisions. Sure.. i could sit back and do nothing. But that's not me. I can't sit back and watch our schools be only good. I want to do something to make them great. Make them outstanding.  Hey, I know I can't change everything. Nobody can. But being elected is a start. There are many many reasons why I'm running. But truth be told I'm running mostly to shake things up at the Board of Ed. It's time they got a new voice. It's time for a change. I hope I can count on your vote on November 8th. Make a difference. Make a change.

Summer improvements!

 I'm always happy to see summer improvements at our schools. The biggest discussed update of the summer is the East Brook turf. Originally I had thought it was supposed to be used for soccer. But now with the installation of the goal posts and the lines I'm beginning to think differently. Regardless of what sport will be using the field, I think it looks absolutely fabulous. Now if only they could fix West Brook up as nicely. Maybe next year.

4th of July - Help from my little friends.

I attended the Paramus 4th of July parade with some little friends... by little friends I mean my daughter and her 11 year old friends. They were happy to help me spread the word that I am running for Board of Education. Honestly I think they think they are my campaign managers. They each wore a tee shirt with my name, that I made at my house the night before (i'm a bad procrastinator) and they walked the parade route handing out my business cards with contact information and candy. I wanted to thank my little friends (or shall I say minions) for doing such a great job! So thank you to my daughter Katie and her friends, Riley, Vanessa, Lea, Jenna, Amanda and Rachael! Thanks for spreading the word!

Paramus Scholarship Night

Last night I had the honor of presenting two scholarships to West Brook alumni  from the West Brook PTA. I was amazed and so happy to see so many organizations donating scholarships to graduating seniors. The room was packed with not only soon-to-be graduates but with family, friends and supporters. What a great night. I was so honored to be a presenter and to just be there. A big congratulations to all the Paramus graduating seniors! Enjoy and cherish these last days of high school and best of luck in all your future endeavors.

8th Grade Philadelphia Trip

Joey leaving for the bus at 6am

My son, Joey, left today for his 8th Grade West Brook trip to Philadelphia. I was a little disappointed knowing that they no longer go on a longer trip to Washington DC like I did when I was his age.. but that was until I read on a friend's Facebook page that their 8th grade trip is to iPlay America (an amusement park). Not very educational at all! I'm so happy and lucky that our district puts on emphasis on education. And I believe hands on teaching is the best way to learn. I know Joey and his class will have a lot of fun in Philly for the next two days but I also know how much he will be learning!!! Great job Paramus for not doing away with these educational trips. If only my friend's district was as lucky.

It's Official!

Today I went down to the Bergen county clerks office to officially file my petition to run for Board of Education.  So it's official. I will be on the ballot in November. I won't lie, I'm a little nervous about all this. But I'm very excited about what's to come.