Tell voters a little bit about your background and how it has prepared you to serve on the Board of Education.
I am an educator, a former public school principal, an advocate of providing training and employment to disadvantaged youths and adults. I am the President and owner of National Career Institute, an evaluator for the Council on Occupational Education, member of the Board of Trustees and Chair of Academics for Pillar College. I am currently Vice President for the Progressive Leaders of Tomorrow and served as former Commissioner for the Accrediting Council of Independent Colleges and Schools. I am an ordained minister. I hold a Bachelor, Master and Doctorate degrees. Those experiences have equipped and prepared me to serve on the Board of Education.
What inspired you to run for election?
I chose to want to be a part of educating the youth of Jersey City. I believe that children are the future of our country, therefore, the better they are prepared, the better our country would be. I would like to be a part of that preparation.
What would your priorities be during your term on the board?
My priority would be implementing new technology, rebuilding and repairing old schools. Increase budget oversight assuring that all money spent is spent appropriately and accounted for.
School taxes have gone up sharply over the last five years. What would you do to control school spending?
I would have accountability for existing monies, consistent review of budgets, monitor audits and make sure we stay within the guidelines of the budget so taxes can remain stable.
The graduation rate is low. What do you think can be done to improve it?
I will implement more education support through mentoring and tutoring programs. Recommend support services for students who experience high drop-outs (i.e. housing, pregnancies, etc.), recommend alternative schools and implement a more in-depth mental health program. I believe that combination of these services will assist in increasing the graduation rates.