When it comes to running for school board, we believe the more the merrier.
The more candidates who file to run in April’s election for seats on the school board, the more vibrant and enlightening the debate is likely to be.
That’s why we are encouraging Hillsborough residents to file petitions to throw their names into the hat before Monday’s filing deadline.
Three, three-year seats are on the ballot, those currently held by current board President Neil Hudes, David Kanaby and Wolfgang Schneider.
Whether or not the incumbents plan to seek re-election is not the issue. A large field provides voters with choices and ensures that more than just the obvious issues get a hearing.
Last year, for instance, five candidates ran, including the “slate” of Frank Blandino, John Donnario and Greg Gillette, whose active and visible campaign challenged the way many voters viewed the normally sleepy board elections.
The issues board members must wrestle with including improving the scores on standardized tests for some groups of students, dealing with changes in state funding rules, updating school curriculum, among others should be part of a broad public discussion. A large field of active candidates can help ensure they are included.
Candidates must get 10 signatures from registered voters living in the district and submit their petitions to the board by 4 p.m. Monday.
Candidates must be able to read and write, be a U.S. citizen and have lived in Hillsborough for at least a year. In addition, they can have no interest in any contract with, or claim against, the board; they cannot hold office as mayor or member of the Township Committee; and they must be registered to vote in the township.
Hopefuls can obtain board candidate kits, which include candidate qualifications, a nominating petition and explanations of campaign procedures and the role of a school board member, by calling the board at 908-369-0030. They can be picked up at the school board offices in the municipal complex.
While serving on the school board is challenging, the rewards of the work are immense and visible, with a visit to any of the township’s schools.
