With a focus on strengthening collaboration between community stakeholders and the future of our district, the Hillsborough Education Association established a screening committee composed of members from throughout the district, many of whom live in Hillsborough themselves.
Chaired by Bob Fenster, Hillsborough Education Association (HEA) parliamentarian and Hillsborough High School social studies teacher, the committee offered all Board of Education (BOE) candidates the opportunity to answer questions and attend live interviews conducted via Zoom to discuss their individual platform and vision for Hillsborough Township Public Schools. Three candidates returned the necessary information, attended the screening, and were eligible for consideration.
The candidates were given a questionnaire of ten questions about a variety of topics. We then asked them another set of different questions in a virtual interview. Finally, we reviewed available public statements of the candidates. It was our goal to fully understand each candidate and his/her position so a fully informed recommendation can be made.
Following the process, the HEA Screening Committee recommended the candidacies of Danny Lee and Josh Gamse for Hillsborough BOE to the HEA’s governing body, comprised of over 70 representatives from across the district. This recommendation was unanimously affirmed.
After carefully reviewing all the information, the committee felt that Josh Gamse and Danny Lee were deserving of our endorsement. We believe they provide a variety of perspectives with professional experience in biotech and IT (information technology) client services management. Their priorities include increasing transparency and communication, fiscal responsibility, and protecting academic excellence in our schools.
Hillsborough Township’s schools, businesses, township, police and fire are top-notch, often resulting in the community being identified as one of the best places to live. Partnership with all stakeholders has allowed Hillsborough’s schools to navigate many challenges, while continuing to deliver the exceptional education for which the district is known.
Our district has faced considerable challenges recently, but we have seen firsthand how collaboration and fact-based decisions can guide our schools through this tumultuous time and protect the quality education delivered to our students. Most recently, collaboration between the board, administration, local New Jersey Assembly and Senate representatives, and the HEA resulted in $1 million in additional funding from the state for school infrastructure that will be used to support our students and repair damage from Ida.
We are proud to support board candidates who share the goal of providing excellent education through engagement of all stakeholders as they seek what is “Best for BORO.”
Henry Goodhue
HEA President
Bob Fenster
HEA parliamentarian