Dear Editor:
The Urban League of Hudson County (ULHC) would like to publicly endorse the recent appointment of Dr. Charles T. Epps to the position of State District Superintendent of the Jersey City Public Schools. More significantly we urge all parents, business leaders, community and government agencies, and residents of Jersey City to rally behind him and provide the support necessary to bring about the kind of quality education that will prepare our children for life.
We give this endorsement thoughtfully; our programs include daycare, after-school academics and job training for adults. Each day we see the impact that a good education, or lack thereof, can have on children from elementary school into adulthood, where an inadequate education can hinder their ability to find employment and limit their career choices. We believe that Dr. Epps embraces the Urban League motto, “Our children = Our destiny,” and has demonstrated over many years of dedicated and successful service to the children of Jersey City that his primary concern is, and always has been, improving conditions for the children.
It is gratifying to know that the Commissioner of Education and the State Board members acknowledge that a local person, with a proven track record of success, is best suited to run the school district and effectuate the return of the schools to local control. We commend them for their choice and ask that to continue to support Dr. Epps during this crucial period of transition. Dr. Epps has vested himself in the future of our community and our school system. His hands-on experience with the individuals and other factors that impact the administration of the system give him the ability to bring together all parties and have them work together. The position of District Superintendent is the glue that holds our public education system together and allows all its components to work together effectively to achieve a common goal — a quality education for all children enrolled in the Jersey City public school. We are confident that Dr. Epps is the right person for this important job.
Eleanor Watson, President and CEO
Urban League of Hudson County