Dear Editor:
I write this letter during a special week of gratitude because there is much I’m grateful for – my family, profession, people I serve, public education and this great city I love! As a school board member it gives me great joy and pride to know that we have a distinguished chief school administrator who’s rolled up his sleeves to accomplish the work that is needed for our district and students to receive the best leadership it deserves for world class education.
Mr. Carter’s take action policy clearly speaks louder than his words, so I commend him. It is an honor to work with a dedicated knowledgeable leader who understands the need to involve the parents of public housing in the discussion of public education, as well as, harnessing all stakeholders throughout the city for that one common goal. Mr. Carter has ensured that he is accessible to host public forums with parents and I thank him for the recent one we facilitated in the Housing Authority which attracted over 70 parents to this forum.
Thank you also to Assemblyman Ramos, Freeholder Romano, 4th ward councilman Michael Lenz who represented Mayor Zimmer in this educational forum. Special thanks to Keila Colon, Sandra Smith and Lisa Dortch who helped coordinate it. Education is my greatest pillar and it’s the most powerful engine we have to produce 21st century, creative, conceptual, critical thinkers and leaders. I’m passionate about making sure our children receive an excellent education so I thank Mr. Carter for the vision and plan he’s planting for the next superintendent. I also want to thank Phil Defalco for his public service to our students as a volunteer to our hard working board, we salute you!
Wishing all of you a happy, healthy and peaceful thanksgiving! God bless you all!
Carmelo G. Garcia
H.H.A. Executive Director & School Board Member