Dear Editor:
Should have, would have, could have – but didn’t. The best intentions are worthless without action. On November 4 an important election will take place and I am writing to alert your readers that they can act today.
The citizens of Hoboken pay taxes toward the city, county and schools. It is this last sector where I, Peter Biancamano, have served as a trustee for the last three years. Why would I want to be re-elected again? After all, the Hoboken public schools continue to suffer a litany of challenges:
Academic performance that does not place Hoboken’s schools in NJ monthly’s top 100.
Administrative turnover so rapid that they barely learn where the schools are located before they leave.
A $65 million dollar budget for a school system that has decreased in K-12 enrollment every year since 2010.
A controversial lawsuit that pits one group of parents against another and diverts dollars from our mission as educators.
But these issues are exactly why I should continue to serve on the Hoboken Board of Education and why I am asking your readers to act today to re-elect Francis Rhodes-Kearns and Peter Biancamano.
I have learned during my time as a Board member that no singular member of the nine member board can enact change. It takes an ability to work with other Board members even when we hold opposing views. I keep in mind that, ultimately, our common aim is the improvement of our public schools even if we differ strongly about the ways to achieve that result. Although we are in the minority, Fran and I have managed small victories – reducing legal fees and the food service debt. Our efforts resulted in more money for the classrooms. But honestly, larger issues remain to be tackled.
Fran and I are experienced, reasonable watchdogs over the Hoboken Board of Education. We hope you will agree and act to bring us back by electing us on November 4. Or, you can act today by completing a Vote by Mail Application at http://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/form_pdf/vote-mail-ballot-012712.pdf.
Should have, would have, could have – but didn’t. Don’t let this describe you on November 5.
Respectfully yours,
Peter Biancamano
Hoboken Board of Education member