To the Editor:
I am writing to express my strong support for Board of Education candidates Gupta and Liu in the upcoming November 5 election. Our district faces critical challenges that demand fresh perspectives and diverse expertise.
Our district's concerning trends are clear: we've dropped to 39th in state rankings (according to publicschoolreview.com), experienced unprecedented levels of Bullying , Intimidation, and Harassment (HIB) reports, and face a growing student mental health crisis. These issues require innovative solutions and new approaches.
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Gupta and Liu bring exceptional qualifications to address these challenges. Ms. Gupta's financial expertise is crucial in today's economic climate, complemented by her commitment to arts education and responsible technology policies. Mr. Liu combines computer science background with U.S. Navy leadership experience, positioning him perfectly to advance STEM education.
Their candidacy represents diversity in its fullest sense—encompassing varied mindsets, skills, and experiences. In our district, where Asian students constitute approximately one-third of the student body, their election would help balance the Board's cultural representation, which currently falls far short of reflecting our community's composition.
Recent criticism of these candidates has come primarily from long-term board members overseeing our district's declining performance. One incumbent, serving for 15 years, has played a part in rising property taxes and falling high school rankings in Bernards Township. At this time, we need fresh faces and a diversity of thoughts and cultures to represent us at the BOE. This resistance to new voices suggests a troubling pattern of groupthink.
What distinguishes Gupta and Liu is their commitment to genuine community engagement and willingness to listen to residents' concerns—a refreshing change from current dynamics in which community input often seems dismissed.
Our district needs leaders who will:
Gupta and Liu combine professional accomplishment with a deep commitment to educational excellence. Their election would bring valuable diversity in thought, experience, culture, and approach to our Board of Education.
I urge fellow residents to vote for Gupta and Liu on November 5. This election offers an opportunity to bring positive change to our district's leadership. The choice is clear: maintain the status quo or embrace qualified candidates who bring fresh perspectives and proven expertise to address our challenges.
Sincerely,
Iwan Juwana
Thackeray Drive
Basking Ridge
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