Standing With Essex County Educators

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the Legislative Action Team meeting of the Essex County Education Association, the Essex County chapter of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA).

It was an important opportunity to listen, learn, and stand alongside the educators who dedicate their careers to helping our children learn, grow, and succeed. As a current member of the East Orange Board of Education, I have been working closely with our educators for years. 

Furthermore, I am proud that the Essex County Education Association has endorsed my campaign for Essex County Commissioner in District 3. It means a lot to me to have their support.Their endorsement is more than a campaign milestone, it represents an opportunity to build a meaningful partnership around the issues that matter to educators, students, and families across Essex County as I work together bring those priorities to the County Commissioner Board. 

Teachers and school employees deserve quality pay, strong benefits, safe and supportive working environments, and the resources they need to do their jobs effectively. When we invest in educators, we are also investing in our children and in the future of our communities. Times are rough, and the cost of living has increased significantly. Our teachers should not be forced to take the short end of the stick.

As a member of the East Orange Board of Education, I understand firsthand how important it is for elected officials to listen to educators and work collaboratively with them. Our teachers and education professionals bring valuable insight into what our students and schools need, and their voices should be part of conversations about the future of our communities. I believe we can work together to create better opportunities for educators, strengthen our schools, and ensure that the people who educate and support our children are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

I am grateful to the Essex County Education Association for welcoming me to their Legislative Action Team meeting and for the opportunity to talk directly with their members, hear their priorities, and honor the work they continue to do on behalf of educators throughout Essex County.

As we move toward Election Day, I look forward to continuing to listen, learn, and build partnerships with the people who make Essex County stronger every day.