>Christina M. Krauss : Concerned about the future of Ridgewood schools and our Tradition of Excellence
Next Wednesday, April 27th, Ridgewood voters will have the opportunity to vote for Board of Education candidates. I am prepared and committed to working diligently for Ridgewood residents and for our Village students. I am asking for your support: the support of my fellow Ridgewood residents, taxpayers, parents and all who are concerned about the future of Ridgewood schools and our Tradition of Excellence.
My decision to run for a position on the Board of Education was borne out of many years of community involvement and a sincere interest in our governing bodies and their decision making process. My background as a small business owner is the lens through which I view most issues. In order to make an informed decision, I feel all options must be investigated, potential problems thought out, spirited debate with all concerned parties engaged in and critical cost analysis (where it applies) performed. Then, and only then, can a well-reasoned conclusion be drawn. From my own experience and that of other parents I have spoken to over the years, that process is often not the norm when dealing with the BOE. For many, interaction with the Board, particularly at a public meeting, is often an anxiety-inducing encounter. Most who speak are left with a negative impression of the Board because their demeanor suggests a lack of sensitivity and engagement. Perception is reality and the current perception discourages participation. While technology and e-mail communication can be useful in responding to concerns, plain-spoken answers free of bureaucratic catch phrases would be welcome by many. It can never hurt to have an additional conversation in regard to any issue.
It is my goal, when elected to the Board of Education, to ensure taxpayers are informed about the process that results in any final decision. Whether taxpayers agree with decisions or not, at least they will be able to trust the decision makers and respect the process.
With the new master plan amendment currently being reviewed by the Village Council, opportunities will again arise for public comment. I am by no means a detractor of Valley Hospital. My children were born there and it has served my family and this community well over the years. I do, however, have serious concerns about the scope and duration of the proposal. While technological advancements and continuing facility improvement will forever be a part of the hospital’s development, the impact on the surrounding community and neighboring schools may well result in unprecedented changes to the character of our village. It is the Board’s responsibility to be mindful of the impact that a multi-phase, decades-long demolition and construction project will have on the adjacent middle school and nearby elementary school and high school. Health and environmental concerns need to be addressed well before any work takes place and the unrelenting distraction to and disruption of the children’s learning environment needs careful consideration by the Board.
Our school district has been embroiled in the controversy over the math curriculum for several years now. The math curriculum is of great concern to many families who have expressed frustration: a significant number are opting for outside tutoring. While tutoring certainly has its merits, it should not be a requirement in a district like ours with such a talented and dedicated staff. Perhaps ongoing research into the most effective program with proven results (at the lowest cost to taxpayers) bears further investigation. If the current math program is inappropriate or does not meet current standards, it must be redressed immediately in order to ensure the district prepares our students most effectively.
The issue of teacher tenure and benefit compensation is another area that residents across the state are facing currently. I believe those issues should be approached as any responsible business person would and have employees retained based on their contribution to the organization and the growth of the students in their care. Nowhere in the private sector is job security based primarily on the length of time one has been in their position. Additionally, many taxpayers’ incomes have stagnated or decreased and boards of education are going to have to find ways to be creative and do more with what they already have and the benefit compensation structure will have to reflect those changing economic realities. Many of those decisions are being crafted in Trenton now and it seems as though a restructure of the system is in order.
It is my hope that given the opportunity I will be able to facilitate a more responsive and transparent relationship between the Board and the citizens it serves. The fiscal realities we are currently faced with leave little doubt that times have changed and so to must our approach to public education. As I am not currently involved in the budget process, where the best long-term cost savings may lie is yet to be determined, but I truly believe that a new perspective will reveal options that have yet to be considered.
I look forward to serving this community as a member of the Board of Education and hope that you will allow me that privilege by casting your vote for me next Wednesday, April 27th. If anyone would like to contact me directly with questions, please e-mail to cmk488@optonline.net.
Christina M. Krauss
