Election

“During my eight years in office, I’ve worked to make life better for all of South Orange’s residents. I’ve helped make our budgeting process more transparent and our finances more stable, … But I’m most proud of the work I’ve done in ensuring that future residents will continue to benefit from the investments we have made in our village.”

To be considered for an endorsement by the Maplewood Democratic Committee, candidates must submit a letter of interest and a resume by March 3, 2025. The deadline to file a petition to be on the primary ballot — as a Republican or Democrat — is March 24, 2025. The primary is June 10.

“I am excited that my open seat will create opportunity for others to raise their hands and bring their unique voice to our government. … I believe in competitive elections, giving voters a choice, and I hope that more than one candidate will seek this position and run in the primary.”

Candidate Educational Webinar on February 18; Public Candidate Forum on March 10 

SOMEA President Rocio Lopez told board that she hopes they can work together come to an contract agreement to get teachers “the pay we deserve.”

“Again, I ask: What is the power of a board? It is to ensure that the actions of bad actors do not stymie the progress of our school district. This also underscores the immense power of a school board: while we can support growth, we also have the potential to thwart progress. That is a sobering reality and a responsibility we must never take lightly.”  

Cripe thanked voters who “entrusted me with this role…I never in a million years thought a kid from Daytona Beach would have been doing things here in Maplewood, but you gave me a chance, and I appreciate the support, the criticism, the calls to to do the right thing, the challenges that have come with being in this role.”

“Public service is rewarding, and I strongly recommend it to everyone in our two towns. We can only improve when we all work together, especially for our children. I wish the best to the students, teachers, administrators, and the incoming and continuing board members. Parents, stay involved.”

“Someone once told me that serving on the Board of Education is about passing the baton—you work hard to keep the District moving forward and to leave it better than when you started. I believe we have done just that. The District is on an upward trajectory, and I am optimistic about the progress still to come.”

“I’m excited! It’s game time!” said Mayor Sheena Collum, saying the move will promote voter engagement and turnout, save money, and pave the way for more ballot reform.