This fall, four candidates are vying for three seats on the 9-member South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education: Trish Azeez, Liz Callahan, Kevin Diaz, and Will Meyer. Village Green is posting endorsements for candidates from current and former elected officials who hold or held townwide office or higher, as well as endorsements by local organizations. We ask that endorsers coordinate with candidates for full guidelines. Read more election coverage here.
Will Meyer and Liz Callahan. Photo by Tracy Sham.
Dear South Orange and Maplewood Community,
Experience matters, especially in times like these. Our school district needs leadership that understands the importance of thoughtful decision-making, accountability, collaboration, and the willingness to recognize when a particular approach has not worked and make the necessary corrections.
Effective leadership is not simply about making decisions. It is about understanding the history behind those decisions, listening to the community, evaluating results, and having the courage to adjust the course when necessary.
During their first terms of service, Will and Liz have gained valuable experience navigating the complexities of school district governance. That institutional knowledge matters, particularly when decisions made today are connected to discussions, policies, and initiatives established years earlier.
Continuity in leadership provides an opportunity not only to build upon accomplishments but also to recognize challenges, correct the course, and move forward with greater understanding and purpose.
Our students deserve a school district where academic achievement, student well-being, equity, fiscal responsibility, and transparency remain priorities. Our educators deserve support, and our families deserve to know their voices are being heard.
I believe Will Meyers and Liz Callahan bring the experience, perspective, and commitment necessary to continue working toward meaningful solutions for our schools and community. Leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about asking the right questions, learning from experience, accepting responsibility, and working collaboratively to achieve results.
We cannot afford to lose valuable experience at a time when our district needs steady, informed, and accountable leadership.
Experience Matters. Leadership Matters. Our Students Matter Most.
Sincerely,
Garnet R. Hall
Former New Jersey State Assemblywoman, Legislative District 28
Maplewood Resident and Community Leader
