The South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education election takes place on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Three of nine seats are up for election. Three candidates filed to run by the July deadline and appear on the ballot: Shayna Sackett-Gable, Liz Callahan and Will Meyer. Two candidates, Jeff Bennett and Anthony Mazzocchi, announced a write-in campaign on October 7. Village Green is posting letters of support for all candidates: Deadline for submission is October 31 at 5 p.m. Read our guidelines here. Read all our election coverage here.
As previous Presidents of the SOMSD Presidents’ Council we have worked closely with district administration over the years and stayed up way too late at more BOE meetings than we can count. We have watched boards work collaboratively together. And we have seen those who … don’t.
At this crucial time in our district we believe it is essential to elect candidates who will ask meaningful questions, listen to multiple perspectives, focus on best practices, data and measurable goals, and prioritize policies that will promote significant progress for students, staff and families.
We support the candidates Shayna Sackett-Gable, Liz Callahan and Will Meyer. They are thoughtful, dedicated, education professionals and having them on the BOE would be like winning the lottery for the district. They will contribute impressive experience and fresh ideas and perspectives.
We know they were surprised to be unopposed but they committed to running a full campaign and, as they said, “earn every vote.” We have been impressed with their tireless devotion to doing just that. They have been hosting and attending public coffees and are at seemingly endless events around town. They have been present for every BOE meeting, the retreat and many, many other district events. We appreciate their commitment to campaigning and serving. Their engagement with the community has been a significant sacrifice and this further instills confidence in their readiness to do the hard work ahead.
It is no secret that there has been dysfunction and factions on the BOE. We must have a well functioning board if we are going to be able to address any of the many serious and urgent issues the district is facing.
Shayna, Liz and Will have already reached out to and met with current BOE members. They have pledged to work collaboratively for the sake of students, families and staff. They each have the commitment, expertise and temperament to support and hold the administration accountable for the imperative and complicated work that must be done. They are exactly who we need at this critical time.
Susie Adamson, Phoenixville, PA (former SOMSD BOE member)
Amy Forman, South Orange
Jung Lee Masters, Maplewood
Tia Swanson, South Orange
Jessie Wendt, South Orange
