Stafford Election Profile: Gerald Simonelli For School Board

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Seven people filed to run for three-year terms on the Stafford Township Board of Education. Stafford voters must choose three for the positions. See candidates here.

Patch submitted a question-and-answer form to the candidates. Simonelli provided information on why he's running again and what he's promising. Contact Josh Bakan at josh.bakan@patch.com for information on getting featured in a candidate's profile.

Age (as of Election Day)

60

Position Sought

Board of Education

Slogan

Community Together Wins

Family

Theresa (wife of 32 years), Anthony, Brielle, Nicolas

Education

Masters plus 30

Occupation

Retired teacher after 32 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Board of Education. Running for second term

Campaign website

none

Why are you seeking elective office?

I want to be a member of this Board because we have a strong and successful school district and I want to ensure it stays that way.

The single most pressing issue facing our community is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I feel the single most pressing issue facing our community is getting through the pandemic issue. As an experienced teacher as well as a parent, I can provide insight and discuss the issues from many different view points in order to help problem solve.

Once this pandemic is over, it is imperative that we make sure the district recovers. The students, parents, teachers, and staff will need to try and settle into a new routine despite the disruption the pandemic has caused. Students may need extra services due to academic losses, not to mention the impacts on their mental health. As the head of the Curriculum and Special Education Committee, I will make sure there are programs in our schools to meet these needs.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am a retired Special Education teacher who has experience when it comes to curriculum and services being provided to a diverse group of students. I am familiar with many programs that our district uses and how important they are to keep this district strong. Also as a coach I have had to deal with concerns from parents and players and have always treated them with respect even if we disagreed on the outcome. I also have the experience of three successful years serving this Board.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

The state has cut funding to our district. Because of this, we are going to have to think outside the box in order to provide a quality education for all of our students. With 32 years of teaching experience, I believe I can come up with creative solutions that would help the district.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I feel my 32 years as a Special Education Teacher and a coach both in school and as a recreation coach demonstrate my experience and ability to contribute to this job. I have dealt with many people in many different situations.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

"Be strong but not rude. Be kind but not weak. Be humble but not timid. Be proud but not arrogant."

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I would be honored again to have three more years to make the Stafford School District one of the best in the state.

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