Brick School Board Election 2022: Erin Wheeler

BRICK, NJ — When voters go to the polls Nov. 8, they will be asked to choose people to serve on the Brick Township Board of Education.

There are two seats open this year, each of them three-year terms. The Board of Education is an unpaid elected position.

Four people are seeking election to the board: Frances DiBenedictis, Madeline Iannarone, Erin Wheeler and Maureen Molz.

Patch asked each candidate to answer questions to give voters information about who they are and their stances on various issues. We are printing their responses in full, unedited except for spelling or punctuation.

Here are the answers for Erin Wheeler, who is 40.

Tell voters about your family: My husband and I live in Brick with our bulldog.

Tell voters about your education: I have a bachelor's of science degree in physics education from The College of New Jersey. I also have a master's of arts degree in educational leadership.

What is your occupation? I have been a high school chemistry teacher, in New Jersey public schools, for 19 years.

Previous elective office, if any: None.

Do you or anyone in your family work for the state, county or local governments? No.

Why are you running for the Board of Education? I want to diligently work to represent the needs of the entire Brick community, listen to concerns of all stakeholders and utilize my experience in education to help make Brick schools better for every student.

What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing the Brick Township schools and what do you want to do about it?

I feel student achievement should be a main focus of the district and Board of Education. All students have endured a few not-so-normal years of learning and we need to be sure students have gained the essential skills necessary to excel in the 21st century. By prioritizing student achievement as a board member, I will ensure all students receive the best education possible that will prepare them for their future.

The Brick Township schools continue to suffer cuts under S2. What do you think the district should do to address the financial crush the cuts are creating?

I think the district should request any adjustment aid from the state of NJ to help offset the impact of S2. The board should also develop a strategic plan, in collaboration with all stakeholders, to address the long-term effects of S2.

The school district – like districts all over – has dealt with vocal criticism of curriculum, including social-emotional learning, which has been part of education for years. As mental health concerns and bullying continue to skyrocket, do you feel efforts to address kindness and empathy in school are misplaced?

No, I believe addressing student social-emotional learning is more important than ever. Students have been through a lot in the past few years and their mental health has suffered. When students’ mental health wellness is addressed and improved they can then focus on learning and their academics. Kindness and respect should be practiced at all levels in the school community. As a board member, I will lead with compassion and respect to make decisions that benefit the students, staff and community of Brick.

If you could change one thing about how the Brick Township schools are being operated right now, what would it be?

I don’t believe there is anything that needs to be drastically changed at this time. I would continue to improve facilities, ensure safety and focus on student achievement if elected to the Brick Board of Education.