Get To Know Garwood School Candidate: Denise Ridente

GARWOOD, NJ — Denise Ridente is one of the five candidates running for election in the contested Garwood School Board election being held on Tuesday, Nov. 6.

There are five candidates vying for three three-year seats on the board with candidates including: Mary Ann Kjetsaa, Maureen Scepkowski, Joseph Miceli, Ralph Trentacosta and Denise Ridente.

Get to know Ridente:

Denise Ridente

Description:

My name is Denise Ridente, I have lived in Garwood for 24 years. I am married with two children ages 9 and 14. Both of my children have attended the Garwood Public Schools so I am very familiar with the elementary and middle school. I received a master’s degree in Social Work from New York University in 1994. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker working in private practice. I work with adolescences, adults, and their families.

Why are you running for the school board?

I am running to ensure that the Garwood School district is preparing our students to be successful in High School and beyond. I am an advocate for change and want to promote a difference that includes listening to and addressing student and teacher needs.

What experience do you have that would help you serving on the school board?

I bring experience in assisting others to problem solve and collaborate together as a team. I can contribute knowledge of middle school culture during this time when school safety is an undeniable reality.

What issues would you like to see addressed if elected?

I am an advocate for continuing education for our teachers. I believe our teachers should be given every opportunity to advance professionally. It is also important to listen to our teacher’s, our student’s and our community about our school system. I promote our school’s advancement towards technology and the expansion of our arts program. As our town continues to grow, our board will need to collaborate in working towards increased student enrollment. I will work together with board members on researching cost effective savings and fiscal responsibility on our school budge along with advocating for students with disabilities and their parents. I have a great passion for mental health and substance awareness in our youth and I hope to use my expertise to help build bridges between school, family and community.

— (If you are a candidate and would like to participate in the profile, please email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com)

(Image provided: Denise Ridente)

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