Get To Know Garwood School Candidate: Ralph Trentacosta

GARWOOD, NJ — Ralph Trentacosta is one of the five candidates running for election in the contested 2018 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.

Ralph Trentacosta

Description:

Hello, I’m Ralph Trentacosta. I am 37 years old and I am running for a position on the Garwood Board of Education.

I have been a Garwood resident since 2002 when my wife Ann and I moved into town. We have four children, three of which are currently enrolled in Lincoln school; Chase (5th grade), Blake (1st grade) and Kendall (Kindergarten). I am a Software Engineer Lead for Cognizant in Bridgewater.

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

Being involved with Lincoln school since 2013, my wife and I have a great experience with the teachers,
staff and administration.

Why are you running for the school board?

There are many reasons why I am running but here are a few:

1. The years ahead of us are going to be critical for the school. As the town’s population is expected to grow, we need to ensure that our school is in a position to handle this influx of students.
2. I’d like to see the school engage more with parents and students. We can accomplish this via round tables and such, not just expect parents to voice concerns and issues at a Board of Ed meeting.
3. As a parent of elementary school students, trying to assist with homework, especially math,was a challenge. It would have been helpful to understand the math being taught in class as the math I was taught was no longer valid. I would look for a way to educate the parents to make homework less stressful.

In my career I am often asked to solve challenges, sometimes when others have given up. I look forward to this as I cannot stand to hear “It cannot be done!”. I look outside the box to find solutions. I may not always be successful, but I never quit without trying.

What issues would you like to see addressed if elected?

With three of my children in the school and one more to follow, I am invested in making Lincoln school students stand out. This can be done only by ensuring the students have the technology and materials they need, ensure our curriculum is clear, and make sure every student has a fair chance.

In my role as a lead engineer, I look to assist those around me. Take ownership of assisting those around me. Making sure goals are met. This experience can prove to be very resourceful as a board of education member and I would utilize it by making sure the board is operating to its fullest potential and meets the expectations of the community.

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

(Image provided: Ralph Trentacosta)

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