Meet The Gloucester Twp. School Board Candidate: Linda Gilch

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — When voters cast their ballots in the Nov. 3 elections, they will be asked to choose three people from a field of seven to serve on the Gloucester Township K-8 Public School District Board of Education.

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. Below are the responses from candidate Linda Gilch.

Previous elective office, if any

Previously was on the Gloucester Township BOE for 16 years.

Does anyone in your family work for the school district or in politics?

No one works for the school district or is involved in any politics in Gloucester Township.

Education

High school and some college credits

Occupation

I currently work at the Gardner Funeral Home.

Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?

I feel I can make a difference. I feel very strong about education and that every child should have a chance and can learn.

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

I can't give you one issue facing schools today. There are a few, with one being the money that needs to be equitable and fair funding for all students to succeed. One other right now is the challenge of learning during this time of the coronavirus and making sure that all children are engaged and learning. This is very difficult making. We need to make sure that we as a district are providing all the resources needed to families and staff who are teaching our children. While I can't make any promises on how I can change things, I can only make sure that opportunities are always going to be there for every child.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking to serve on the school board seat?

I was on the board for 16 years and have gained a wealth of knowledge by being involved with the New Jersey School Board Association, and receiving Certifications. While I was on BOE, I had a stellar attendance record. While not being on the BOE, I still attended all school board meetings and keeping myself informed at all times. To my knowledge some of the candidates that are running have NEVER attended a school board meeting. So how can you think you are qualified to run if you never had an interest in coming to meetings. I never had a problem with people running for school board, but if you do not educate yourself on issues facing the school district of today, why run? How do you NEVER attend, yet put your name on a ballot?

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I bring independent thinking, accountability, knowledge and experience and NO political funding. I will always vote my conscience and do what is right for all children. I had stellar attendance record during my tenure on the BOE. I bring dedicated proven leadership along with my running mate, Ellen Reese.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you will be effective on the school board?

Being involved in all New Jersey School Boards Workshops that are provided for learning experience. During the time I served on the BOE, I received certifications which included Certified Board Member, Master Board Member and Certified Board Leader. Unlike some of the board members that never had certifications.

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

I am an advocate for education. I believe every child has a chance to learn and be successful. I take being on the board very serious and being involved in the whole picture as a school board member, not just on Monday Board Meetings.

The best advice ever shared with me was
ALWAYS BELIEVE YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE OR SOMETHING AND NEVER EVER GIVE UP !!!!!!