Hillsborough School Board Election 2023: Pritpal S. Phanda

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough's general election on Nov. 7 has four candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.

Pritpal S. Phanda is running for one of the three, three-year seats. Opposing candidates include Cassandra Kragh, and incumbents Paul Marini and Cynthia "Cindy" DeCavalcante Nurse.

Are you running for office in Hillsborough? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at alexis.tarrazi@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Hillsborough Patch.

Pritpal S. Phanda

Age: 64+

Town of residence: Hillsborough

Position sought: Board of Education

Family: Married (2 Children)

Education: BS (Engineering)-CUNY: MS - SUNY

Occupation: Financial Services (Legacy Planning)

Previous or current elected appointed office: N/A

Campaign website: N/A

Why are you seeking election for the Hillsborough Board of Education?

I am doing so for several reasons. I believe that our children are our most precious asset. I believe that we have to do our very best to provide them with an excellent platform to succeed in this competitive world. I believe that in this acute fiscal environment, we need to revisit every program and support structure to optimize returns and enhance benefits for our children.

In the last 15 years or so that I have lived in Hillsborough, I have not received any communication asking me for any input into any police or operational issue. I want to change that.

Every Hillsborough resident with or without a child in school should be solicited for their opinion.

The referendum will go up for a vote in November. Are you in favor of this? Why or why not?

N/A

Transportation is a statewide issue. Do you feel transportation issues are being handled well by the Board? Why or why not? If not, how do you propose improving it?

I believe it is being handled as best as it can be, however as a policy matter, I would motivate the board to schedule a thorough review with parental input of problem issues. I would have our operational personnel try and meet our expectations.

Security at schools remains a high priority. Are you happy with the district's security plan for students and staff? If not, what would be your alternative?

Security and safety of our children is a very high priority and a constant review of the protocol in place has to be done. I believe it currently satisfactory but constant review with an eye for improvement is necessary.

What other issues do you feel need to be tackled on the school board?

I believe in setting easy and simple systems for parents and other residents to vocalize concerns. That will empower the board to tackle issues more effectively. I am not aware of any other particular issue at the moment.

What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?

I believe Success comes before Work, in the dictionary. I have experience in Financial sector and bring fiscal astuteness to the table. I believe in working together and building a consensus for an effective decision.

What else would you like to share about yourself or your campaign?

I have lived here for many years. I believe that an excellent school system is a winning proposition for the township. Excellent schools are what attract home buyers. Our township authorities are doing a great job in managing services and an excellent school system is what can supplement that. It is a win win way to go. If your beliefs are in sync with mine - Vote for me. I will endeavor to deliver.