Lacey Township School Board Election 2026: Kerry Opitz

LACEY, NJ — Election Day is Nov. 3, and Lacey residents will head to the polls to have their say in local, school board, county and state elections.

Ahead of the 2026 election, Patch will be publishing profiles on local candidates. Here's what Lacey Township Board of Education candidate Kerry Opitz had to say.

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Editor's Note: Patch sent out emails to all candidates to the email addresses listed for their campaign provided to the office of the clerk. The responses received will be published between now and the Nov. 3 general election. These responses will be published edited only for style. Candidates who would like to participate but did not receive one (for whatever reason) can contact veronica.flesher@patch.com.

Name: Kerry Opitz

Age: 40

Education: Lacey Township High School, Class of 2004; Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Kean University

Occupation: Manager of Productivity & Benchmarking – Hackensack Meridian Health

Family: Married to my husband, Rob, for twelve years. We have three children in the Lacey Township School District: Sage (10), Sofia (8), and Alex (5).

What drove you to seek public office?

I became interested in the Board of Education when my oldest daughter started elementary school in 2020. I began educating myself by researching BOE policies, watching board meetings, and learning more about how the district operates. I felt it was important to get involved and have a voice in the decisions that affect our schools.

What qualifications and experience do you have that make you a good fit for this role?

I bring a background in accounting, financial analysis, and auditing to the board. Since being appointed to the BOE in January 2026, I've also gained firsthand experience with the responsibilities of board service. I take the role seriously, do my due diligence, and am comfortable asking questions when something needs a closer look.

What sets you apart from other candidates?

I'm a Lacey graduate, a lifelong resident, and a parent with three children currently in our schools. I have a personal stake in the decisions being made, but I also bring a professional background that allows me to look at those decisions through a financial and operational lens. I believe both perspectives are important when making decisions for our district.

What is the most pressing issue facing the Lacey Township School District?

Balancing the needs of our students and staff with the financial realities facing the district.

If elected, what will your top priority be?

I feel I have more to contribute and would like the opportunity to continue building on what I've learned during my time on the board. I'd like to keep advocating for our students and staff, ask the questions that need to be asked, and help make thoughtful decisions that benefit our schools and community.

What is your favorite thing about living in Lacey?

Lacey has always been home. I grew up here, went to school here, and now I'm raising my own children here. I love our beautiful parks, the water, and the small-town feel of our community. There's something special about being able to raise my family in the same town that has always been home to me.