Meet The Candidate: Michelle King For Lawrence Township BOE

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ —Seven candidates have thrown their hats in the ring in hopes of filling three open seats on the Lawrence Township Board of Education.

Incumbent Michelle King is seeking re-election. A college professor, King is keen on implementing the "bold Strategic Plan" adopted by the district in Spring 2022. An educator for 20 years, King said she is perfect for the job as she knows about the "best practices in school districts throughout New Jersey."

(All candidates were given the same questions. Answers are candidates' own.)

Editor's Note: Patch sent out the questionnaire to each candidate's email address provided by the County clerk's office. All responses received will be published between now and Nov. 8 general election. Local candidates who did not receive the questionnaire from Patch can contact sarah.salvadore@patch.com.

Name: Michelle King

Age: 58

Town of residence: Lawrenceville

Position sought: Lawrence Township School Board

Family: I have been married to Charlie King for 32 years. We have 5 daughters ages 28, 26, 24, 19, and 17.

Education: Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Pennsylvania

Occupation: College Professor

Previous or current elected appointed office: Lawrence Township School Board

Campaign website: https://evanskingandsantos.com/

Why are you seeking to run for School Board?

I want to help implement the bold Strategic Plan developed by the school board and district administration and adopted in the spring of 2022.

COVID-19 resulted in learning loss for many students. What will you do to ensure students bounce back?

Academic achievement is one of our three primary goals. With collection and analysis of the most assessment data we have on our students, the district is prepared to implement instructional plans and provide additional support to insure great strides in academic achievement.

What is your view on the sex education curriculum that Gov. Murphy put forth earlier this year?

The NJ State Standards on sex education, as a part of the health and physical education curriculum are no different than any other state standards. NJ school districts are required to establish curriculum guides and supply teachers with the resources needed to meet the standards. To the extent that parents are concerned about the instruction their child is receiving, parents ought to direct their questions to the classroom teacher. parents are able to opt their child out of specific sex education that they disagree with.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I am a local educational professional, aware of current best practices in school districts throughout New Jersey and have been a teacher educator for 20 years.

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

Lawrence Township school district was intentional about the development of their strategic plan and involved all stakeholders in the development. It is time to enact the plan with fidelity and accountability.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com