Mahwah Board of Education Candidate Profile: Christopher Hughes

MAHWAH, NJ — Candidates are set for the Mahwah Board of Education race on the Nov. 8 ballot.

In anticipation, Patch sent questionnaires to each of the four candidates vying for the three open seats on the Board of Education, asking them to share facts about themselves and why voters should choose them to represent the township's school district.

Christopher Hughes, the lone newcomer, is seeking to unseat one of three incumbents running for re-election.

Here are Hughes' responses:

Name:

Christopher Hughes

Age:

24

Town of residence:

Mahwah

Position sought:

Trustee of the Mahwah Board of Education

Party affiliation:

Mahwah BOE Elections are Non-Partisan

Family:

Mom, Dad and two brothers—all residents of Mahwah

Education:

BA in Political Science from Ramapo College

Occupation:

Physical Fitness Instructor

Why are you running for this office?

I am running for the Board of Education because I want to bring diversity of opinion, new ideas and perspectives, and stand up for those who feel unheard. I believe in our school district and am confident I can support its success by adding a new voice to the Board.

What do you feel is the most important issue facing constituents, and what do you intend to do to repair or resolve it?

The most important issue facing constituents are the numerous distractions that detract from the primary focus of school, which is academics. Regardless of the path a student chooses after graduation, they should be well versed in all core subjects, civics, and work ethic. In order for Mahwah to maintain its great reputation, we must focus on academics and high expectations. This can be achieved by reprioritizing the academic curriculum (not social curriculum) and the school day as whole to focus on core subjects and structured, undistracted learning. This could be remedied by engaging in SEL activities during lunch, recess, health or homeroom time and not during important teaching time. Distractions caused by disciplinary issues should also be addressed immediately and not be allowed to shut down an entire class or become a long-term problem. We are fortunate to have an excellent guidance department and multiple staff members who are fully engaged in making sure our students' mental and emotional health is a top priority. Let's utilize those resources outside of the classroom and give those students the best chance of improving while allowing the lessons of the day to be carried on for the rest of the class.

What differentiates you from other candidates?

I am a graduate of Mahwah High School and am able to view recent changes through the lens of someone who attended k through 12 in this district. I see my age as an asset—I have real world experience with the damaging effect of covid lockdowns and changing cultural norms on young adults. I also had a very positive experience in the Mahwah Schools and can compare what my day looked like to what is the current reality for today’s students.

What other issues or ideas do you feel deserve attention?

--Addressing learning loss caused by excessive school closures, half days and remote learning
--Enforcing discipline and structure in the classroom to cut down on the distractions that further contribute to learning loss
--Keeping our students physically safe on campus from outside threats, at all times --Controversial curriculum in all areas of study, not just CHPE Curriculum
--More immersive studies in foreign language at a young age (with offerings in more than one language) and a deeper focus on civic responsibility

What accomplishments in your past demonstrates that you are the best candidate for this job?

Simply put, I’m a graduate and product of the Mahwah Public Schools.

Do you want to tell voters anything else about you or your positions?

It is important for residents to know there is a Trustee who is listening to their concerns and will stand up for their values. There are many Mahwah voters who don't feel they are being represented. If elected I will work with the Board whenever possible to achieve the most beneficial outcome, but I will not shy away from respectfully disagreeing or being the one dissenting vote.