Manchester School Board Election 2021: George J. Cervenak III

MANCHESTER, NJ — When voters go to the polls Nov. 2, they will be asked to choose people to serve on the Manchester Township Board of Education.

There are four people seeking two seats, which are three-year unpaid terms on the board.

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.

Here are the answers from George J. Cervenak III, who is running under the slogan "Education is Key".

Previous elective office, if any:

BOE member

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

No

Education

Bachelors in Science - Rutgers University. Masters in Educational Leadership - Kean University

Occupation

Middle School Mathematics Teacher

Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?

Because of my background in education, I know that I can continue to work collaboratively with the current board and be an effective advocate and voice for students and parents, support district staff, and keep public education safe and healthy. I am seeking re-election to the Manchester BOE because I want to continue to work with the school board on its path to maintaining and improving our district during these ever-changing times.

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

As with most schools, the most pressing issue is funding. As we have learned during this pandemic, children deserve to have schools that are adequately funded so their academic needs can be met for their success. I will continue to work with the board to fight for what our children need.

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

Just like the other candidates, I am passionate about ensuring that our children have the best possible education so they can achieve success in whatever they pursue. I am different because I am seeking re-election so that my work with the Manchester BOE can continue. My journey on the board has just begun and I want to ensure that our students will continue on their path to success

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Let me begin by stating that I am not a politician. I am running for the school board because I am a concerned parent and educator who wants to ensure the health, safety, and educational achievement of the students in our district. I want our district to receive adequate funding so that our children can receive the best possible education and be prepared for their future. In order for our children to succeed we must continue to improve achievement in ELA and mathematics, make sure that district tests align with the curriculum, and educate students with the philosophy that they must take their education seriously. Another concern that I have is the establishment of a more open communication between the board, staff, students, parents, and the community. If I have learned anything during this pandemic, it is that our lives had become so busy and there were not enough hours in the day. Parents were attending school functions, sporting events, conferences, and community meetings. Parents were often forced to trade off one event for another, myself included. Just because parents do not attend board meetings does not mean they do not care. Parents care and need board members to represent them when everyday responsibilities do not permit them to attend meetings. We must continue to improve our community involvement and ensure parents' concerns are heard.

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

After spending more than a decade in education, I have extensive experience with effective communication with parents, building a rapport and creating a safe, trusting environment for
my students, advocating for my students, listening and making sure that I understand their concerns, collaborating in order to achieve the best possible outcomes, adaptability (because we know even the best plans have obstacles), empathy, and patience.

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

For those who know me, they know that I am a hard worker and an advocate for what is best for the kids. Previously, I have been involved with Manchester Little League as a coach, Manchester Youth Football and Cheer as a coach, webmaster, and board president. In addition, I have had one child graduate from Manchester and three who are still in Manchester Schools.