PARSIPPANY, NJ — With Election Day approaching, Patch is putting together a series of candidate profiles so readers can learn more about who is on their ballot.
Nicole DellaFave is a corporate finance manager and BOE incumbent who is running to keep one of three available seats on the Parsippany Board of Education.
Patch asked candidates to share some information about themselves and asked identical questions to all candidates.
See DellaFave's responses below:
Questions
1. Why are you running for this position?
I firmly believe the foundation of our society is a strong public education system. I am running for a seat on the Board of Education because I have experience as an educator in Parsippany, experience as a current parent of students attending the school system, and I also have experience now in the private sector. I feel I am qualified to fill this position from many angles and have a deep passion for education. We need thoughtful and logical people to lead the school district.
2. What do you believe to be the most pressing issue in the school district, and what do you intend to do about it if elected?
Apart from the elephant in the room of the budget cycle, the most pressing issue in the school district is the age of our facilities. Currently, we are undergoing a survey of the buildings to get a well-rounded and data-based list as to what and how we can upgrade.
If elected, I will push the administration and help facilitate communication with the town and residents as to the needs and how we are going to make the necessary changes happen. I will also be advocating at the state level for legislation that can help our district offset costs by making the township give some revenue to us for any PILOT programs, as well as change the current school funding formula.
3. What qualifications and qualities do you possess that make you best suited for the position?
As stated prior, I have a background in education. I taught right here in the Parsippany Schools for 17+ years as a 4th and 5th grade teacher at Lake Hiawatha Elementary. I am also a very involved parent, having served on the PTA and various Booster clubs, and now I have background knowledge in business with respect to internal finance and HR. My educational knowledge, specifically from this district, is paramount to a functioning board member. I believe I can bring a sense of common sense and logic when reviewing policy, as well as ask the right questions of the administration.
4. What role do you believe parents should have in decisions about curriculum, school policies, and their children's education?
Parents need to provide a supportive role in their child's education. They need to be knowledgeable about what is being taught in the schools, as well as what policies are being made. I believe a parent is their child's best advocate. I also believe that educators have expertise in the field. Both parties are stakeholders in the children's education and need to work together to create a cohesive and caring learning environment.
5. In a few words, what is your favorite thing about your school district/community?
My favorite thing about this school and community is the diversity we have, and no matter how "large" Parsippany is, it still feels like a small town! Having lived here for 40 years, and now raising a family here, it's wonderful to see how many of us Parsippany kids came back to the town. I think that speaks to what a special place this is.
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Election Day is Nov. 3
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