Toms River School Board Election 2020: Ashley Palmiere

TOMS RIVER, NJ — When voters go to the polls Nov. 3, they will be asked to choose three people to serve on the Toms River Regional Board of Education.

There are nine people seeking those three seats, which are three-year 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 Ashley Palmiere, who is running under the Toms River 1st slogan. Her running mates are Lisa Contessa and Ken Londregan.

Previous elective office, if any:

I have not had the opportunity to serve on the Toms River BOE or in local politics. However I have served in various leadership positions and volunteered with many local nonprofits. I am excited to offer my resources to the school board.

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

I do not have any family members involved in the Toms River Board of Education or involved in politics.

Education

Bachelor's of Science — Philadelphia University; NJ State Board Licensed Cosmetologist

Occupation

Pretty Things Florals & Decor - Owner & Designer - 2016- Present
Sniptease Salon & Spa - Director & Top Level Stylist - 2014 -Present
Native Floral - Floral Sales Manager & Merchandiser - 2005- Present
Hometown Heroes 501c3 - Project Manager - 2015/2016

Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?

I am seeking a seat on the school board so that I may be a voice for Toms River and fight to save the programs we as a community value most. As a parent, I was appalled when the school board gave raises to administration and bonuses to the superintendent at the very same time they were cutting programs, teachers and extracurricular activities. I want to put the interests of our students, teachers, parents, and coaches first. I want to put Toms River 1st.

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

The most pressing issue facing our district is the threat to our teachers' jobs, and our students programs. Our community is suffering losses that impact our students and teachers while our taxes continue to rise and our administration accepts bonuses and raises. I plan to offer every possible solution to these issues and help relieve Toms River of these stressors. Quite simply, I intend to put Toms River 1st.

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

I am a young, vibrant professional and a small business owner. I am a homeowner and taxpayer in this community. I am both a classically educated business woman and a free-thinking artist. This gives me a unique perspective and the ability to identify with every member of this community, and I want to be their voice. I am not a career politician looking to serve myself. My work and life experiences have produced the perfect storm of keen business acumen, risk mitigation skills, and diverse thinking that Toms River needs fighting for them.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I am part of the "Toms River 1st" team, comprised of myself and two other candidates, Lisa Contessa and Ken Londregan. The main issues defining our campaign are a safe return to school for the children and teachers in our district. The fight for our fair share of tax dollars. Balancing our budget and minimizing the impact on students, teachers, and taxpayers. Saving programs like athletics and arts that are in danger of being cut.

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

If I was to narrow down accomplishments in my past that I feel demonstrate my abilities, my experience in project management for local nonprofits would be at the top of the list. I created many events both large and small, coordinating the involvement of community members and the support of both large and small businesses to make these events successful. The assembly of these plans encompass many fine details and moving parts that require the highest level of focus and commitment. I have the ability to assemble strong teams, motivate volunteers, adhere to strict timelines and legal guidelines, always producing a winning outcome. I have handled many sensitive issues in high stress situations with empathy, dignity, and class. I am an effective problem-solver with a strong moral compass. When the phone rang I had to be prepared to handle anything; Sandy victims, homelessness, citizens in complete despair, or maybe someone wanting to donate something helpful. I have had to create networks between major corporations, government agencies, other charities, and individual citizens. I figured out how to make big things happen on little budgets. Some stories were happy, some sad, but either way I would show up, help out, and support this community. This is why I know I will offer a wealth of experience and resources to the board.

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

I am Toms River graduate. I am a taxpayer, homeowner, and parent. I am running for this position to serve Toms River, not to serve myself. My heart is in this for the right reasons. I have nothing to lose, and a better school system to gain for everyone. I am doing this for my child and yours. I am fighting for my son, and his teachers, my neighbors, friends, and fellow citizens. I am rallying behind a town that I believe truly deserves better. My goal is to put Toms River 1st and I am taking action to do my part for this community.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

I have been lucky to be the beneficiary of some amazing advice throughout my life, but the best would have to be: The way someone behaves is a reflection of their character, and the way you respond is a reflection of yours. You can always make more money, but you can never make more time, make yours count.