Election 2023: Wayne School Board Candidate Don Pavlak

WAYNE, NJ — In the 2023 general election, residents in Wayne will be voting for state, county, and township officials, as well as the local school board. Patch has asked candidates in contested races to answer profiles about their campaigns.

Early voting begins Oct. 28 in Wayne and across New Jersey, for the general election Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Here is the candidate profile of Don Pavlak, candidate for Wayne Township School Board trustee and the current board president.

Editor's Note: Patch sent out emails to all candidates to the email addresses listed for their campaign provided to the county clerk’s office. The responses received will be published between now and the Nov. 7 general election. Local candidates who would like to participate but did not receive one (for whatever reason) can contact Michelle.Rotuno-Johnson@patch.com.

Name: Don Pavlak

Age: 62

Town of residence: Lifelong Wayne Resident

Position sought: Trustee Wayne Board of Education

Family information: Barbara (spouse) Samantha and Katherine (daughters)

Education: Bachelor of Education William Paterson University, Bachelor of Science Jersey City University, Master’s Degree Human Resource Management, Seton Hall University, E.Ds. Educational Leadership Seton Hall University

Occupation: Retired Wayne Police Officer, 34 years of Services, Teacher of Criminal Justice, and Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice

Have you held any elected or appointed offices before? If so, what are they?
Trustee Wayne Board of Education

Why are you running for this position (or running for re-election if you are an incumbent)?

As a candidate for reelection to the Wayne Board of Education, and I would like to take this opportunity to share with you why I am seeking your support for another term in this vital role.
First and foremost, my dedication to education has been a lifelong commitment. As a teacher and adjunct professor in the field of criminal justice, I have had the privilege of shaping the minds of our youth and guiding them toward brighter futures. This experience has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within our education system.

During my tenure on the Wayne Board of Education, I have worked diligently to ensure that our students receive the highest quality education possible. I have advocated for policies that prioritize student success, academic excellence, and the well-being of our educators. I firmly believe that every child in Wayne deserves access to a world-class education that equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Furthermore, I am deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment. Our community is rich with different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, and I believe it is our duty to celebrate and embrace this diversity in our schools. By promoting inclusivity and equity, we can provide every student with a fair and equal chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Over the years, I have also demonstrated fiscal responsibility in managing the district's resources. I understand the importance of balancing the budget while ensuring that our schools have the necessary tools and resources to deliver an exceptional education.

As we face the challenges of the future, including the evolving landscape of education and the impact of technological advancements, I am committed to staying at the forefront of these issues. I will continue to work collaboratively with fellow board members, parents, educators, and the community to make informed decisions that benefit our students and prepare them for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.

In seeking your support for reelection, I pledge to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and excellence in education. My experience as a teacher and professor, coupled with my dedication to our community, has prepared me to continue serving as your trustee on the Wayne Board of Education. I humbly ask for your vote so that together, we can continue to provide a world-class education for our children and ensure a bright future for the Wayne community.

What sets you apart from other candidates?

As a candidate seeking reelection to the Wayne Board of Education, it's essential to address what sets me apart from other candidates. While I respect and appreciate the dedication of all those who are willing to serve, I believe my unique combination of experience, community ties, and a deep commitment to educational excellence distinguishes me as the ideal candidate for this important role.

Lifelong Residency and Wayne School Product: I am a lifelong resident of Wayne and a product of our exceptional school system. This unique perspective means I have a profound understanding of our community's values, needs, and aspirations. I have personally experienced the quality of education our schools offer, and I am committed to maintaining and enhancing it for future generations.

Educational Expertise: My background as both a teacher and an adjunct professor in the field of criminal justice has given me a comprehensive understanding of education from both sides of the classroom. I am well-versed in the pedagogical and administrative aspects of education, allowing me to make informed decisions that directly benefit our students and educators.

Commitment to Inclusivity and Equity: I am deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment in Wayne. Our community is diverse, and I believe it's imperative that our schools reflect and celebrate this diversity. I have consistently advocated for policies that ensure every student has an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Financial Responsibility: I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility in managing the district's resources. Balancing the budget while ensuring our schools have the necessary tools and resources is crucial. I have a track record of making fiscally sound decisions that prioritize the educational needs of our students.

Experience as an Incumbent: My experience as an incumbent board member has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges facing our district. I've built strong relationships with fellow board members, educators, parents, and community members, enabling me to work collaboratively and effectively to address these challenges.

Vision for the Future: I have a forward-looking vision for our schools, one that prepares our students for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. I am committed to staying at the forefront of educational advancements and adapting our strategies to meet the evolving needs of our students.

My lifelong ties to Wayne, educational expertise, commitment to inclusivity, fiscal responsibility, and experience as an incumbent board member make me uniquely qualified to serve as your trustee on the Wayne Board of Education. I humbly ask for your support and your vote to continue the work of providing a world-class education for our children and ensuring a bright future for the Wayne community.

As a Wayne Township Board of Public Education member, what would be your main priority and/or focus?

If reelected to the Wayne Board of Education, my main priority will be to continue advancing the quality of education in our district while ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Specifically, my primary focus will revolve around the following key areas:

Academic Excellence: My foremost goal is to maintain and enhance the academic excellence that Wayne schools are known for. This includes supporting rigorous and engaging curriculum development, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and regularly assessing student performance to identify areas for improvement.

Student Well-being: The physical and emotional well-being of our students is of utmost importance. I will advocate for comprehensive mental health services and support systems to ensure that every student has the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally.

Teacher and Staff Support: Our dedicated educators play a vital role in shaping the future of our students. I will prioritize supporting our teachers and staff with competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a positive working environment to attract and retain the best educators.

Fiscal Responsibility: I will continue to ensure that the district's financial resources are managed responsibly. This involves making prudent budgetary decisions that balance the needs of our schools with the realities of our financial constraints.

Technology Integration: In today's digital age, it's essential to integrate technology effectively into our classrooms. I will work to provide students and educators with access to cutting-edge technology and support the development of digital literacy skills.

Community Engagement: Building strong partnerships between schools and the community is essential for the success of our district. I will actively engage with parents, community members, and local businesses to ensure that our schools are closely aligned with the needs and aspirations of our community.

Future-Readiness: The world is changing rapidly, and our students need to be prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. I will advocate for programs that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability to equip our students with the skills they need for success in a rapidly evolving world.

My main priority as a trustee on the Wayne Board of Education will be to provide a well-rounded, inclusive, and future-ready education for our students while ensuring the well-being and support of our dedicated educators. I am committed to the continued success of our schools and the prosperity of the Wayne community.

What does the district need to do to assure that today’s preschoolers (the class of 2038) are prepared for the future?

Preparing today's preschoolers, who will be the graduating class of 2038, for the future requires a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach. As a candidate for reelection to the Wayne Board of Education, I am committed to working with my fellow board members and the administration on implementing the following strategies to ensure their readiness:

Early Childhood Education Investment: Recognizing that the early years are crucial for cognitive and social development, I will advocate for increased investment in high-quality early childhood education programs. This includes expanding access to preschool programs that focus on play-based learning, social-emotional development, and early literacy skills.

STEAM Education: To prepare students for a future where technology and innovation are paramount, I will support the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education into the curriculum from an early age. This will foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Digital Literacy: In an increasingly digital world, digital literacy is essential. I will work to ensure that preschoolers have age-appropriate exposure to technology, emphasizing responsible and safe internet use. This will lay the foundation for their digital skills development.

Focus on Social-Emotional Learning: Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills are crucial for success in the future workforce. I will advocate for the inclusion of social-emotional learning (SEL) programs in preschool curricula to help children develop self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication skills.

Customized Learning Pathways: Recognizing that each child is unique, I will support personalized learning pathways. This approach allows teachers to tailor instruction to individual needs and interests, ensuring that every child progresses at their own pace.

Parent and Community Engagement: Building strong partnerships between schools, parents, and the community is essential. I will work to engage parents and caregivers in their child's education, providing resources and support to extend learning beyond the classroom.

Professional Development for Educators: To ensure that teachers are equipped with the latest pedagogical approaches and technology skills, I will advocate for ongoing professional development opportunities. Well-trained educators are key to providing a high-quality education.

Assessment and Adaptation: Regular assessment of student progress will be crucial. We will use data-driven insights to adapt teaching methods and curricula, ensuring that preschoolers are on track to meet future educational milestones.

Preparing today's preschoolers for the class of 2038 demands a holistic approach that addresses academic, social, and technological aspects of their development. As a trustee on the Wayne Board of Education, I am dedicated to collaborating with my colleagues in advocating for these initiatives and ensuring that every child in our district has the best possible start on their educational journey towards a successful future.

What is your view on the potential referendum in 2024, and what are any construction projects you think the district should prioritize?

The potential referendum in 2024 represents a significant opportunity for our district to address pressing issues related to infrastructure, increased enrollment, and safety concerns. As a candidate for reelection to the Wayne Board of Education, I believe that prioritizing the right construction projects is essential to ensure the long-term well-being of our students and the effectiveness of our educational programs.

Here are the key construction priorities:

Infrastructure Renovation and Modernization: It is imperative that we address the aging infrastructure of our school buildings, many of which were constructed in the 1970s. To provide a safe, comfortable, and conducive learning environment, we should prioritize comprehensive renovation and modernization projects. This includes updating heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, electrical systems, plumbing, and ensuring ADA compliance.

Additional Classroom Space: With the anticipated increase in enrollment and ongoing population growth, addressing the shortage of classroom space is vital. We should consider building new classrooms or expanding existing facilities to accommodate the growing student population. This will help alleviate overcrowding and ensure that each student has access to an optimal learning environment.

Safety Enhancements: The safety of our students and staff is of paramount importance. We should prioritize safety enhancements, such as the installation of new bleachers and ensuring ADA compliance.

In what ways do you think Wayne Township schools excel? And, where is there room for improvement?

Wayne Township schools, like many educational institutions, have both areas of excellence and areas where improvement is possible. Our district has reason to take pride in the performance of its public schools, particularly Wayne Valley and Wayne Hills High Schools. These schools have received recognition and commendation for their educational excellence, as evidenced by their rankings in the 2020 Best High School Rankings by US News and World Report.

Areas of Excellence:

Diverse Educational Programs: Wayne Township schools have made strides in offering a wide range of educational programs to cater to students with diverse interests and learning needs. This includes honors and advanced placement (AP) courses, as well as programs for special education students, providing opportunities for individualized learning.

Extracurricular Activities: Many Wayne Township schools have robust extracurricular offerings, including sports, arts, music, and clubs. These activities help students develop skills beyond academics, foster teamwork, and provide a well-rounded educational experience.

Community Engagement: Wayne Township schools often maintain strong ties with the local community. Community involvement in schools can lead to enhanced resources, support, and opportunities for students.

Professional Development: The district has shown a commitment to providing ongoing professional development for teachers. This investment in educators can lead to improved teaching methods and student outcomes.

Areas for Improvement:

Resource Allocation: One challenge facing Wayne Township schools, like many public school districts, is resource allocation. Ensuring that schools have sufficient funding and resources can be an ongoing concern.

Achievement Gaps: Addressing achievement gaps among students is a common challenge. This includes disparities in academic performance among different demographic groups. Developing strategies to close these gaps is essential for equitable education.

Technology Integration: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of technology in education. Ensuring equitable access to technology and effective integration of digital tools into the curriculum is an ongoing priority.

Teacher Retention: Attracting and retaining high-quality educators can be a challenge. Providing competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment is crucial.

Infrastructure and Facilities: Maintaining and upgrading school facilities is an ongoing concern for many school districts. Ensuring that students have safe and conducive learning environments is essential.

Curriculum Adaptation: Given the evolving nature of education and the demands of the 21st century, Wayne Township schools may need to continually adapt their curriculum to ensure that students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Our schools exhibit both strengths and areas for growth, reflecting the broader educational landscape. Addressing these areas of improvement while sustaining and building upon their areas of excellence will be instrumental in providing a high-quality education for all students in the district. The commitment to ongoing evaluation and enhancement will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Wayne Township schools.

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

More info on election deadlines and early voting

For new voters, New Jersey’s deadline to register for the Nov. 7 election is Oct. 17. This is also the deadline for people who need to update their registration to change their name or their address on their voter record.

In-person early voting for the general election will be Oct. 28-Nov. 5. Hours will be Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. The Wayne location is Wayne Main Library, at 461 Valley Road.

If you are already registered to vote and want to check your registration status or see where your polling place is, you can do so online.

Any New Jersey voter may apply for a vote-by-mail ballot by completing the application and returning it to their county clerk's office.

Then, they may return it by mail, in a secure ballot drop box, or at the county Board of Elections office.

All 40 of New Jersey’s legislative districts also have elections this year for state Senate and General Assembly seats. A full list of state Senate and General Assembly candidates is on the state’s website.

Related articles:

• School Board Elections 2023: See Who Filed To Run In Wayne Township
• Wayne Election 2023: See Council Candidates Who Filed To Run
• Elections 2023: See Who Filed To Run For Passaic County Offices