Election 2023: Jill Waldbieser For Neshaminy School Board

Candidates running in the May 16 primary election are providing background about themselves and their positions on the issues to voters in these profiles, which will run in Patch individually for each candidate.

LANGHORNE, PA — Jill Waldbieser is running for a Region 2 seat on the Neshaminy School Board in the May 16 primary election.

Waldbieser seeks one of two, four-year terms against school board member Paul Saraullo, Ryan Tierney, and Beth Marshall. All four candidates have cross-filed to run on the Democratic and Republican tickets.

Biographical Information

Name: Jill Waldbieser

Age: 44

Town of residence: Langhorne

Position sought: School Board Director

Are you an incumbent? No

What Towns Does Your Position Cover? Lower Middletown Township, District 2

Party affiliation: Democratic/Republican

Family: A son, 8, who attended Neshaminy until his IEP sent him to the PA School for the Deaf last year, and a stepdaughter, 23.

Education: BA in journalism, Temple University

Occupation: Journalist who runs her own business

1. What are the top issues currently facing your position and how do you plan to address them?

The chief issue is, and should always be, maintaining academic standards and quality education for our students. Currently, that goal faces numerous challenges from political extremism, potential staffing shortages, and funding issues. Making sure the district's budget is well managed, particularly in light of possible changes to state funding, will be key, as will maintaining reason, moderation and collaboration among board members to represent the best interests of the district.

2 Identify specific goals or ideas you have to enhance life in your position:

I am not going into this position with pre-set ideas about what will work vs what won't. My goal is to learn as much as I can about the issues facing the district and the various opinions about solutions, then handle each challenge individually based on what will ultimately serve Neshaminy students and their parents best. I feel that is my responsibility as an elected official and public servant, and I will work with my fellow board members to achieve that goal.

3. What in your experience or background prepares you for election to office?

I have dealt with the Neshaminy School District extensively since my son began attending in 2020, particularly with the special education services because my son has an IEP. Our experience was really positive, and I'd like to see all students have equally positive experiences. I am also a member of the Middletown Township Human Resources Commission. In addition, I've been a reporter for 20 years and am great at researching solutions to problems, working collaboratively, and communicating effectively. Having run my own successful business for the past five years, I also know the ins and outs of budgeting and other essentials for properly handling funds for the district. Most of all, I conduct myself with integrity and honesty in all aspects of my life and work.