Election critical for Upper Dublin School Board

On Tuesday, November 3rd, five seats for the Upper Dublin School Board are in contention, and for good reason. While incumbents paint a flowery picture of their past performance, Upper Dublin residents have awakened to problems within the current board. Foremost is a whopping 90+% tax increase over the past 14 years while neighboring districts like Wissahickon have needed only a fraction of that number. Yes, Upper Dublin ranks in the top tier of all school districts in Pennsylvania, but over the past two years our rank has consistently dropped. Even more troublesome are the findings of a survey that uncovered significant communications problem throughout our schools. The fact that this board only began to take action after those findings were released illustrates a disconnect between the incumbent directors and township stakeholders. Even the perennial school calendar, used for years by homes with children in township schools as well as by other township families to highlight activities is missing in action. Now we learn our board is considering redistricting the elementary schools, possibly removing the neighborhood learning centers families have come to depend on for as long as one can remember.

Upper Dublin Republicans believe we can and must do better, and must put our children first. Many of our opponent’s current “talking points” had not even reached residents homes until our candidates, along with other Democrats, challenged them in the primary election. So this November 3rd, we are asking you, the residents of Upper Dublin, to help. Simply, it is time for a change. Our slate of candidates, Nancy Marsden, Joe Koenig, Brendan Campbell, Martha Toll and Rob Rosenthal envision a new and better approach, with transparent and open meetings, a true long term facilities plan, and significant input from not only parents but non-transparent taxpayers as well through scheduled town hall meetings and new technologies. Our candidates will work in a non-partisan way to make Upper Dublin schools better while stewarding the resources granted by the community.

We are sad our opponents declined to participate in the school board candidates forum sponsored by the Maple Glen Community Association. At the event, our candidates candidly fielded questions posed by both the MGCA as well as audience members, and shared what they see as the future of our schools. It is shameful voters were not given the opportunity to hear a robust debate of the issues facing our community and the plans each candidate has to address them.

We hope you will take a few moments to examine the problems Upper Dublin schools face and learn about all the candidates. Examine their qualifications, experience and their passion to serve. Speak with your neighbors. Also, please consider our outstanding candidate for township commissioner in ward one, Liz Ferry. Liz is the best choice to represent ward one at the Commissioner’s table. Finally, Upper Dublin resident Steve Heckman is seeking your vote to become Judge for the Court of Common Pleas. Steve is clearly the most qualified candidate on the ballot. We have worked very hard to present an outstanding slate of candidates to you.

No matter who you decide to vote for, your vote will make a difference on November 3rd, but only if you go to the polls! Please take a few moments and exercise the most powerful right we have, the ability to choose our leaders. Upper Dublin belongs to each of us. This election we urge you to examine the candidates and vote for the best person regardless of party affiliation.

I promise to you that Upper Dublin Republicans will continue to work to make our township better for you and your family. I appreciate hearing from you with your thoughts and concerns. Email me at jcoupejr@upperdublingop.org. Lets all work together for a better Upper Dublin.

Many Thanks!

John P. (Jack) Coupe, Jr.

Chairman

Upper Dublin Republican Committee