Tuesday evening, April 20, from 2 to 9 p.m. could be a crucial moment in Hoboken's future. At that time, Hoboken will be going to the polls to choose three new members for the Board of Education. I am asking you to vote for just two of the seven candidates - Elizabeth Markevitch, Row 1 and Paul Condon, Row 2.
Why just two? The Election is structured as a free for all. If conventional wisdom is correct and the two incumbents are a lock to get re-elected, then voting for a third challenger just reduces the chances that Paul or Liz will get the open seat. If the incumbents are replaced - generally a good thing given the record of the schools - then casting a third vote jut increases the chances that another candidate does the replacing. Why Liz and Paul? Because they are both concerned parents with a commitment to make the schools work for the kids, not the politicians. They are running as true independents, even from each other, not as part of either of the two intertwined 'slates.' They support raising achievement by raising standards and giving our kids the support they need to reach those standards. They believe in hiring and promoting the most qualified, not the most connected. They will hire professionals based on the contribution they can make to the schools, not the contributions they've made to political campaigns. They support creating open space for recreation, and oppose harming the schools with tax abatements on luxury housing.
Since 1955 the schools have been controlled by the various political factions, and while enrollment and test scores continue to fall, the cost just increases - a total of $46.6 Million divided among 2,406 students. (The reported cost per student of $13,152 is after stripping away the cost of programs the school district is not required to include.) Our schools are failing our children, and our so-called leaders look to the schools for what they can get, not what they can do.
There are other candidates who are fine people, but given the current state of the schools, and Hudson County politics in general, it is time for new educational leaders of unquestioned independence and integrity. If Paul and Liz are elected, I may not always agree with what they do, but I'll never need to question their motives, or wonder who is pulling their strings. Sad to say but on the Hoboken Board of Education that would be a major change for the better.
On April 20th let's give the political wirepullers a one-two punch. Please join me in making time that evening to elect Elizabeth Markevitch and Paul Condon to the Hoboken Board of Education.
Councilwoman Carol Marsh
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