On Tuesday, Nov. 6, residents of Robbinsville have another unique opportunity to provide a better pathway to educate our children with their Board of Education votes on Election Day.
As mayor, I have worked extremely hard to foster a more productive working relationship with the Robbinsville School District and the results have been evident.
–Passing of the 2012 referendum to expand and improve Sharon and Pond Road schools
–Unprecedented upgrades in security measures, including cameras at the RHS and a full-time resource officer in each building
–Two consecutive years without a school tax increase
–Stricter enforcement of ethics within the BOE
–Significant increase in state aid.
To that end, I am proud to endorse Vito Galluccio, Shaina Ciaccio, Craig Heilman and Lisa Temple for seats on the Robbinsville Board of Education Nov. 6.
An incumbent, Vito is extremely hard working and dedicated public servant who has served the board well with his honesty, ethics, extensive budget auditing skills and overall fiscal responsibility.
Mrs. Ciaccio is a passionate former BOE member and a devoted mother of two boys. Shaina is a tireless advocate for children and their well-being. Also an incumbent, Craig Heilman is a man of faith and family running unopposed. He has close to 25 years of experience with budgeting and finance resource management.
Another incumbent, Lisa Temple left the financial world after more than 12 years to focus on the education and welfare of her two young children in the district, and has provided a fresh voice on the BOE since being elected in November 2017.
Residents looking for school board members with a vested interested in moving the district forward can do so by choosing “Column J” on your ballot and the Ciaccio, Temple, Galluccio and Heilman slate for the Robbinsville Board of Education Nov. 6.
— Dave FriedThe author is mayor of Robbinsville Township.
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I am so grateful to have people like Shaina Rose Ciaccio running for the Robbinsville Board of Education. It is people like Shaina that make this community great. She is a committed wife and mother and passionate about our children and their education. I have raised three children in Robbinsville, although they are not in school anymore, my husband and I are planning to live in Robbinsville for many years. Thank you Shaina for all you do, dedicated people like you are what makes Robbinsville a great place to live and learn.
— Margaret Mandreucci
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I live here with my husband and three children so naturally this year’s school board elections are of great importance to me. When I think about what really needs to be addressed in our schools, there’s just so much animosity stemming from the district right now. It gets more toxic everyday, and that type of environment does not solve, grow, or create anything. We need to foster a more positive and community environment to solve the current issues in our school board. There is no candidate that embodies whole community growth more than Shaina Ciaccio.
She cares deeply about students, teachers, affluent residents, not so affluent residents, business owners, seniors, and everyone else in between. She knows that in order for our school system to thrive at its highest capacity we need to make decisions that the entire community can stand behind. She believes in the power of working together as a unit so much that she’s running with fellow candidates and slate mates Lisa Temple, Vito Galluccio, and Craig Heilman to further instill the teamwork mentality into their campaigns.
Her background with the N.J. Division of Child Protection and Permanency and previous school board stint make her qualified. What makes her perfect is she’s a mom, a resident and her husband’s family owns a business in Robbinsville, so she sees the current issues from multiple vantage points. Right now our community needs to come together before the divide gets to large to mend.
There is no doubt in my mind Shaina will bring about these types of positive attitudes and changes. I can’t think of a better or more powerful example to set with in our schools.
— Kerri Fox
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I had the privilege of serving on the Robbinsville BOE with Vincent Costanza for several years. I can say unequivocally that:
He puts children first. Always.
He is more knowledgeable in the field of education than anyone currently sitting on the BOE or running for a seat on the BOE.
He is not afraid to have a dissenting opinion and to clearly articulate the “why” behind his opinions. Yet, he remains to committed to executing against any final decisions made.
He has no political agenda.
Our district’s academic performance has declined in recent years. Our BOE has become more focused on themselves than our children. Robbinsville BOE needs someone who can contribute strongly and positively to what they are truly there to do which is to ensure the district is run entirely up to the standards our community has set which includes providing a safe environment, proper curriculum, and accountability amongst leadership.
Many of the “hot buttons” candidates are speaking about are minimum requirements for our district to run properly; e.g. safety, proper budget allocation, etc. There is no one more qualified than Vincent to serve as a key contributor to the academic challenges that our district faces and that we have been lacking in over these last few years.
— Keith Kochberg
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I have known Vincent Costanza for almost five years. I had the pleasure of meeting him at a Robbinsville school function when my daughter was in Kindergarten, and we were new in town. As my family settled in, I became friends with Vincent through mutual friends. Vincent has a daughter several years older than my daughter, and I often seek his advice, particularly when it comes to my daughter’s educational needs or if I have questions on the right people to speak within the district.
Vincent truly has a unique combination of interpersonal, educational and real-life experience, which clearly gives him an enormous advantage as an elected member of the Board of Education. I consider Vincent a great friend, colleague, and fellow father in the trenches. There is nobody I would trust more with helping to design the system that is supposed to nurture my daughter’s educational aspirations than Vincent.
— Jayson L. Amoroso
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The Robbinsville Board of Education is currently a crossroads. Important issues such as school security, board members’ ethics, teacher retention, and fiscal responsibility are at the forefront. It’s imperative that our elected officials represent all stakeholders while insuring that the school district is well run. The current board is clearly not aligned on every issue, which is not unusual or even a negative, as it’s important to consider that members have diverse backgrounds both professionally and personally. The platform from incumbent candidate Vito Galluccio represents the very topics that all residents can relate to and are passionate about. His professional experience with government budgets puts him in a unique position to critically review our school’s budget and plan for growth for the future. That forward thinking is what the board really needs for sustainable success. This skill set also can benefit other board members who lack this particular area of expertise, as more tax money going to the schools doesn’t automatically translate into a better education. The resources need to be carefully allocated and balanced to benefit our children. Additionally, Vito has the courage to speak up and be the voice for so many residents that cannot attend the Board meetings, all while demonstrating compassion and respect for others’ opinions. He is approachable and truly listens to get others’ point of view. As a former member of the Robbinsville Board of Education, I understand the challenges of this position, and Vito is clearly an asset to the board.
— Maxine Fox
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I feel it’s no coincidence that Election Day occurs during the month of thanks. I’m extremely grateful for my right to vote and I have instilled in my children how important it is to head to the voting booth each November. This year, I’m excited to push the button for Vito Galluccio.
I moved to Robbinsville in 1999, with my soon to be husband, ready to start a family and a life together. We were attracted to Robbinsville primarily because of our school system. We have been blessed with fabulous teachers who truly love our children.
It’s frightening sending your children to school, especially with the craziness of the world. I always felt that during the school day, my girls were taken care of academically and emotionally, but this year, I feel more at ease because of the changes that have been made to keep them safe in our schools. I’m very thankful for these safety changes that were made possible due to the efforts of the Robbinsville Board of Education, which Vito Gallucio sat on.
Vito has continuously showed us all how much he cares about our students and our entire community.
I heard him speak passionately about fiscal accountability, so that programs for our students remain intact, but, we strive to keep our taxes from rising so that our seniors and those who can’t afford continuous tax increases can remain in this beautiful town of ours.
Vito has always taken time to listen to my concerns, and the concerns of my children and their friends. He not only listens, he works on making changes.
Vito has brought so much of his passion, dedication and leadership to the Board of Education, his presence needs to remain.
— Deborah Blakely
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One of the benefits of moving to Robbinsville over 15 years ago was getting to know Vito Galluccio and his wife Cate, who I met in 2007. Vito has become a close friend and established himself in the community through his volunteer efforts. Over the past year, Vito has served on the Robbinsville Board of Education and has been crucial in helping our teachers and students excel on many different levels, while continuing to hold a hard line on fiscal accountability. Vito’s professional background allows him great insight to the fiscal discussions the Board of Education continuously has in order to ensure our students and teachers have what they need to succeed, while balancing responsible spending to help relieve the taxpayer’s burden along the way. Through his leadership, residents can finally see tangible results by having no increase in our school tax this year, all while having additional money directed to the classroom.
While Vito has proven results on the financial end of the spectrum, school security is his other top priority as a Board of Education member. As we have all seen tragedies around our nation involving school children, our community is not immune to the problems faced elsewhere. Vito was heavily involved in working with township officials to secure two additional school resource officers. This was a crucial first step in protecting our students each day. While having two daughters in our school district, Vito is very passionate in continuing the forward momentum of school security initiatives by investing in additional infrastructure and mental health resources.
Vito Galluccio’s experience, leadership and vision will continue to bring positive results to our students and teachers.
— Mike Todd
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School board member Craig Heilman has been our daughter Anna’s soccer coach for many years and playing on his team has been one of the most rewarding experiences. Back in 8th grade when many recreational soccer teams struggled to continue, Craig’s crew of players approached him after the last game because they were saddened that their time together would soon come to an end. Craig promised he would keep the team together and we crossed our fingers hoping that he could make this happen for the girls.
Four years later, Anna is still playing for Coach Craig. He kept his promise and this wonderful team of girls has been playing together for four more years. Under Craig’s guidance and support, they have become champions. He has taught them how to win humbly and lose gracefully. He has taught them the value of hard work, team work and that the strength of the team lies with each individual member. Craig makes every player feel valued, important and included no matter what their level of play. This is what Coach Craig is all about and what he will continue to bring to Robbinsville is invaluable. Our family cannot thank Craig enough for all the selfless hours of time he has dedicated to this team, to the league and to our community.
— Patty and Roger Dorval
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I am voting for Craig Heilman for the Robbinsville BOE.
I know him as a friend, when he served with me on the planning board, and as a member of the church I attend.
During the years that he has served on the school board, he has demonstrated that he is an excellent advocate for the students and the residents. His education and employment in finance gives him the tools he needs to make wise fiscal decisions. I have found him always willing to take the time to discuss school issues that concern us. I have a strong interest since I have a granddaughter at Pond Road School.
I hope residents will join me and vote for Craig.
— Janet Van Nest
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As a Robbinsville resident since 2000 and with two children in the school district since 2006, I have had the opportunity to watch our school district grow in major ways. I cannot say that it has been a perfect experience, as I have observed many growing pains over my 18 years here. However, what I can say is that our school board has overcome many struggles, particularly surrounding funding and keeping a balanced approach with school taxes. Our school board’s priority is to ensure a quality, financially responsible education to our children.
Craig Heilman brings not only the competent financial experience required to keep our district on track from a budget perspective, but he also brings a strong sense of understanding of our community through his in-depth involvement as a parent in the district, a volunteer coach for 13 years, and service on the planning board, recreation committee, and environmental committee. Given his deep involvement and commitment to the school district and the township, I can’t think of a more qualified candidate for school board.
— Suzanne Toppy
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I wanted to send a brief note to let you know why I support and am voting for Robbinsville Board of Education candidate Noushin Kanani. I don’t have children in the school system but do keep track of what’s going on around town and it is clear the Robbinsville BOE needs to be refreshed. Candidate Kanani is an independent with no ties to the cronyism that currently exists on the board; she has a strong voice, a passion for a safe and comprehensive education for our children and a strong commitment and ties to our local community.
Given past controversies, conflicts of interest and financial mismanagement, the Robbinsville BOE needs a candidate like Noushin, now. She is smart, strong-willed and ethical and exactly the change our board needs. I am confident candidate Kanani will be as much of an asset to the BOE as she is to the town of Robbinsville and I’m proud to support her.
— Kristina Klipp
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Anyone who knows Noushin Kanani will tell you she cares and is dedicated to the betterment of the school district.
Noushin is a proponent of school security and obtaining educational excellence while simultaneously striving for tax fairness. Noushin knows that it’s not the amount of money, but how effectively it is utilized, that matters for both students and taxpayers. I have witnessed Noushin for nearly three years attend nearly every meeting (Noushin has possibly a better attendance record than any BOE member) and actively engage with the BOE and school administrators. Noushin asks tough questions and will not back down when given the run-around.
Given the recent BOE events with bullying and ethics, Noushin has demonstrated that she will not tolerate such behavior. Noushin was the only person in the packed room on Aug. 28 who called for BOE members to step down from organizations that give the appearance of a conflict of interest. This is on the record. Sadly, two current BOE members refuse to understand that message. The BOE needs a fresh makeover and new ideas, and Noushin will be a significant contributor for both.
It is time to change the direction of the BOE so that it can be trusted by taxpayers to provide a fair and reasonable education for students. Clearly there are issues that remain with fiscal transparency, the allocation of taxpayer monies toward educational priorities, and BOE/administrative honesty. When elected to the BOE Noushin will ensure that these goals are achieved.
— Michael McGowan
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It’s that time of year again when every intersection in town is decorated with 18-by-24 red, white and blue campaign signs. I can barely read them all before the red light turns green. I’m very excited for Nov. 7 to come around and to making our intersections boring again!
There’s only one sign on our front lawn, displaying our support for Noushin Kanani.
I met Noushin in May 2018 and was immediately inspired by her biography—she came to the US at the age of 18, learned English, studied hard, graduated college, became a highly respected medical technologist at area hospitals, and raised two daughters with her husband here in Robbinsville, where they have resided for 16 years. That would be impressive on its own. But Noushin is much more than a resident. She models civic engagement – whether it’s a Town Council meeting or a Board of Education meeting, odds are you’ll see Noushin there. She’s usually seated up front, asking tough questions, and always prioritizing equity, accountability, and transparency. She asks the questions many want answered but are sometimes uncomfortable asking. Her involvement is not limited to local government meetings. She supports local charities and attends nearly all community events. Noushin meets new neighbors, makes them feel welcome, and invites them to engage on local issues that matter. I know because she did so with me.
I have no doubt that if elected, Noushin will work tirelessly for this town and for its most precious asset, the students in Robbinsville’s schools. Noushin will always ask how a particular issue impacts the ones seated in the small desks. She is passionate about ensuring the curriculum in Robbinsville is challenging and engaging, preparing students for the college and career pathways that are right for them.
Noushin has run a fair, honest and respectful campaign. She will bring a fresh perspective to the Robbinsville Board of Education. She has certainly earned our vote.
— Brian Hayes
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I have known Noushin since shortly after moving to Robbinsville 11 years ago. She has been the more unflinchingly loyal, trustworthy new friend I made here. She is the only one who would drop everything and help you when you don’t know what to do anymore. She cares about people, about our town and, more importantly, our town’s children. I cannot imagine a better person to represent us, at any level.
— Ruxandra A. Barb
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Since being elected last year to fill the one year unexpired term, Lisa Temple has dedicated herself to learning the job and has worked tirelessly to do everything she can to improve our schools.
Lisa is intelligent, open minded, and an independent thinker. She does her research and listens to all sides before coming to a thoughtful decision. Since the district acquired additional state aid, she has worked collaboratively with her fellow board members and the administration to ensure that this money is being spent wisely and every dollar spent is adding value to the overall student experience.
Lisa is focused on ensuring that every student receives a solid, well rounded education in a safe and secure learning environment. She has a balanced approach to fiscal responsibility. Most importantly, I find Lisa’s integrity and commitment to the board to be admirable. She stands by her word and her vote. She is committed to the continual improvement of our school district and she truly cares about each and every student.
On a personal note, I’ve known Lisa for many years. She’s a genuinely good-hearted person raising two amazing, thoughtful kids. Lisa grew up in a rural community with family farm roots, and thanks to a strong public school education, went to college and moved on to a great career at the nation’s largest bank. When she gave up her career for the benefit of her children, she refocused her skills and channeled her energy into helping others.
Lisa knows first-hand the importance of a great public school education. Let’s keep the district moving in the right direction.
— Elyssa Grodsky
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I have known Lisa Temple as a dear friend and neighbor for many years. She is a kind, caring individual that will go out of her way to help others.
Lisa is a person of high integrity and reliability—always quick to offer a neighboring hand or provide a supportive shoulder to lean on during difficult times. From her various Board of Education accountabilities and subcommittee initiatives to her extensive volunteer work with Dress for Success and PTA; she handles all of her responsibilities with equal value and an impassioned sense of urgency. Lisa spends her free time helping her family, neighbors, and schools because she cares about our community and the education of our students.
As an active member of the Board or Education, Lisa is passionate about retaining our talented teachers, keeping our schools safe, and developing well-rounded students. I personally share her belief in “developing the whole child”; that each child has unique learning and emotional needs that goes beyond the sole focus of academics. Whether it’s in athletics, student-formed clubs, or arts programs, you never know when that one area of personal achievement could be the catalyst that finds its way back into a classroom and makes all the difference.
Please consider supporting Lisa Temple for re-election to the Board of Education so that she may continue to lend her talents from previous work experience and her kind, caring demeanor to the betterment of our schools and the further development of well-rounded students.
— Loni Jakub
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Lisa Temple has a wealth of varied experiences that she brings to the Robbinsville BOE. She is a longtime resident who deeply cares about the quality education Robbinsville offers its students. While she is the mother of 2 school-aged children, she tirelessly fights to ensure that all students have access to superior programs and services.
Lisa Temple is a proponent of educating the Whole Child and supports the development of lifelong readiness skills. She recognizes that the socio-emotional needs of students are paramount to their success in school and in life. Her vision directly aligns with the “Robbinsville Ready” initiative developed by the staff, students and administration.
Lisa Temple is fiscally responsible and recognizes that a balanced approach to spending benefits the community as a whole. She believes in fighting for fair funding and then appropriating the funds to directly impact educational programs, infrastructure, security and tax relief. Lisa views education as an investment in our town’s future; an investment that benefits us all.
Lisa Temple has volunteered countless hours to the Robbinsville School District. Through her dedicated service, she has gained a unique perspective on the challenges facing our schools. She has worked collaboratively with many stakeholders and has earned the trust and admiration of those who have seen her level of commitment first hand.
The primary responsibility of a serving member of the Robbinsville Board of Education is stewardship of the educational process. We are asked to vote for those who we feel would be most knowledgeable, ethical, practical and visionary. Lisa Temple exemplifies all of these qualities.
— Carrie Lansberry
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I have known Lisa Temple for seven years. We met when our daughters were in the same dance class. I have always been impressed by her organizational ability, her planning, and her follow-through. She has great ideas and is continually trying to make things better, for her family, her neighborhood, and her children’s school. Most of all, she has a good heart, as I have seen with how inclusive she has been with my daughter Marissa, who has special needs. With all of these qualities plus her background in finance, she would be a great addition to the Robbinsville Board of Education.
— Sarah Reggimenti
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