Join us TOMORROW at 5:00 PM in the High School LGI (Room 116) for an important opportunity to hear from the two dedicated candidates running for the school board:
🦊 Brandy S. Stephens
📍 Newark resident, proud NHS Class of 2001 alumna, and mother of two students at Newark Middle School
💼 Branch Manager at CBNA
What will you contribute to the Newark Board of Education: As a proud graduate of Newark Senior High School Class of 2001, and a parent of two boys who currently attend 6th grade at Newark Middle School, I will contribute my voice along with new energy and ideas all while working collaboratively with other members of the school board. I will also work hand in hand with the superintendent and the board to advocate for every student, staff, parent and the community. With the ever-changing education system and my deeply rooted financial background as a banking branch manager and homegrown roots to the Newark community and district, I will work diligently to uphold the district’s vision of Every Student, Every Day.
🦊 Miranda Brooks-Ruggeri
📍 233 East Miller Street, mother of six and current Board Trustee
💼 Walmart Front End Services Associate
🏫 Current Board Trustee, Newark Music Booster
What will you contribute to the Newark Board of Education: I would like to contribute to our school board a continued focus on our core values, relevant experience, and specific interests related to education. This would involve advocating for policies that support students, improve the learning environment and encourage engagement. In my term as a Board Trustee, I have grown to understand that the role of the school board member is multifaceted and that it isn’t always black and white. Realizing and accepting that our education system is ever changing and adapting to the relevant needs and concerns of our students and community is at the forefront. Knowing that change is ongoing and evolving will lend a hand to a better understanding of what we collectively will be working for. Changing graduation requirements are put forth in the NYS Portrait of a Graduate which are aiming to prepare students for college, careers, service and civic engagement emphasizing the importance of developing skills beyond traditional academics, such as critical thinking, problem-solving and communication. On the heels of this we will shift our curriculum to align with the initiative to ensure that all students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Because of this I believe all our students should have access to a quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. I want our students to know they have the right to thrive academically, socially and emotionally within our district and feel confident we are standing by guiding and encouraging them. I will continue to garner information needed to understand budgets and financial implications of school policies and be able to relay, to ensure our school district operates effectively. To consistently foster and build relationships with educators and learn about their experiences, prioritize building trust, being responsive and actively seeking out opportunities for interaction and collaboration. Moreover, I would like to continue to be a link and sounding board for those who have concerns and/or ideas. I personally feel I can still lend a perspective relatable to much of our community demographic that may otherwise feel unheard while respecting and representing the interests of parents, students, teachers and taxpayers.
📅 Don’t miss this chance to engage with the candidates, ask questions, and learn more about their visions for Newark’s future.
🎥 Can't make it in person? You can watch LIVE online via our YouTube channel - Click here!
Read their full bios below:
