My name is Laura De Benedetto and I am running for the Clifton Board of Education.  I was raised in Clifton and am a successful product of the city’s education system.  After marrying my husband, Marc, thirteen years ago, we decided to return to Clifton to raise our son.  Tyler, now 10, has classes in the same grammar school (Nine Will Shine!) that I attended not-too-long ago.   I am a dedicated and concerned parent, which is why I volunteer as much as possible to help our children and our community.

 

Over the past few years, I have been listening to many parents and citizens with the same concerns as me, regarding what is happening—and not happening—in our city’s schools.  Unfortunately, many of these concerned parents also have expressed feeling intimidated in voicing their concerns publically, fearing consequences for doing so.  I feel everyone has a right to be heard; for those afraid to speak their minds, I will be their voice.  Many who already know me know that I am not afraid to speak to the issues, nor am I easily dissuaded from standing up for what is right.  For the children of Clifton, I will be a highly vocal advocate and champion for the quality of their education.

 

Some of the issues that I feel need to be focused on and addressed include:

• Uniformity of opportunity at the elementary school level, and equal participation in dialogue affecting the interests of faculty, parents, and students from each respective school

• The dropout rate at the high school level

• Budget-friendly technology updates for our schools, comparative to---or possibly exceeding—capabilities of other area districts.

• Wise, effective, and appropriate use of taxpayer money for educational use 

 

I may be a first-time candidate, but I am willing to take the serious issues head-on.  I know that if I am elected I will have a challenge, but it is a challenge I wholeheartedly welcome because our children are worth it.  My main goal is to help every child in Clifton to succeed and be the best that they can be!

 

I am asking for your support, and encourage you to spread the news about my candidacy.  It is only a few short months until Election Day, November 5th, 2013, and we have a lot of work ahead of us; with your help, we will bring real and positive change to Clifton’s education.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you are interested in volunteering to help with my campaign, please do not hesitate to reach out today!

 

Thank you again for your support, 

                                                                                                       

Laura De Benedetto

 

 

Committed to Our Children, Dedicated to Progress