Liguori excited to get to work on N.B. school board

I want to thank the voters of North Brunswick for supporting my candidacy during last week's school board election. I am completely humbled by the victory, and I am eager to roll up my sleeves and get started on the opportunity that lies ahead.

My campaign this year addressed several key issues which I am passionate about, including the capital budget, class size, curriculum, safety/security, and technology. As a former student and current parent, I join the Board of Education in demonstrating a firm commitment to these issues, all of which were addressed in the budget.

Most importantly, I believe the North Brunswick Board of Education needs to regain the trust of the voters. This year marked the second consecutive voter turnout of only 9 percent. We must become a completely transparent board. Meetings must be immediately televised, and our schools' Web site must be filled with timely, pertinent information so that all in town have an opportunity to see what occurs. Based on last week's events, we must also strive to find a way to alert our residents simultaneously of emergencies.

We must account for every dollar spent. Annual budgets are complex and must be explained in great detail. The 5,500 students of our wonderful town - and the more than 800 teachers who instruct these young men and women - are the ones who will suffer from continued voter apathy, repeated budget defeats and subsequent budget cuts.

I especially want to thank all of my family and friends for their encouragement and support. It was extremely gratifying to receive phone calls and e-mails during the campaign asking for lawn signs, giving advice, or simply offering encouragement. It will not soon be forgotten.

I am ready to work with all of my new colleagues on the board, and I look forward to serving all of the people of North Brunswick. Thank you very much for your faith in me. I will work tirelessly and diligently to restore your trust in our school system.

Richard D. Liguori

North Brunswick