Simmens has shown innovative thinking, great listening skills

East Brunswick needs Todd Simmens. I encourage all voters in our township to vote to re-elect him to the East Brunswick Board of Education on April 15.

It has been a pleasure and honor to serve on the board with Todd for the last three years. Although he is completing only his first term in office, his accomplishments are many. He has served on nearly all district committees, has been a board liaison to numerous township organizations, and, perhaps most impressively, has also immersed himself in the leadership of the board by serving as both vice president and president.

Todd Simmens' work on the board is directed by his philosophy that strong schools are central to the development of wellinformed, well-rounded individuals who in turn become the basis for strong communities. His participation on the board illustrates his commitment, intelligence and willingness to share his professional skills for the benefit of the children of East Brunswick.

Boards of education are unique elective positions. They are made up of nine individuals and are nonpartisan. The issues that must be dealt with are varied and complex and many require that important decisions be made within strict time constraints. Todd's ability to work collaboratively with board members has enabled this board to reach consensus and to move ahead with the job of governing schools that are noteworthy in every aspect. He is a great listener and has the ability to sort through often vast amounts of information to get to the heart of an issue. He shows compassion and interest in all parts of the school community and has earned the respect of all.

Membership on a board of education requires many hours of work, with the only compensation being pride in the fine young students who pass through and graduate from our fine educational programs. Clearly, Todd Simmens has demonstrated energy and innovative thinking in decision-making. He has been instrumental in not only setting the tone for educational achievement, but also in holding the line on costs. To this end, the board is pleased to present for voter approval a budget that has the lowest property tax increase in many years.

I believe that Todd Simmens has earned a vote of confidence from East Brunswick voters. I hope that you will agree.

Meredith Shaw

Member East Brunswick Board

of Education