October 2, 2024

Supporting Franceschi, Synder, and Santarpio for Election to Princeton Board of Education

To the Editor:

I ask Princeton voters to look carefully at the choices on the ballot for the Board of Education. Look for proven commitment to our kids and our schools. Look for the workers and volunteers who work and not just talk; those with skills who labor with love, care, and commitment on behalf of something greater than themselves; those without personal agendas. My own service on the Board revealed that the job requires 15-20 hours of commitment each week to ensure the schools are well run.

I’m casting my votes for Mara Franceschi, Erica Snyder, and Chris Santarpio because they have the proven ability to devote substantial personal resources for the greater good of our schools, along with the skill, integrity, and mindset to serve ethically.

Mara’s record of service to our schools is unparalleled from leadership roles in the PTO, PTOC, and BOE. During my service with her on the Board, I found her to be collaborative, insightful, and thoughtful. Her professional background in finance combined with leadership in committee work have served the district well, as evidenced by the proven, positive changes underway, including increasing test scores, early learning intervention initiatives, and dynamic administrators and staff who are dedicated to our kids. Mara’s second term will no doubt continue to benefit the district through her demonstrated, effective experience.

Erica and Chris both have held leadership roles as PTO parent-leaders. Over the past few years, both have dedicated their time and talents and countless hours to serving PPS students — as PTO leaders and as active participants at numerous board and board committee meetings. Erica brings extensive teaching/educational experience from districts around the country (her husband was active military) and now runs a preschool. Chris runs a second-generation N.J. family business and brings employee management, operational, logistics, and financial skills that would benefit the BOE. I believe both possess the skills and experience — and have the time, listening ability, and inclusive care for all students that the BOE needs.

If you are undecided, I ask you to consider voting for Mara Franceschi, Erica Snyder, and Chris Santarpio.

Jean Y. Durbin
Mount Lucas Road