Writer’s (Provided) Disclaimer: The opinions in this article are personal and do not represent the opinion of the Teaneck Board of Education. All stated figures are in the public domain.
As some of you are aware, I am running for my fourth (and final) term on the Board of Education. I was a Trustee from 2013-18 and 2023-26. My running mate, Gerald Kirschenbaum with 50+ years of education experience, is aptly qualified for another term on the Board of Education.
As Chair of the Finance and Facilities Committee, I have been intimately involved in expenditure review, financial accuracy and cost management. Among recent achievements include:
Helped hold tax increases to 2.5% and 2.99%
Worked with the board and the business office to keep two consecutive budgets in reach for Teaneck taxpayers while protecting the district’s financial reserves.
Worked to keep budget pressure out of classrooms
Pushed to protect academic programs, classroom resources, and class sizes when the board had difficult choices to make.
Pushed for honest budget numbers
Argued for realistic baselines and projections across the district’s complex accounts, including special education, which totals $36 million, or 28.1% of the budget, far higher than in neighboring districts.
Raised the alarm on health insurance costs
Personnel, transportation, and health insurance drive the district’s $128 million general fund budget. Brought the district’s fastest-growing expense to the front of the board’s agenda and has been working with colleagues on ways to slow it.
Serves on the Negotiations and Government Advocacy Committees
Helps with contract negotiations with the district’s teachers, administrators, and maintenance staff. One contract has been settled so far, with ongoing work on the rest. Also represents the board with county and local officials on community advocacy.
The challenges during the next three years are expected to worsen. Salaries are increasing at below market rates. Special education costs continue to rise, primarily driven by unilateral placements. Out-of-district special education transportation costs are exorbitant. And the cost of benefits driven by healthcare are “exploding” – much needs to be done to ameliorate the projected increase.
In closing, my experience in business and the Board of Education allows me to add value as a Trustee, influence major initiatives and oversee financial expenditures. On November 3, vote Column B. Kirshenbaum and Gruber to the Board of Education.
David Gruber, MD, MBA, brings 40 years of healthcare experience as a corporate executive, Wall Street analyst and consultant. His expertise is in healthcare finance and health insurance, and he serves as head of the Finance and Facilities Committee. Gruber is running for the Board of Education after previously serving eight years as a trustee.
More about Gruber's campaign can be found at: risingteaneckhigher.com
