TEANECK, N.J.: Dr. Marcelo Venegas-Pizarro says Teaneck schools can save millions of dollars without cutting classroom instruction, and he wants voters to send him to the Board of Education to prove it.

Venegas-Pizarro laid out his proposal at the Sept. 24 candidates forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of Teaneck. The physician is challenging incumbents David Gruber and Gerald B. Kirshenbaum alongside Liza Fernandez and Eric Rhea as part of Team EFG.

In his written answers to the League, Venegas-Pizarro proposed a $2 million efficiency initiative aimed at administrative spending, building operations, transportation, vendors and legal expenses.

A 5% improvement in the district’s $10.77 million operations budget could save about $539,000, he estimated. A 5% reduction in its $9.655 million transportation budget could save another $483,000.

He also proposed reviewing administrative responsibilities, reducing unnecessary consultants, centralizing purchasing and demanding competitive pricing from vendors.

“The goal is responsible management through efficiency, consolidation, and stronger oversight,” he wrote, “not classroom layoffs or program cuts.”

At the forum, Venegas-Pizarro argued that too little of the district’s roughly $130 million budget goes directly to education programs. He cited transportation costs and special education expenses as areas that deserve closer scrutiny, while acknowledging that legally required services must continue.

He also raised concerns about students facing food insecurity, saying the district has a responsibility to address the conditions that affect children’s ability to learn.

Air conditioning is another priority. Venegas-Pizarro criticized the district’s timeline for a potential bond referendum, saying students and staff should not have to endure excessive heat or lose school time because buildings are too hot.

In his voters guide response, he said the district missed an opportunity to pursue a $30 million to $50 million capital project that could include air conditioning throughout its schools. He also praised the district’s expanded Pre-K and kindergarten programs, citing their ability to serve more children while using state funding.

Venegas-Pizarro wants the next superintendent held to measurable goals. His proposal calls for community town halls and surveys, 100-day plans from finalists and annual objectives with public evaluations of progress.

The doctor, who has worked in healthcare settings serving underserved communities, said the district needs a leader who can manage its finances while building trust across Teaneck’s diverse population.

In his closing statement, Venegas-Pizarro said his team had studied the budget and the district’s five-year plan and was ready to lead.

“Experience matters, but it’s time for change,” he said.

Venegas-Pizarro is running on Column A in the Nov. 3 election.