I read the articles about Eric Rhea and Dr. Venega-Pizzaro calling for a bond referendum, updated learning materials and a school system that works for families. He criticized the district for not moving forward with a bond referendum and "the district should review transportation costs, pursue grants and identify savings that can support education."

Dr. Venega -Pizzaro "wants $2 million in savings without affecting the classroom.He calls for a spending overhaul, faster action on air conditioning and stronger accountability from the next superintendent."

It's easy to propose generalities during a campaign, especially from those with little experience in BOE education matters. I am the Chair, Finance and Facilities Committee interested in providing a factual summary of the ongoing situation.

We are the first BOE to propose bond referendum. Priority projects, including air conditioning are being proposed, state funding being assessed and legal and bond counsel presenting. We have also had presentations from the NJSBA about marketing a referendum to the community. A community vote on the referendum is targeted for Election Day, 2027

A review of the $9.4M transportation budget is ongoing. Nearly one-half of the spending is for special education. A significant portion of spending is for non-public school students as mandated by the State.

Identifying savings to promote education is too general. We have a $128M annual budget. We are closely looking at savings, in particular healthcare insurance, custodial and administrative costs.

A spending overhaul is not necessary. In what areas? What we need is a targeted cost reduction effort that "protects" the classroom.

The BOE has one employee, the superintendent. Experience as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent, cultural literacy, communication skills, academic leadership and financial/operational skills are required. Accountability is a given.

In closing, experience matters. It is the difference between theory and practice

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