Colts Neck Board Of Education Election 2024: Robert Scales

COLTS NECK, NJ — Colts Neck’s general election on Nov. 5 has seven candidates running for three open seats on the Board of Education.

Candidate Robert Scales is running for one of three seats with Brian Scarpa and Sara Horowitz. Opposing candidates include Mark E. Chersevani, Brenna Dillon, Amy Dimes, and Vanessa Dawson.

Are you running for the Board of Education in Colts Neck? Contact Sara Winick at sara.winick@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Colts Neck Patch.

Robert Scales

Age: 40
Town of residence: Colts Neck
Education: University of Rhode Island, Bachelors in Economics
Occupation: Senior Executive, Business Development — Indirect Procurement

What drove you to seek public office?
My family and I have proudly called Colts Neck our home for nearly a decade and have been residents of Monmouth County our entire lives. I am running for the Colts Neck Board of Education (CNBOE) because we cherish this town and I am committed to upholding the conservative values that make it special. Our community thrives on strong family values and the safety of our children, and I am dedicated to preserving these principles against any overreach from the government in Trenton.

As a former All-American student-athlete, I deeply understand the significance of fair play and the transformative power of education and athletics on our youth. My goal is to ensure that our children have a fair and enriching experience both in the classroom and on the field.

I believe that parenting should remain a personal responsibility, not one imposed by the State of New Jersey. Transparency for parents is crucial, and I will work tirelessly to foster collaboration among teachers, families, and fellow board members to safeguard parental rights. Our dedicated Colts Neck teachers deserve to focus on education without the undue pressure to conform to state-driven agendas.

I am acutely aware of the hard work that Colts Neck families put into earning every dollar. With rising property values and tax revenue, it is essential that every penny is spent wisely. If elected, I will ensure that funds are managed efficiently and not wasted on unnecessary administrative costs.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?
What sets me apart from other candidates is my commitment to the Colts Kids First vision and the collective strength of our team. I am running with an exceptional slate of candidates—Brian Scarpa, Sara Horowitz, and Phyllis Camera (Camera is running for a one-year unexpired term on the Board of Education against opponent Tracy Kramer).

Our shared vision is captured in our slogan: Progressing with Purpose, Educating with Passion, Pioneering Our Future.

Here’s what sets the Colts Kids First slate apart:

• Progressing with Purpose: We are driven by clear, intentional goals that enhance our educational system. Every decision we make is focused on the well-being and growth of all students. We don't just want to maintain the status quo—we want to actively improve it, ensuring that our schools are at the forefront of innovation and excellence.
• Educating with Passion: Our team is deeply committed to education, not just as a policy matter but as a personal passion. We believe in inspiring each child to reach their fullest potential. My experience as a teacher and advocate, combined with the expertise of my running mates, ensures that we will bring this passion to every classroom.
• Pioneering Our Future: The future demands that we equip our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Our team is committed to creating an educational environment that is both inclusive and forward-thinking, ensuring that our children are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

CKF TEAM GOALS:

• APPROVING Sound and Fiscally Conservative Budgets
• FOCUSING on Fundamentals in Academics
• PROTECTING Title IX Integrity and Maintaining Core Principles
• SUPPORTING Parental Rights for Common Sense, Pro-Family Policies
• COMMITTING to Creating a Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment for All Students
• PROMOTING Transparency, Communication, and Accountability
• RESEARCHING Grants and Alternative Funding Methods

As a united team, we bring diverse experiences and a shared dedication to building a dynamic, supportive learning environment. What sets us apart is our ability to work collaboratively while keeping a laser focus on what matters most: the success of every child in our district.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing Colts Neck, and how will you resolve it?
The impact of Colts Neck Manor on our school district's infrastructure, along with the fiscal responsibility required to manage the situation properly, is a significant concern.

I am dissatisfied with the current board's response to this evolving financial landscape. Our board must take a proactive approach and be prepared for future challenges. Years ago, they misjudged the impact of The Grande, and based on what I’ve observed, they are on track to underestimate the impact of Colts Neck Manor as well.

Here are the facts:

• 360 new units
• 1.94 NJ’s average for children per household
• If only 50% of families have children, that equates to 180 families and 350 children
• The impact to our district will be:
• 17 additional classrooms needed
• 5 additional school buses needed

We need a board that will address this head-on, and if elected, I will ensure we do.

What are past accomplishments or experiences that make you qualified for this position?
Over the past 18 years, I have held several executive leadership roles in an industry dedicated to developing enterprise workflows that enable corporations to make efficient and fiscally responsible purchasing decisions. I have successfully consulted with C-suite executives of Fortune 500 companies, working closely with corporate buying committees consisting of 5 to 10 board members.

I am confident that my professional expertise will bring valuable insights and innovation to our Colts Neck BOE and our district.

Name one thing about Colts Neck that always makes you smile.
Our community means everything to us.

My family and I love this town, and I feel immense pride whenever someone asks "Where do you live?" And I can proudly reply, "Colts Neck, NJ."