Colts Neck Board Of Education Election 2024: Vanessa Dawson

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

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.

Vanessa Dawson

Age: 40
Town of residence: Colts Neck
Education: Monmouth University (MA of Science in Education-Principal/Supervision), Kean University (BA Early Childhood Education)
Occupation: Teacher

What drove you to seek public office?
I am driven to seek a position on the Board of Education because my children are my “why.”

As a parent, I want to ensure that every child in our community receives a quality education and the support they need to thrive. I am deeply passionate about the Colts Neck community, where I have spent nearly my entire life in Monmouth County.

With 18 years of experience as an educator, I understand the challenges and opportunities within our educational system. I believe in the importance of a strong foundation for our students and the need to foster an environment where they can flourish academically and personally.

My conservative values guide my approach to education, emphasizing accountability, fiscal responsibility, and the importance of parental involvement.

I am committed to being a voice for our community and advocating for policies that benefit our children and their future. Together, we can create a thriving educational environment that reflects our shared values and supports the success of every student.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?
What sets me apart from other Board of Education candidates is my strong community involvement and extensive educational experience.

As an active member of the Parent Advisory, the PTO, and a volunteer for student activities at numerous grade levels, I’ve engaged firsthand with parents, students, and educators. This deep connection to the community allows me to understand the needs and concerns of families and make informed decisions that truly reflect what’s best for our students.

Additionally, my background as an educator for students from Kindergarten to 5th grade gives me direct insight into the challenges they face in the classroom.

I know what works, and I can advocate for evidence-based programs that improve learning outcomes. I believe in the importance of working as a team and fostering a shared vision among board members, educators, and the community.

Alongside the amazing candidates on the ATU ticket, we can create a cohesive strategy that aligns our goals and perspectives, ultimately benefiting all students.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing Colts Neck, and how will you resolve it?
The biggest issue facing Colts Neck is maintaining high academic standards while managing financial constraints.

To address this, I would focus on incentivizing parents to become more involved by offering flexible meeting times, providing volunteer hour recognition, and creating opportunities for families to participate in school events and decision-making processes. This approach fosters collaboration and aligns the district’s goals with community needs.

Additionally, I would prioritize strengthening academic programs by expanding STEM, arts, and advanced placement courses while also enhancing enrichment opportunities for all students across various subjects.

Supporting teacher professional development is essential for enhancing instructional quality. Maintaining manageable class sizes and expanding intervention programs are key to ensuring students receive personalized support.

What are past accomplishments or experiences that make you qualified for this position?
I have several accomplishments and experiences that qualify me for the Board of Education position.

My active involvement with the Parent Advisory and the PTO has allowed me to facilitate communication between parents and school officials, ensuring that families' voices are heard in decision-making processes.

Additionally, my experience as an educator provides me with a deep understanding of the challenges and needs that students face in the classroom. Volunteering for various student activities has further given me insight into creating supportive environments that foster early learning and development.

Together, these experiences have equipped me with the skills and perspective necessary to make informed decisions that benefit all students and the community.

Name one thing about Colts Neck that always makes you smile.
One thing about Colts Neck that always makes me smile is the strong sense of community and togetherness, especially during the fall season.

I can’t choose just one favorite aspect because there are so many! From gathering at our favorite restaurants to exploring the great outdoors with apple and pumpkin picking at local farms, the shared experiences in Colts Neck truly reflect the warmth and connection that make this town so special.

I am incredibly grateful that my children get to call Colts Neck home.