Election 2020: Chester School Board Candidate Liz Madinabeitia

NEW JERSEY - In a few short weeks what is expected to be one of the most charged elections in modern history is set to take place and Patch has asked local candidates to share their thoughts before the Nov. 3 election.

Editor's Note: Patch sent out emails to all candidates to the email addresses listed for their campaign provided to the county clerk. The responses received will be published between now and the general election. Candidates who would like to participate but did not receive one (for whatever reason) can contact Russ.Crespolini@patch.com.

• Name: Liz Madinabeitia
• Education: Undergrad - finance, Masters - Education
• Of note: Three kids in the district

Patch asked these questions to all candidates:

1. Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?
2. The single most pressing issue facing our school district and what you intend to do about it:
3. That are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking to serve on the school board? If unopposed, describe the issues that define your campaign platform.
4. What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you will be effective on the school board?
5. Recovering from COVID-19 is going to put a significant financial strain on the schools. With so much of our tax dollars going to support them. But cuts will still be needed. Where do you see room for budget improvement? What things will you go to the mat to defend?
6. The COVID-19 pandemic has put into focus the issue of mandatory vaccinations. If such a movement gains traction, where do you stand on the issue for your community?

This was the response we received:

"This is my tenth year living in Chester Township and like many other families we moved here for the amazing school district. I have a daughter and 2 sons in the district ages, 12, 11 and 9. I am running for a third term on the board in hopes of serving the district and the community.

I have dedicated my career to education and I consider working to serve the Chester School district a privilege. My previous time on the board, a Masters Degree in Education and several years as a teacher and school administrator will assist in my ability to make sound decisions to best serve our community.

The current focus needs to be on supporting our staff to provide the best education possible for our students. During these difficult times it's crucial that we stay fiscally responsible without allowing the academic, social and emotional needs of the students to suffer. If given the chance, I look forward to serving the community. "

Since the change to this year's election was announced by Murphy, there have been many questions about how the process will work. Below is some further reading on the Nov. 3 election process:

• Here's How NJ's Mail-In General Election Will Work: What To Know

A primarily vote-by-mail election means a lot of changes to election day. See what you can expect this November.

• What's A NJ Provisional Ballot? How Does It Work? Patch Found Out

Those not needing an ADA compliant booth will need a provisional ballot to vote in-person. Here is what that will look like.

• Do Mail-In Ballots Force NJ Voters To Lie? Here's The Answer

There was language on the primary ballots asked voters certify they requested the ballot, even if they didn't.

• How Are Election Signatures Verified In NJ? Patch Found Out

Voters wondering how their signatures are checked before the upcoming election can see the process for themselves.

• How To Register, Track Your General Election Vote Online In NJ

Need to register for the upcoming election? Want to track your vote once you do? Read on to learn how.

• Key 2020 Voting Deadlines In New Jersey

Here is a recap of important dates to remember with upcoming election, all in one place.

• NJ: Get A Wrong Or Duplicate Ballot? It Is Probably Your Fault

Confusion and concern has reigned as ballots arrive, here Patch got some answers from a county clerk.

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