Election 2020: Mendham Boro School Board Candidate John Jennings

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. What you see below are their answers with mild style edits.

• Name: John Jennings
• Campaign Contact Name, Phone Number: N/A
• Previous elected office if any: Two terms Mendham Borough BOE
• Education: University of Delaware, BS Accounting Minor Business Administration, New York University Stern School of Business MBA Finance and International Business
• Certified Public Accountant (inactive) and Chartered Financial Analyst
• Occupation: Retired 30 Year Career in Finance, Current School Business Administrator for High Bridge School District
• Fun Fact: I have played a lot of golf but never got a hole in one
• What inspires you: My wife and children, they are the most important people in my life, bar none
• Why are you seeking a seat on the School Board? I have been on the Mendham Borough School Board for the last 6 years. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time and wish to continue in that capacity. Given the current environment (Covid) it is essential that School Boards and Administrators work together to ensure our schools are providing both top quality education in a safe environment. My experience and knowledge as well as relationship with the administration team aid in the process.

The single most pressing issue facing our school district and what you intend to do about it:

Under normal circumstances, the underlying goal for the district is to provide a top quality education for all students, taking into account the financial constraints (2% budget cap) put on the district. The district has done a phenomenal job in achieving this balance keeping our budget within and several times below the 2% cap while maintaining high academic achievement. We have also upgraded our facilities which include but are not limited to a new media center, new student wellness center as well as upgrades to both schools basketball courts and playgrounds.

What are the critical differences between you and other candidates seeking to serve on the school Board. If unopposed describe the issues that define your campaign platform.

I can say that my fellow incumbent (Catalina Wolfmeyer) who I have worked closely with on the Board for several years, shares many of the same values/goals as I do. I cannot comment on the other two candidates positions as I have never met or spoken with them. What I believe separates me would be my experience (6 years as a school board member) as well as my current role as School Business Administrator of High Bridge School District, a similar K-8 school district as Mendham Borough. I am extremely familiar with all the financial and regulatory constraints that school districts have to navigate. This knowledge gives me a unique perspective as a Board Member.

What accomplishments in your past would cite as evidence you will be effective on the School Board?

- School Finances in excellent shape living within and at times below the 2% budget cap
- Upgrade to facilities as mentioned above
- Mendham Borough was way in forefront of preparing for remote learning in terms of having all the necessary equipment/technology in place to immediately provide this form of instruction within days of the state mandated shutdown.

- The district was also one of the first in the area to bring students back to in-person instruction in late August. This was made possible by the proper planning and hard work and dedication of all our staff to ensure our schools were safe and operating within all the Federal, State and County protocols. The success of the reopening allowed the District to move in the next phase(s) of reopening having more in school instruction.

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?

First, before cutting anything, I would look for additional revenue sources. There are several Federal/State sources including CaresAct, Digital Divide, Allysa's Law Security Grant, Coronavirus Relief Fund and FEMA that are providing relief for Covid and security related expenses. The district has and continues to access these resources to offset the incremental Covid related costs. Thus far, given the additional resources and the fact that the District's finances have and continue to be in really good shape, there is no plan on cutting any programs in the current school year for financial reasons.

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.

On a personal level, my wife and I have vaccinated all our children per our physician's recommendation. As a Board Member, we are responsible for ensuring that our schools are following all the Federal, State and County guidelines. So my role as a Board Member is to work with the Administration ensuring that the District's policies regarding vaccinations are in compliance with all the guidelines and regulations.

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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