Moorestown School Board Election 2025: Saima Bhutta Candidate Profile

MOORESTOWN, NJ — Moorestown has five candidates running for three positions on the Board of Education.

Patch sent questions to all candidates in the race and will publish responses as they're received. All candidate profiles will be re-shared closer to Election Day, which is Nov. 4.

• Read more: 5 Candidates Running For School Board In Moorestown; President Won't Seek Re-Election

Saima Bhutta, a candidate in the race, sent Patch the following responses:

Saima Abrar Bhutta

• Age: 59
• Education: Doctor of Medical Science (Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions); master’s degree (The George Washington University); Bachelor of Science, physician assistant studies (Drexel University).
• Occupation: physician assistant and community advocate.
• Previous elected/appointed office: Burlington County Board of Social Services, New Jersey Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Commission, Women’s Advisory Council of Burlington County. Sustainable Moorestown Committee, Better Together Moorestown Committee’s task force.

Why are you running for school board?

I’m running because Moorestown schools shaped my children’s success in college and their careers — and I want to make sure every child has that same opportunity. One of my sons had an IEP, and I worked closely with his team and school occupational therapists, so I understand firsthand how critical it is to give educators the tools and resources to reach every student.

As a longtime Moorestown resident and community volunteer, I’ve served on township committees and led youth leadership programs that empower the next generation. Those experiences strengthened my belief that strong schools and strong communities go hand in hand. On the board, I’ll work to provide educators with the resources they need, enhance guidance and social-emotional support for students, and ensure every dollar is put toward helping students succeed.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I’m a proven collaborator and problem-solver. My experience as a health care professional and community advocate has taught me how to listen, analyze, and act with compassion and accountability. I don’t just talk about ideas; I follow through and get things done.

What makes me different is my ability to bridge perspectives. I’ve worked across committees, founded three nonprofits, lead health and wellness fairs, established the free COVID testing site in our township during the pandemic and volunteered for programs with township committees to make Moorestown stronger. I’ll bring that same approach to the board, focusing on teamwork with the superintendent and fellow members to deliver results for students, families, and taxpayers alike.

What past accomplishments or experiences make you qualified for this position?

Service has always been at the heart of who I am. During the Afghan refugee crisis, I coordinated local relief efforts, turning my garage into a donation center, mobilizing residents and faith groups, and ultimately helping establish a school for refugee children with bilingual teachers and supplies. That experience showed me what’s possible when a community works together.

I’ve also led youth leadership programs in Moorestown, helping students build confidence and civic engagement. Those roles reflect my commitment to nurturing young people and creating systems of support that allow every child to succeed. I bring both organizational experience and heart to this role.

If elected, what will be your top priorities during your elected term?

My top priorities reflect my campaign vision: helping students succeed. I will collaborate with fellow Board members to accomplish this while being responsible stewards of taxpayer funds.

First, with the help of our new superintendent, we will update the strategic plan for our district. I’ll also ensure the referendum projects are completed efficiently and transparently. The two proposals approved should be the ceiling of what we ask taxpayers to contribute. We owe it to the community to finish what was promised and deliver first-class facilities for our students and educators to excel in.

Second, I’ll work to enhance guidance and social-emotional services, ensuring every student has access to the support they need to thrive academically and personally. Whether giving every child the support they deserve at younger grade levels or ensuring our juniors and seniors are ready and equipped for the next step — college, vocational training, career, or military service like my son — our students need a well-rounded educational environment.

Third, I’ll use data and measurable outcomes to drive student achievement and make sure community investments directly benefit learning. Strong schools protect our property values, strengthen our town, and give every Moorestown student the opportunity to succeed.