Point Pleasant School Board Election 2024: Gregory Hillman

POINT PLEASANT, NJ — Patch is again publishing profiles of local candidates in the 2024 election, set for Tuesday, Nov. 5.

The Point Pleasant Board of Education election has four candidates seeking three, three-year seats. Dawn M. Coughlan, running on the Guiding Panthers Forward slogan, and Lawrence "Larry" Williams are seeking re-election. Hannah Corbin, running on the Advocating for Education! slogan, and Gregory Hillman also are seeking one of the three seats.

The candidates received the same questions. Here is the response from Gregory Hillman.

Name: Gregory Hillman

Age: 44

Family: Wife: Meghan, Children: Molly (11), Sean (8)

Education:

• Rutgers University: Masters of Science in Administration and Supervision of Education - Degree Earned 2016
• Brooklyn College: Masters of Science in Education - Degree Earned 2010
• Lafayette College: Bachelor of Arts in Business and Economics / Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art - Class of 2002
• Manasquan High School: Class of 1998

Occupation: School Business Administrator/Board Secretary, Sea Girt Elementary School – Sea Girt, NJ – (8/2023 - Present)

Previous Experience:

• Middle School Mathematics Teacher
• Sea Girt Elementary School – Sea Girt, NJ – (9/2021 – 8/2023)
• Terrill Middle School – Scotch Plains, NJ – (9/2011 – 6/2021)
• Public School 95 – The Gravesend School – Brooklyn, NY – (6/2008 – 6/2011)

Director of Summer Recreation, Sea Girt Recreation – Sea Girt, NJ – (2011–2022)

Advertising Sales - Account Service Representative / Sales Assistant

Music Choice Advertising Sales Department – New York, NY – (5/2006 – 6/2008)

ABC Family Advertising Sales Department – New York, NY – (7/2003 – 5/2006)

Any previous elected office or appointments in local government? No

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for.

No, no one in my family works in politics or government.

Why are you running for office? I have always had the desire to run for the Board of Education since I began teaching. I think it is extremely valuable to have people with educational experience as representatives of the community on the Board. Additionally, my work as a school business administrator has equipped me with valuable insights into effectively managing schools. I understand the right questions to ask so that the Board can make the best decisions for the students, staff, and community. By applying my knowledge, we can address the diverse needs of our students and create an environment that reflects our shared values. Together, we can ensure that every student has the support they need to thrive.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing the Point Pleasant School District right now and how would you address it?

The biggest issue facing our school district, and our society, is technology overload for young people. While technology is a valuable tool for learning, I have seen that excessive screen time can negatively impact students' social skills and mental health. Childhood has changed, and I have seen that kids are struggling to connect. To address this, I would advocate for a balanced approach that incorporates technology in moderation. This includes providing professional development for teachers on integrating technology effectively, promoting digital wellness programs for students, and encouraging hands-on, interactive learning experiences that foster collaboration and critical thinking. By prioritizing a healthy relationship with technology, we can support our students’ overall well-being and ensure they are prepared for the future.

Name one thing about the Point Pleasant School District that always makes you smile.

I love the sense of community that the school district fosters. There is a lot of pride in the people who represent the Panthers on the field, on the stage, in the stands, and out in the community. All over town, you continuously see people promoting and supporting so many different aspects of Boro life.