South Brunswick Board of Education Election 2023: Smitha Raj

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — Incumbent Smitha Raj is among nine candidates running for a seat on the South Brunswick Board of Education.

Elected for the first time three years ago and having experience navigating the district through tough times, Raj believes she is perfectly placed to bring about positive change to the district.

Apart from state aid cuts, Raj’s focus is on the mental health of district students.

This year's general elections will be held on Nov. 7. Patch will publish a detailed interview with each candidate in the coming days.

Name: Smitha Raj

Age: 42

Town of residence: South Brunswick

Position sought: Member, South Brunswick Board of Education

Family: Yes

Education: PhD in Economics

Occupation: Statistical programming

Previous or current elected appointed office: Incumbent, South Brunswick Board of Education

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/Raja.Smitha.Mike

Why are you seeking to run for a seat on the South Brunswick Board of Education?

I have been on the board for the past three years. I would like to harness my experience of these past three years and work in the best interest of South Brunswick. I think that is of great value given the difficult times we are heading into.

What according to you is the biggest issue facing the school district right now?

The biggest issue facing our district is the reduction in state aid due to the S2 funding formula. The draconian cuts have the potential to disrupt the operations of the district as we know now.

SBSD is seeing regular cuts in state aid due to the funding formula. What plans do you have to ensure student services are not cut and there are no job losses for employees?

First, educate the town about the problem and bring the town together to put up a united front in our engagement with Trenton. Exploring the possibility of revenue generation will also be very helpful.

How many budget meetings have you attended and have you put forth any solutions?

I have attended all budget meetings for the past 3 years. As a member of the finance committee this past year, I have been part of the committee discussions as well.

Transportation is a statewide issue. Do you feel transportation issues are being handled well by the district? If not, how do you propose improving it?

Transportation is an issue around the country with school bus driver shortage, and fluctuation in gas prices, in the case of South Brunswick, the problem is compounded by state aid cuts. The district has been proactive on the issue. Two years ago an ad-hoc committee was floated with members from the community representing various stakeholders. After consultations with the committee and board deliberations, the district moved to a triple transportation format in which instead of each bus doing two runs, each does three runs, one each for high school, middle school and elementary. This reduced the number of buses and drivers needed to transport district students. Also, the district has transitioned to a newer fleet thereby reducing expenses. There is one possibility for the district to explore. The state of NJ had offered a grant to purchase electric buses. Though it comes with the huge challenge of transitioning from a fossil fuel fleet to an electric fleet, it is worth exploring.

What other issues do you feel need to be tackled in the district?

The other issue of interest to me is mental health among students, especially with the pervasive use of devices and inadequate sleep. Though it is something that is not mandated by the state Standards, I think there is great value in educating students on the interplay of device use, inadequate sleep and poor mental health. Better yet will be tailored programs to help students break this vicious cycle.

What sets you apart from other candidates?

Having spent the past three years on the board, I have a track record of being honest, truthful and a team player who values integrity and works with the best interest of all of South Brunswick. I also bring the experience of the past three years to the table which I think will be of great value given the budgetary challenges we are heading into.

What else would you like to share about yourself or your campaign?

I would like the voters to know that I am driven by an intention to serve. I do not accept campaign contributions and I am not spending a lot of money on my campaign because I strongly believe money should be kept out of school board elections. It is the question of our children’s future and that is not to be trifled with.

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