msockol 2.0

I was recently asked to write this Board of Education column which appeared in the August editions of the Holmdel Happenings and Holmdel Journal.

One summer while I was in college, I worked as a janitor in a local elementary school.  Spending eight hours a day scrubbing desks and scraping off dried bubble gum offered vivid evidence that a school district stays busy even during the hazy days of summer.

Summer is a time for taking stock, anticipating challenges, and setting goals to ensure our school district continues to provide one of the best public educational systems in the country.   It’s a … Continue Reading

On Tuesday, voters in Holmdel will make two key decisions–who do they want on the Board of Education and do they approve the proposed school budget for the 2010-11 school year.

Over the last few days, the school district has posted more details about the proposed budget and the staffing cuts that will take place, even if the budget passes.   According to district’s newsletter, 16 positions will be eliminated, including one administrator, 6 teachers, and 9 non-certified staff members.  The Board has also asked all staff members to accept a salary freeze. 

The school district’s home page has more details, including … Continue Reading

From the Independent, April 8 Edition:

I can’t remember a time when the Holmdel school district faced more financial challenges than it does today.  It looks likely that the school board will need to make cuts  involving not only non-essential services, but possibly more painful cuts in programming and staffing even if the proposed budget passes.  It’s essential that we elect board members who can stay fair and flexible and make decisions that have the interests of the entire community in mind.

That’s why I’m supporting Mike Sockol’s candidacy for the Holmdel Board of Education.

First, Mike has always been fair and reasonable.  … Continue Reading