South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education candidates receive local endorsements

Four candidates are competing for three seats on the nine-member South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education this fall, according to Village Green. The candidates are Trish Azeez, Liz Callahan, Kevin Diaz, and Will Meyer.

Former South Orange Council Member Bobby Brown endorsed Trish Azeez, highlighting her leadership skills, advocacy for children, and professional background in economics and research analysis. Brown emphasized Azeez's problem-solving approach and commitment to representing students effectively.

Current South Orange Council Member Olivia Lewis-Chang endorsed Liz Callahan, Kevin Diaz, and Will Meyer. She praised their dedication to supporting children with disabilities, addressing bullying and mental health, advocating for LGBTQ+ students, and promoting governance and sustainability. Lewis-Chang stressed the importance of evidence-based decision-making and dialogue with stakeholders.

Former South Orange Council Member Bill Haskins and former Maplewood officials Deb Engel and David Huemer also endorsed Callahan, Diaz, and Meyer. Haskins highlighted Diaz's community engagement, focus on special education, integration, healthy school environments, budget transparency, and facilities improvements.

The endorsements reflect a range of priorities and leadership qualities that the endorsers believe will benefit the South Orange-Maplewood school district. The election is scheduled for November 3rd, when voters will choose three candidates to join the Board of Education.