At the last Presidential General Election, November 3,  2020, there were 21,631 people in Princeton registered to vote. Back then, during the height of the COVID pandemic, where 95% of votes were cast by mail, 14,338, or 66% of those eligible, cast their vote. In 2016, only 56% of eligible voters turned out, with 10,817 Princeton voters weighing in.

This year, with the Presidential race on the line along with candidates for Senate, House of Representatives, Board of County Commissioners, Princeton Mayor, Council and Board of Education on the ballot, how many will take part in this inalienable right?

Princeton Perspectives helps you to do so by once again providing you all you need to know about how and where to vote along with details about every major party candidate you will find on your ballot.

The deadline to register to vote was yesterday, October 15^th, so if you missed it, you would have to sit this year out. The important deadline to take note of now is November 5^th, the final date to cast your vote.

VOTING METHODS

Throughout Mercer County, new voting machines were implemented for Early Voting in 2023, and they will be used for all in-person voting this year. Voting can be done in three ways in New Jersey: Vote by Mail, Early Voting and Election Day. The government has worked to make voting easy and accessible, but planning is key.

If you registered to vote, but did not complete your application to Vote by Mail, you can access it here. This application will provide that the mail-in ballot is sent you, which then must be filled out and returned by 8 pm on Election Day, November 5^th, to any Drop Box (in Princeton you’ll find them at the Princeton Municipal Building on Witherspoon St. and the Princeton University Wawa/Dinky Station on Alexander St.), mailed back (postage pre-paid and postmarked by Nov 5^th) or returned in person to the Mercer County Board of Elections.

If you plan to take part in Early Voting, there are seven locations throughout Mercer County that can be utilized by all voters, regardless of your voting district, between October 26^th and November 3^rd, Wednesday – Saturday: 10am to 8pm, Sunday: 10am to 6pm. In Princeton, the Early Voting will be held at the Princeton Municipal Building Community Room, 400 Witherspoon Street.

If Voting on Election Day is your desire, polls will be open from 6am to 8pm on Tuesday November 5^th. Your polling location will be printed on the front of the sample ballot mailed to your home.

THE CANDIDATES

To educate yourself about the candidates and help to make an informed decision, Princeton Perspectives reached out to every major party candidate you will see on your ballot. You can read through by office, to gain insight and understanding about past experiences, viewpoints, and priority issues for each. Should you desire, at the top right of this article, we have a jump menu that allows you to go directly to a specific elected position and those candidates. Because we are a hyperlocal publication, we are presenting the offices that will only serve New Jersey, from bottom to top of the ballot order, with each candidate listed in straight ballot order.

PRINCETON’S POLITICAL CANDIDATES

PRINCETON COUNCIL CANDIDATES: Leighton Newlin (D) and Brian McDonald (D)

This year, two seats are opening on Council and there are two Democratic candidates vying for them. One is the incumbent, running for re-election, and the other is new to this office. The position is for a three-year term. As the races are uncontested, no minimum vote is required to get elected.

LEIGHTON NEWLIN (D) is running for his second term on Council, citing there is still much more work to be done and he wakes up each day inspired to represent.

“Leadership should reflect our values and diversity, and I take that responsibility seriously,” says Newlin. “Throughout my first term, we’ve made strides in building a comprehensive infrastructure of care – enhancing affordability, human and social services, transportation, public safety, and the arts. But for me, it’s not about individual achievements; it’s about being local, not being hard to find, and understanding the everyday impact of our decisions on people’s lives.”

In a second term, Newlin hopes to work to rebuild Princeton’s public housing, take a closer look at the impact of absentee landlords, affordable housing, mobility and focus on promoting and supporting DEI initiatives through programming.

“I thrive on being a good neighbor, staying engaged, and meeting people where they are. I don’t take this role lightly—I’m here to listen, advocate, and act. I’m only getting started, and I’m excited to continue this journey for our community. Together, there’s so much more we can accomplish!” he adds.

Brian McDonald (D) is seeking to join Council, filling the seat being vacated by three-term Councilwoman Eve Niedergang. As he completes his sixth year on the Princeton Public Schools Board of Education (PPS BOE), he feels his 25 years of service to the Princeton area make him the right man for this job.

“I’m very familiar with Princeton and have demonstrated a high level of commitment to my community. I believe that my skill set and my work experience, including my first career as a municipal finance professional, make me well suited to serve as a member of Princeton Council. I work hard, believe in data-driven decision making when possible, and am open, honest, caring and compassionate,” McDonald shares.

McDonald, who was approached by several local leaders to pursue this opportunity when Niedergang announced she would not seek re-election, felt like it was the right next step after his experiences, not just on PPS BOE but also on other local boards including McCarter Theater, The Watershed Institute and Sustainable Princeton. McDonald also feels 11 years as a Princeton Little League coach coupled with seven years as part of the Citizen’s Finance Advisory Committee make him a strong candidate, prepared to take on what he describes as his top priorities, if elected.

“First, to consistently deliver excellent municipal services as efficiently as possible to keep tax increases as low as possible. Second, as our community grows, to ensure that the growth is smart, strategic, and carefully managed. Third, to work for ALL residents with a special focus on the needs of our most vulnerable residents, including children, senior citizens and members of the community who experience food, housing and financial insecurity,” explains McDonald. “I have a personal passion for sustainability and that will also be a major area of focus for me.”

PRINCETON MAYORAL CANDIDATE: Mark Freda (D)

This year, the incumbent is running unopposed for re-election to another four-year term.

Mark Freda (D) is looking to continue as Princeton’s Mayor, offering what he describes as invested and effective leadership. He says there are four main reasons that he has chosen to run again.

“One, I believe I bring significant leadership and experience to the role of the mayor. Two, I believe I make a difference being in the role of mayor. Three, I am motivated to do what I can to help our town; there is no personal agenda or need to take credit for what we accomplish. I want to move us ahead and get things done. Four, I enjoy the work. It is a lot of work and a lot of time. But having lived here my entire life, it is good work and worth the time and effort.”

Freda feels, working with Council, staff and the public, his administration has achieved a great deal in the past four years including involving more people in the financial processes therefore creating more open and robust reviews of operating and capital budgets. While many politicians preach transparency, Freda believes he and his colleagues have worked hard towards this goal. Part of this includes efforts to show up, engage with and respond to all constituents throughout his term. Freda feels there is still a lot to be done through another term.

“There is a demand and a need for housing that is affordable. Not just mandated affordable housing, but that next level of housing. It is now one of our goals; but we need to find ways to address this. Two, density, where does it make sense? How much makes sense? More public discussion on this is needed. Three, transportation, can we come up with a well thought out and functioning public transportation system?” Freda mentions, amongst many other important initiatives.

MERCER COUNTY CANDIDATES

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES: Samuel Frisby (D), Andrew Curcio (R), Kristin McLaughlin (D), Pedro Reyes (R), Terrance Stokes (D), and Denise “Neicy” Turner (R)

29% of your property tax bill goes to the county. This year there are six candidates (three of which are incumbents) running to fill three open seats on the legislative branch of county government, the Board of County Commissioners.

Samuel Frisby (D) is running to retain his seat as a County Commissioner after two terms in office. He says he most proud of the way his board fought for and helped the community throughout the pandemic. He also highlights his work to diversify Mercer County’s vendors through the creation of the Mercer County Set-Aside program ordinance, which expands opportunities for businesses owned by veterans, women, LGBTQ and minorities to contract with the county.

Frisby says he loves listening to constituents and working to create an administration that can meet their needs.

“There are several projects that I have strongly supported which I would like to see through to completion, such as, the completion of the county airport expansion, which will be a foundational hub for economic growth in our county.  The airport redevelopment project will be the largest upgrade in over a generation to the Trenton-Mercer Airport, this transformative process is vital to increasing our competitive standing. The largest responsibility of a County Commissioner lies in the fidelity of our County’s fiduciary responsibilities to the budget, for our citizens. I remain committed to ensuring our county recovers from the previous administration’s financial mismanagement that left us with 11 million dollars of deferred charges,” Frisby states.

If re-elected, Frisby looks forward to continuing his work under the new leadership of Dan Benson, appreciating the levels of transparency and vision he says are now in place.

Andrew Curcio (R) is vying to become a County Commissioner because he wants to be a voice for the people. Growing up in poverty in Trenton, to an alcoholic father, Curcio says he knows what it’s like to struggle.

“I’ve been there. I’m here for them. I am their voice. I will go to Congress for them. I will go to the Statehouse for them. There is a way for us to help the school and property taxes, we can lower them,” he says.

With a 20-year history as a State worker, Curcio knows what it’s like to work hard and live on a tight budget. He’s been a grounds worker, bought goods for the state, handled inventory for the armories and is now working with the vehicles for the Department of Corrections. Curcio, along with his fellow Republican candidates, pledges to take a 10% pay cut (from the $39,000 salary) and to refuse health benefits. He says this could save taxpayers more than $103,000 annually, per commissioner. Money that he promises to put towards the budget and hopes will give people the break they need.

“As a Republican, we can make a difference. I will listen to people. I will fight for the people,” Curcio explains. “I see fire departments and police departments merging – they’re not using the money for the community. It’s going into people’s pockets. They are giving people promotions – part time people are making 6-figure salaries. I don’t make that! It’s the time to give back to the people.”

Kristin McLaughlin (D) says there are two simple reasons that she is hoping to retain her seat for a second term as County Commissioner.

“One, I enjoy working with our residents, business owners, NGO’s, clergy, kids, and the people who are elected to represent them to help solve challenges and grow opportunities in Mercer County so people can build their lives and pursue their goals here. Two, as a County Commissioner, my work is simply not done yet. With the previous administration, I was focused on promoting transparency and making sure the public knew about the ongoing issues that were quietly and constantly being swept under the rug. With the new administration there is a shared commitment to transparency which now allows me to focus on other goals.”

McLaughlin says under the Benson administration she looks forward to implementing the Mercer County Master Plan, which includes plans for preserving more open space to create more room for recreation, which she has long sought out. She also hopes to better enlighten the community about all the county is responsible for, such as recycling, providing transportation for those who need, running the CURE Insurance Arena and Trenton Thunder Ballpark, offering a community college, technical schools and more.

“One additional area of focus for me is economic development, “McLaughlin notes. “Mercer County is ready for business, with firms of all sizes. The Commissioner Board passed and regularly champions our set-aside program which ensures that a portion of county dollars are spent on minority owned, veteran owned, and women owned businesses. I am very interested in working with County Executive Benson to foster growth that reaches all corners of the county.”

As a member the legislative branch of county government, McLaughlin and her fellow commissioners oversee and adopt the budget. She says she feels the new administration better supports their goals and hopes to continue working in partnership for the residents of Mercer County.

Pedro Reyes (R), an executive in the manufacturing industry, is running for County Commissioner to give back to the country that has given him so much. An immigrant from Dominican Republic, Reyes came as a child and grew up with the belief that hard work can lead to better things. He says change and effective leadership, fiscal responsibility and transparency is what Mercer County needs.

“The current commissioners have been in their roles long enough to allow severe financial mismanagement to take root, resulting in $4.5 million in fines and interest levied by the state comptroller’s office. This gross mismanagement has contributed to unnecessary property tax increases in the 2024 budget, further burdening our residents,” he explains.

For his part, Reyes and his fellow Republican candidates say they’ll start trimming spending on day one by not taking County benefits, proposing a 10% pay cut in Commissioner salaries and putting a freeze on those salaries. He says they also want to put forth term limits for this role, to prevent another cycle of years of trouble before someone is willing to speak up.

“It’s about putting politics aside and tackling the significant issues facing Mercer County. When there is no balance in government, situations like our current financial crisis arise,” Reyes states. “We need to restore balance, and that means holding leadership accountable, whether they’re Republican, Democrat, or Independent. Our focus is on fiscal responsibility, efficient spending, and eliminating the waste that have contributed to our financial problems. It’s time to stop the waste and start solving the issues.”

Terrance Stokes (D) also feels there is more work to be done, should he get re-elected to serve a 2^nd term as County Commissioner.

“I am seeking re-election as a County Commissioner to continue being a voice for marginalized and underrepresented communities. I want to continue advocating for increasing the representation of small, minority, women and Black-owned businesses in awarding county contracts. I want to continue moving the airport project forward. I want to continue advocating for and implementing sustainable environmental policies.”

Over the past term, Stokes says he was a supporter of preservation and open space, something he seeks to continue. His past experiences set him up with other future goals as well.

“I will continue to support investments in roadway and infrastructure improvements as well as working closely with our municipalities to ensure that county government meets their needs and is being equitable in the distribution of resources.  Lastly, I want to work on positioning the CURE Insurance Arena as a revenue generating facility,” Stokes shares.

Denise “Neicy” Turner (R) is seeking the seat of County Commissioner, hoping to apply her real-world experience of fiscal responsibility and service to fellow citizens. As Owner and Director of Trenton’s Green Acres Day Care for 17 years and simultaneously working as a Medical Security Officer at the Ann Klein Forensic Center in Ewing, she has gained perceptive insights.

“When opportunity knocked to run for elected office, I was honored to answer,” said Turner. “My private-sector experience makes me an excellent candidate for Mercer County Commissioner. But more importantly, it will enable me, if elected, to ably serve on behalf of all citizens of Mercer County who rely on the Board of Mercer County Commissioners for astute judgment in key areas including the county budget and county contracts.”

Turner was born in Neptune City, NJ and has lived in Trenton for the past 25 years. A graduate of Trenton Central High School, the mother and grandmother is an active member of Greater Harvest World Wide Ministries, a Baptist church located in Trenton.

“I am proud to be part of this team of Republican candidates. We’re all working hard to share the Republican position on key issues with as many potential voters as possible on the campaign trail,” Turner adds.

NATIONAL CANDIDATES

DISTRICT 12 CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES: Bonnie Watson Coleman (D) and Darius Mayfield (R)

This year, the 12^th Congressional District has four candidates on the ballot. Running for a 2-year term, the incumbent Democrat and Republican contender are listed alongside two candidates nominated by petition. We will highlight the major party candidates here.

Bonnie Watson Coleman (D) is running for her sixth term as U.S. Representative for the 12^th Congressional District.

Through the years she has focused efforts on criminal justice reform, job creation and an improved economy, healthcare issues with a strong focus on those for women, worked to reform the gas pipeline approval process and more. She is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Progressive Caucus, the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.

According to her latest newsletter, Watson Coleman’s efforts over the past month have included highlighting and addressing the impacts mental health and suicide have on Black youth, co-leading efforts against Black girls being treated differently than their white peers in school, introducing a bill that would help to push for studies linking uterine cancer to hair straighteners and was working to avert a government shutdown.

Darius Mayfield (R) is running for a second time to unseat the incumbent.

“In 2022, despite becoming the first county (Mercer County) in American history to have every single Dominion Voting Machine turned off on the day of election, we still brought Bonnie Watson Coleman down to her lowest numbers ever in her 30+ year political career. That in itself warranted another run,” Mayfield shares.

Mayfield says his love of all people has been proven through the way he talks and acts with others as well as in his policy. With a background in sales and executive management, he feels he has the experience needed to negotiate for what District 12 needs most. Mayfield believes his rise from a childhood in Section 8 housing to a life of successful business and philanthropy make him the ideal candidate to lead our country to change.

“What makes the landscape different this year is the historical failure of the Biden/Harris Administration and the clear distinction between their administration failures and the tangible successes of the Trump Administration. Because of this, I believe we are about to witness a Reagan-esque type victory on November 5th, which will ultimately propel quality candidates like me.”

U.S. SENATE (NJ): Andy Kim (D) and Curtis Bashaw (R)

Senator Bob Menendez had been a Senator for New Jersey since 2006. His seat became vacant in August, when he resigned amid convictions for his involvement in a bribery scheme. Governor Phil Murphy then appointed his former Chief of Staff, George Helmy, to fill the vacant seat. Helmy is not running to retain the seat, so it is open for a 6-year term. Two Senate newcomers are vying to win it.

Andy Kim (D) is completing his third term as U.S. Representative for the Third Congressional District, which includes East Windsor, Hamilton, Hightstown, Lawrence and Robbinsville as well as parts of Burlington and Monmouth Counties. While he wants to become New Jersey’s next Senator, becoming a politician wasn’t what he set out to do.

“Before I ran for office, I worked in diplomacy under both Republicans and Democrats, in war zones abroad and here at home. But when my hometown congressman made it clear that he was leading the charge with then-President Donald Trump to strip away the Affordable Care Act which would have impacted my family and so many others in New Jersey, I knew I needed to step up to give voters a choice,” Kim recalls. “Our grassroots movement has continued to grow, helping us win the Primary in June while creating a massive coalition of voters from across the state who are ready for change.”

Kim was running against Sen. Menendez, who backed out in March after being indicted on 16 counts related to a bribery scheme. Kim then beat out Governor Murphy’s wife, Tammy, for the Democratic ticket. As a Senator, he says he hopes to turn the seat back into one of honor and integrity.

“I decided to step up and run for this Senate seat, challenging a member of my own party, because I wanted to offer a new vision of what was possible in regard to New Jersey politics,” explains Kim. “I’ve represented my hometown in Congress since 2019, and I’ve done so by putting service and people first. I’ve held a town hall every month since being sworn-in, and that’s let me directly hear from people about their priorities and what they want to see from me. I’ve worked from my first month to address corruption issues – working to fight big money in politics, writing a bill that would prevent members of Congress from trading individual stocks and getting rich off their positions, and working to hold every part of our federal government more accountable to the people.”

Curtis Bashaw (R) is a political outsider vying for the Senate seat. A married gay man who is pro-choice, Bashaw went from being a bellhop and waiter to hotel entrepreneur as Founder and Managing Partner of Cape Resorts. He feels now is the time that Independents, Republicans, and Democrats want something different.

“In a year when corrupt U.S. Senator Bob Menendez has dominated the headlines, New Jersey voters are fed up with career politicians, chaos at the border, and out of control inflation. They don’t want another typical Democrat DC insider, like Rep. Andy Kim, who votes with his party 99% of the time,” Bashaw states.

Bashaw has chosen to run for Senate because he believes the founding fathers intended for citizen leaders to step up and serve.

“Curtis has a proven track record as a business leader and job creator who can bring different interests and parties together to get things done for the greater good. He did that with the restoration of Congress Hall and other historic properties in Cape May, which led to a revitalization of the area’s tourism economy. And he will deliver the same results for New Jersey,” explains a Bashaw spokesperson.

OTHER POLITICAL RACES

Since the race for President of the United States is widely covered across national press, we will leave it to the other media to shine light on that race.

We do, also, recognize there is a major race for Princeton Public Schools Board of Education. In Princeton, this is a non-partisan position, so we have dedicated another article to share everything you need to know. Click here to read all about the candidates and their positions.

Lisa Jacknow

Lisa Jacknow spent years working in national and local news in and around New York City before moving to Princeton. Working as both a TV producer and news reporter, Lisa came to this area to focus on the local news of Mercer County at WZBN-TV. In recent years, she got immersed in the Princeton community by serving leadership roles at local schools in addition to volunteering for other local non-profits. In her free time, Lisa loves to spend time with her family, play tennis, sing and play the piano. A graduate of the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, Lisa was raised just north of Boston, Massachusetts but has lived in the tri-state area since college. She is excited to be Editor and head writer for Princeton Perspectives!

Whether you head to the polls or Vote by Mail, you will be voting for more than political candidates this November, as this General Election also includes choices for Princeton Public School’s non-partisan Board of Education. Three seats are opening up, though two of the incumbents are not seeking re-election. That means Princeton voters will be choosing up to three new members to join the Board.

While you are considering who will get your vote, it is important to think about some of the big items that will be decided by this new Board. Earlier this month, the Superintendent Search Committee put out a survey and held meetings to get input from different engagement groups, but ultimately the deciding vote about who will next lead Princeton Public Schools falls to the new Board. Additionally, an $85-89m bond referendum is expected to be put up for a vote in January 2025. Decisions about this referendum and how any approved monies are apportioned will be handled by the existing and new Board as well.

47% of your property tax bill goes to Princeton Public Schools so, how do you decide who will best represent you and be good stewards of that money? Pulling together all the information you have gathered from candidates’ forums and other publications is important but can also be daunting. So, we have worked to simplify the process for you, creating an easy comparison tool to help you know who the candidates are and where each of them stands.

We asked all six candidates the same questions, including perspectives about the issues just mentioned and more. Their responses are posted in alphabetical order, not ballot order (as pictured below for reference). For each of our six important questions, just click on the + next to each candidate’s name to compare their responses.

Prior to becoming a candidate this year, in what ways have you been involved with PPS and what specific insights has it given you?

Mara Franceschi

I have been actively involved with the Princeton Public Schools since I first moved to Princeton 14 years ago and joined the Johnson Park Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) as Treasurer at my very first PTO meeting. My long and significant involvement with the schools has given me a lot of institutional knowledge. Dr. Foster is the fifth superintendent I have worked with (though the first I was involved in hiring), giving me a solid sense of what skill sets have worked well previously and are important to the community. This depth of knowledge has greatly enhanced my effectiveness as a board member charged with overseeing the breadth of district business, from curriculum and student health, wellness and safety, to finances, operations and future planning.

Ari Meisel

I have been involved with PPS as a member of the Princeton Middle School PTO Executive Board, which has allowed me to work closely with parents and school administrators to address concerns and improve the school experience. Additionally, I served on the [municipal] Committee on Affordable Housing, Racial, Social, and Economic Equity, where I gained valuable insights into the systemic barriers faced by many students in our district. Through my role in these committees, I have seen firsthand the need for increased resources for underrepresented students and better communication between the district and families to ensure equitable access to education for all.

Z. Lisa Potter

I’ve been actively involved in Princeton Public Schools as a booster officer for the Princeton High School football and cheer programs for the past 2.5 years. Volunteering in these roles provided insight into the importance of extracurricular activities and the challenges of securing funding to support these invaluable student experiences. Many coaches, who also are full-time teachers, and parents, who work full-time, bear the responsibility of fundraising. If elected, I’d like to explore how resource allocation for extracurriculars can better support these programs without placing additional strain on the staff, coaches, and families.

Christopher Santarpio

I’ve served in many volunteer roles within the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) since my son started at Community Park School, ranging from class parent to chair of the annual school-wide STEAM Day event, for which I built connections with numerous individuals and organizations throughout the Princeton area to present STEAM topics to students. Most recently, I have been serving my 2nd year as PTO Co-President. Additionally, I stay actively informed about the management of Princeton Public Schools by regularly attending Board of Education meetings, BOE committee meetings, and Parent Teacher Organization Council (PTOC) meetings. Last year, all four elementary schools worked together to share ideas and insights amongst us. We can build upon this collaborative approach within the district. We can also further build bridges and foster collaboration with the town and other external organizations. It is my belief that everyone here wants our schools to be the best they can be, and I want to roll up my sleeves and be a part of this bright future!

Erica Snyder

In my three years in the district, I have been involved with the Community Park Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) serving in the roles of Photo Day Leader, 5th grade Yearbook Committee, and I am now in my second year as co-PTO President where my main tasks have been fundraising. Being co-PTO President gave me a seat on the PTO Council where I observed how the PTOs worked together, with the district, to tackle big questions and issues that faced the district. In these roles, I have seen the board dynamic on focused topics, the strong leadership of Dr. Foster and Dr. Tew, and I have learned of areas where we can unite our schools to work toward common goals for all students. These experiences have built my understanding of the amazing community partners and programs and how we can improve our relationships and build momentum in the future.

Shenwei Zhao

Since moving to Princeton in 2016, I have been actively engaged in various PPS issues as a community member. These include the Cranbury Send-Receive Agreement (SRA) discussion, the 2018 referendum, 2022 PPS Strategic Planning Core group, the 2023 proposed math curriculum change, and the protest over the abrupt firing of the PHS principal. Through these involvements, I have come to understand that PPS represents a very diverse community, making it challenging to balance the interests of all stakeholders. Despite this complexity, the board has increasingly made decisions unanimously, which does not always capture the full range of perspectives on the issues.

A need to focus support on Black and Brown students is one BOE candidates have shared with Princeton Perspectives year after year. Do you believe there have been tangible support improvements and outcomes in this area over the past 5 years and if not, what changes would you recommend could make a bigger difference?

Mara Franceschi

Last week the Board heard about encouraging performance gains year-to-year for PPS students of all demographic groups, although some unacceptable gaps remain. Looking ahead, the introduction of the proven Orton-Gillingham structured approach to literacy at our elementary schools is an improvement that I am most excited about. Orton-Gillingham benefits all our children but will hopefully reduce over-classification and begin to significantly close the achievement gap that we see with our Black and Brown children. Focusing on early intervention, the district aims to remedy literacy skill deficits before third grade to narrow persistent achievement gaps.

Ari Meisel

While some efforts have been made to address the needs of Black and Brown students, there is still a long way to go. Tangible improvements require a focus on equitable access to educational resources, culturally relevant curriculum, and mentorship programs. I believe we need to create stronger partnerships with community organizations to provide holistic support for students, ensuring they not only succeed academically but feel fully included and valued within the school system.

Z. Lisa Potter

While there have been efforts to support Black and Brown students in recent years, the outcomes still are not where they need to be. I believe that more tangible improvements can be made by increasing the accessibility of academic and extracurricular opportunities, ensuring that all students feel empowered to take advantage of these resources. Additionally, focusing on mental health support and mentorship programs tailored to address their unique challenges could make a big difference in their overall school experience. It’s essential to continually measure the effectiveness of these programs and adjust strategies accordingly to ensure tangible, lasting progress.

Christopher Santarpio

There is have been incremental tangible support improvements in the past 5 years. However, it is my opinion that we have so much more work to do in this area, especially since a pillar within the PPS Strategic Plan is “Opportunity and Achievement for All.” These are not new issues that we face, but they are ones that PPS will need to focus on to help bring additional support for Black and Brown students. One example where Princeton has made progress is in the early childhood education arena with the expansion of universal PreK. Universal PreK access has a significant impact on future academic performance. The learning gaps become less pronounced with universal early childhood education before our students enter elementary school. A few examples I can share that I believe would further help outcomes and make a difference in this effort are teacher training and recruitment as well as community engagement. In terms of teacher recruitment, teacher diversity helps our students see role models who reflect their own varied backgrounds. Engagement is always at the forefront of my mind. If our schools successfully build robust partnerships within our communities, it will support students both inside and outside the classroom. There are also other approaches that PPS can take in tandem with regular assessment and community feedback as to what will best serve our Black and Brown students’ needs.

Erica Snyder

The testing data shows marginal gains, but that doesn’t mean more improvement doesn’t exist in other ways around the schools. If one kid is reading at a higher level or one kid feels safer or more accepted, then that is tangible, just on a small scale. In order to make bigger impacts, we need to shift the culture around teaching and learning to focus more on literacy and the skills found in portrait of a graduate. Test scores in any subject will not improve if reading levels are low, students aren’t seeing real world connections between what they’re learning and life after high school, or if students are disengaged. We will see a big difference if we shift to more interdisciplinary content, practical and relevant application of that same content and support reading at all levels.

Shenwei Zhao

I don’t have sufficient data to show whether the district’s efforts have had a positive or negative impact. Rather than focusing solely on what the district can or is willing to do, changes I would recommend include engaging Black and Brown students and their families in ongoing, active dialogues to understand the support they need. By working together, the community and the district can establish measurable goals to track educational outcomes and assess the effectiveness of these efforts.

Anti-Jewish hate crimes accounted for 67% of all religiously motivated hate crimes last year, according to a recent report from the FBI, and we’ve seen incidents of this nature in our own Princeton community. While PPS has a mandatory racial literacy curriculum for students in grade 6 and above and has asserted a zero-tolerance policy for antisemitism, numerous Jewish parents and students told the administration and Board of Education at public meetings last spring that they do not feel it is serving their community and that more needs to be done. What changes would you suggest to PPS to ensure all families feel seen, heard and understood and what role do you feel public schools have in dismantling hate?

Mara Franceschi

While the public schools can’t solve all the problems in the community, by working together we can ensure that our children grow up in a community that is kind and tolerant of all. PPS administration is actively working to bolster a culture of kindness in our schools including through assemblies with Seeds of Peace. Over the summer, staff was reminded of PPS policies and instructed to immediately address unkindness when they see it. To address any specific instances of hate, a formal HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) complaint is the most effective manner for the Board to be made aware of the incident and enforce its zero-tolerance policy.

Ari Meisel

PPS should expand its curriculum to include comprehensive education on various cultures and religions starting at earlier grades. Establishing open dialogues with affected communities can help address specific concerns and foster understanding. I suggest creating a diversity and inclusion task force that includes students, parents, and educators to proactively address issues of hate. One of my main focuses should I get onto the board will be on making all students feel physically and mentally safe.

Z. Lisa Potter

I deeply empathize with the fear that many Jewish parents feel as a result of generational trauma. Any situation where a student feels unsafe or marginalized constitutes a violation of the district's Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) policy, and it must be addressed immediately, regardless of the student's background. I believe that all forms of hate, discrimination, and intolerance need to be actively addressed in order to foster a safe learning environment for everyone. I would want to work with the fellow board members and the superintendent to ensure that we foster an inclusive, respectful, and secure environment for all students.

Christopher Santarpio

We want our students to be “Informed and Involved Global Citizens” per our district’s Strategic Plan. To achieve this goal, there are a few actions that could support this effort. For one, our students must be taught to value diversity of all kinds, including varied backgrounds in religion, language, race, gender, ability, socio-economic status, orientation/identity, country-of-origin, etc. In addition to stressing the value of, and respect for, diversity, PPS should also foster inclusion by actively pursuing family and community engagement. I believe we can make strides in this area, so all PPS students feel included and safe.

Erica Snyder

When families don’t feel seen, heard or understood, I think it is important to encourage open dialogue. That might look like holding an open forum for all concerned parents on both sides of the issue that can be moderated so that people feel heard, doing research on what other districts best practices are and what that might look like if we chose to revise or implement a new policy in Princeton, or consultants or experts may need to be brought in to educate the board on the topic in order to better make a change and support those families. Public schools have the role of educating against hate to all and to encourage people to remember that the end goal isn’t necessarily the policy or words on paper, but how it is implemented to make sure all kids feel safe and heard.

Shenwei Zhao

Fostering a tolerant, kind, supportive, and inclusive environment extends beyond classrooms. On my campaign website (ShenweiforBoE.org), I emphasize the importance of “Build schools as community connectors”, which requires active participation from the entire community, led by school. Our town’s diversity means divisiveness in any format could directly affect those sitting next to our children in the school. Every group, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, could potentially be impacted by historical or current events in the world. Public schools play a vital role in teaching students to use critical thinking, grounded in balanced facts and respectful dialogue, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and respected. For school curricula, it is essential not to teach hate and divisiveness among different groups. School should apply rules and empathy fairly to all students.

47% of property taxes goes to Princeton Public Schools annually. Voters have additionally approved $27 million (2018), $17.5 million (2022) and $13 million (2023) in referendums in recent years. The district is now looking towards an $85-89.5 million referendum vote in January. Do you agree this is the right course of action and needed now, or do you feel there could be a different path towards what is needed in the district? Please explain.

Mara Franceschi

Referendums are the most tax-efficient way to fund school maintenance because the State of NJ reimburses up to 34% of principal and interest on bonds for qualifying renovations (not new build). The use of referendums returns state tax dollars to Princeton that would otherwise be left on the table and go to other districts. Given a 2% operating budget levy cap, there are no extra funds in the budget for large one-time maintenance ticket items such as new roofs, new HVAC, or new security constructions, for example. Without additional space, in the very near term, we will be tasked with the difficult decisions of redistricting, increasing class sizes, possibly moving art and music to carts, reducing academic offerings, and other solutions to convert all available spaces to classrooms. The town is projecting population growth around 10% and a further fair share plan will be finalized by June 2025. We will then learn where subsequent Alices and Avalons will be built. The proposed January referendum, however, is statutorily not allowed to consider this future growth. It only addresses the immediate and near-term growth we have already experienced. Westminster may offer a future board a perfectly situated property to creatively and cost effectively answer possible future capacity needs; however, in the near term, the January referendum is the most cost-effective answer to respond to immediate uneven growth capacity issues.

Ari Meisel

I believe we must strike a balance between addressing the district's needs and ensuring fiscal responsibility. While the referendum may be necessary for infrastructure improvements and student services, we must explore alternative funding sources, such as state grants and partnerships with local organizations, to ease the burden on taxpayers. Transparency in how funds are allocated and a clear plan for the referendum's impact will be crucial to gaining the community's trust.

Z. Lisa Potter

While I recognize that funding for maintenance and improvement of our schools is required, it's crucial that we fully understand the long-term financial impact on taxpayers, especially given that several referendums have been passed in recent years. It’s important to prioritize projects that directly enhance educational outcomes for our students while being mindful of not placing undue financial burdens on our community. I would advocate for a more transparent breakdown of the referendum's benefits and costs and would encourage exploring alternative funding solutions, such as grants or partnerships, in order to minimize the tax impact while still meeting the district’s needs.

Christopher Santarpio

First and foremost, I believe strongly in understanding and solving any PPS capacity issues. Many of our school facilities are either partially condemned or outdated, and the more recent referendums have directly resulted in positive improvements in essential security, maintenance and upgrades to our buildings that have been desperately needed. I believe that every Princeton resident wants great schools and, at the same time, wants the Board of Education to be good financial stewards of taxpayer money. Undoubtedly, a future referendum will be needed to ensure that Princeton continues its focus on providing the highest quality public education to our all our town’s children. I’m a strong believer in the power of collaboration and communication, especially when viewed in the context of significant projects. As a person who has been engaged and invested in the Long-Term Planning of our schools, I’ve observed varied and shifting iterations in school enrollment projections from the district Administration over the last several years. There is no doubt that our schools need improvements and any clearly identified capacity issues need to be appropriately addressed. As a strong supporter of Princeton Public Schools, I hope and expect to see district leadership move forward with their next significant referendum in a manner that instills confidence and excitement throughout our community.

Erica Snyder

I think there is a need for a referendum, though the board recently indicated the larger proposed number may be broken down into smaller questions, so changes might be coming for the proposal in January. Our infrastructure in our existing facilities was ignored for too long and the buildings need work now to prevent further deterioration, escalating costs while addressing the need for increased capacity. The Westminster property offers some exciting options to solve longer term issues including a pre-K center, a potential 5/6 building, shared arts facilities for the middle and high school and potentially affordable housing for teachers. I believe it is a blend of what we need now and what might be possible for the future of the district.

Shenwei Zhao

As a parent, my instinct is to support spending what improves our schools and I believed this is why Princeton taxpayers, many of whom don’t have children in the PPS, have been generous over the years. However, for this upcoming referendum that the current BOE has decided to put to a vote, I am unsure if it is the right move at this time. With the declining trend of national birth rate, the actual decreasing enrollment number at PPS in the past few years, and the broader macroeconomic conditions, it seems less prudent. Additionally, asking taxpayers to approve a referendum three years in a row could strain the relationship between the district and the community. It may be wise to pause on further financial requests from the community for now.

PPS has just opened its Superintendent search, for a new leader to begin July 2025. What does PPS most need in this role and what is the first thing you hope they would focus on when arriving at PPS?

Mara Franceschi

I would love to hire a clone, if it were possible, of our current interim superintendent Dr. Kathie Foster. The specific trait that I believe makes Dr. Foster such a superstar is her proactive approach in immediately reaching out personally to the community, her staff, or the family of a student to discuss any issues. She is not only able to effectively handle the administrative duties of her job but does so with kindness and empathy. It is her accessibility to all her constituents that makes her such a powerful superintendent.

Ari Meisel

PPS needs a Superintendent who prioritizes equity, innovation, and community engagement. The first focus should be on building trust with educators, students, and parents by listening to their concerns and fostering a sense of collaboration. Addressing gaps in student preparedness and ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have the resources they need to succeed should be at the forefront of their agenda.

Z. Lisa Potter

PPS needs a visionary leader with a proven track record of improving student outcomes and fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture. The next superintendent must prioritize rebuilding trust within the community, both with parents and staff, ensuring open lines of communication and transparency in decision-making. Upon arrival, their first focus should be assessing the district’s leadership structure and ensuring stability, especially given the recent turnover, to inspire confidence in the administration’s long-term plans. A strong superintendent also will need to focus on addressing the diverse needs of our students while promoting academic excellence and fiscal responsibility.

Christopher Santarpio

After recently attending a focus group session with the Superintendent search firm, the firm had already received critical feedback on what it would take to succeed as the leader of the Princeton Public Schools. Qualities such as leadership and vision, communication, culture-builder, outreach to community, collaboration and financial acumen were all discussed. There was one word that resonated over and over within our focus group and the search firm team as well: trust. The Superintendent should possess all the identified skills, but most importantly the Candidate should be able to build trust within our community. This work won’t be easy and, as a community, our expectations are high. However, once PPS identifies and hires a Superintendent with these qualities, they will be able to build trust within our community and should bring about a successful partnership and bright future for all our students, families and our community.

Erica Snyder

PPS needs a Superintendent that is excited to build a legacy of excellence, ready to tackle complex challenges, able to articulate a clear and united vision for the district while being innovative in their thinking about how the district runs. I hope that the new superintendent will work to make the culture of the schools and learning environment more inclusive of all students, encourage kindness and empathy, and work to understand the different community challenges that reside in Princeton. I hope they spend time observing first since there is so much to learn about the district and all stakeholders. The new Superintendent should take time to visit each building, observe how the staff’s function, take note of strengths and opportunities that exist, and talk to parents and students which would give them an operational view of what should be included in their strategic plan.

Shenwei Zhao

The challenges faced by PPS in recent years have largely stemmed from the instability within the district's senior leadership. Unfortunately, Princeton parents and taxpayers remain unaware of the underlying causes of this instability. The new superintendent must acknowledge the difficulties this has caused while also recognizing the community’s expectations for a diverse, high-achieving district. This role should be seen as an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in his or her educational career by restoring trust among stakeholders, rather than just another superintendent position. Additionally, it will be crucial to boost morale among staff and faculty following the departure of many long-time employees.

Why you? What do you bring to the table that stands apart from others running for Princeton’s Board of Education?

Mara Franceschi

As the only incumbent running for reelection, experience matters to ensure the continued success of our district. With my strong financial background, experience chairing and participating on multiple board committees including Personnel, Operations, Long-Term Planning, and Negotiations, and my long history with the district, I bring critical institutional and financial knowledge. The Board is a serious time commitment with a long learning curve. I am committed to giving the Board, our community, and, most importantly, our children, the time and professional attention to do the job well.

Ari Meisel

My unique blend of experience as an EMT, business coach and productivity expert, and active community volunteer allows me to bring a fresh, solution-oriented perspective to the Board of Education. I am committed to increasing efficiency and transparency within the district, ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need. My focus on collaboration and innovation sets me apart, as I seek to create sustainable, long-term improvements for our schools.

Z. Lisa Potter

I’m running for the Princeton Board of Education because I believe that our schools are the backbone of this community. As an immigrant, a mom of two, and a product of public education, I know how critical a strong education is to achieving success and the American dream. With over 10 years of experience in human resources, I would bring valuable insights to managing the district’s labor-related expenses, which account for at least 80% of its budget. I am committed to making thoughtful decisions that reflect the diversity and values of our community and are sustainable for future generations.

Christopher Santarpio

I am deeply invested in ensuring PPS provides a safe, inclusive, and excellent learning environment for all students. As an engaged parent and citizen, I am aware of the challenges facing our district and believe my extensive business experience, in finance, operations, and board governance, would be assets to the BoE. I hold the value of respect to be one of the most important values I embody – respect for our students, parents, families, teachers, staff, our district, and our community. I would bring a respectful and pragmatic approach. Having served on boards and having a board within our own family business, I have the depth of experience to be ready on Day 1, if elected. I will work collaboratively to tackle difficult tasks and to find solutions that benefit students and the community. I also believe that, through collaboration, we can do so much more. I would work tirelessly to collaborate within and outside PPS so that we can help build on the district’s success. As an elementary school parent, I have many years ahead of me within PPS. It is important we all work together, both within the district and within our broader community.

Erica Snyder

What sets me apart from the other candidates is my 20+ years of experience in education as a high school teacher, instructional coach for both teachers and administrators, and as the current Director of Cherry Hill Nursery School in Princeton. I have worked around our country with diverse populations in a multitude of districts and I bring that relevant experience and those innovative ideas to our board. Additionally, I have a passion for instructional technology and ensuring that all kids have access to the tools they need to be successful in a post-secondary life.

Shenwei Zhao

As someone who has been a critic of BoE for several years, I don’t claim to have easy solutions to the complex issues that current and former BoE members are spending their time and efforts on. However, I am concerned about the tendency for unanimous agreement on many topics in recent years, and I want to bring different perspectives from my life and cultural background. In addition, my professional background as an engineer and consultant over the past two decades has taught me to be very practical. Identifying and acknowledging problems are certainly first steps leading to real results. It is the hand-on efforts to roll up our sleeves and make things work that truly achieves desired outcomes. I am committed to delivering such positive outcomes to PPS parents and Princeton taxpayers.

To provide a little more background, we are also providing brief bios of each candidate here:

Mara Franceschi

Mara Franceschi is a Princeton Public School parent of three, community leader, and volunteer.  She has an MBA from Columbia University’s School of Business and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter holder. Mara has over a decade’s experience working in the financial services and asset management industries for firms such as GE Capital and Bank of America.

Since moving to Princeton fourteen years ago, Mara has volunteered extensively in and for the benefit of our schools, most recently on the Board of Education. She served seven years on the Johnson Park PTO – four years as Treasurer and three years as President, and another three years on the PTO Council. On the Board of Education, Mara has served as co-chair of the Personnel Committee and as a member of the Operations, Long-Range Planning, and Negotiations committees. Additionally, she has served on Princeton’s Citizens Finance Advisory Committee (CFAC), as Assistant Treasurer for the Friends of the Library, and continues to volunteer with many other non-profits in town.

Ari Meisel

Ari Meisel is a dedicated community leader, volunteer, and advocate for student success. As a member of the Princeton Middle School PTO Executive Board and the Princeton Committee on Affordable Housing, Racial, Social, and Economic Equity, Ari has worked closely with families, educators, and school administrators to address the needs of all students. He also serves as Vice President of the Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad, where he has led initiatives to improve public health and safety, such as CPR and Stop-the-Bleed training. Ari holds a degree from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, and is the founder of Less Doing, a productivity company that helps individuals and businesses optimize and streamline their workflows. His unique background in emergency services, business leadership, and community advocacy allows him to bring a fresh, solution-oriented perspective to the Princeton Board of Education. As a father of five, he is deeply committed to making sure all students in Princeton have the resources they need to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom.

Z. Lisa Potter

Z. Lisa Potter is a seasoned corporate executive with a diverse background in human resources, technology, and finance. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive transformation, improve processes, and lead teams to success.

Lisa’s professional journey began in finance, but her curiosity and drive for continuous improvement soon led her to technology consulting and, ultimately, human resources. As a human resources executive, Lisa has specialized in talent acquisition and organizational transformation, with a particular focus on talent development and creating inclusive cultures. She has successfully worked across various industries, including financial services, pharmaceuticals, and technology, bringing innovative solutions and a commitment to excellence to every role.

Born and raised in Taiwan, Lisa moved to the United States at a young age and quickly learned that education is a powerful pathway to opportunity and success. She became the first female Asian American president of the student government at Baruch College, City University of New York, and continued her education by earning an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business and a master’s degree from Cornell University’s Industrial and Labor Relations School.

Christopher Santarpio

Chris was born and raised in southern New Jersey alongside his two older brothers. His dad, who left school after the 9th grade to work at his grandparents’ deli, met his mom, and together they started a family business. Chris is proud to have been the first person in his family to attend college, where he pursued and completed a degree in Finance.

Growing up, Chris witnessed firsthand the dedication and perseverance of his parents, both at home and in their business. This instilled in Chris a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of education. These values have carried forward into Chris’ own family life. In 2020, Chris and his husband, Eric and their son moved to Princeton to provide their son with access to high-quality education and a vibrant, diverse community. They stay actively involved through school activities, Little League and ice hockey.

Chris attended Villanova University, and upon graduation, moved to Boston to begin his career in the financial services industry at a large custodian bank. Starting in Operations within the bank’s Prime Brokerage Division, Chris worked hard to advance to the International Equities Sales Trading Desk. Chris’ career trajectory took him to a global management consulting firm, where he led strategy development and execution, and process improvement engagements for financial services clients. Chris is now the 2nd generation owner of the family business. Chris has played a significant role in the growth and development of the family’s business for the past 20 years. Chris obtained his MBA in 2012 from Rutgers while working full time. Chris is also Lean Six Sigma Certified.

Erica Snyder

Erica Snyder is a 20-year educator having been a public high school teacher, instructional coach for both teachers and administrators, and is currently the Director of Cherry Hill Nursery School here in Princeton as well as the Community Park PTO co-president. She has three kids in our public schools, two at CP and one at PMS. Her background includes a master’s degree in instructional technology, expertise in project-based learning, standards and competency-based grading, and school budgeting.

Her experience in education sets her apart from the other candidates and allows her to bring innovative ideas and perspectives to the board from the multitude of districts she worked with around the country.

Shenwei Zhao

As the founder of a technical consulting firm, Shenwei has worked as a systems engineer throughout his career, serving as the Chief Information Office (CIO) for many of his clients across the tri-state area. In these roles, Shenwei oversees technology operations in a range of industries, adapting to their constantly evolving needs and compliance requirements.

Shenwei moved to the U.S. in 2000 to pursue graduate studies in Communication and Mass Media and holds a master’s degree in Information and Communication Science. Since 2016, Shenwei has lived in Princeton with his family. His wife has been a professor at Rutgers University for over a decade, and they have a 12-year-old son attending Princeton Charter School (PCS).

In addition to his hands-on engineering work, Shenwei maintains a strong interest in the social impacts of technology, a passion he developed during his graduate studies at various universities.

Lisa Jacknow

Lisa Jacknow spent years working in national and local news in and around New York City before moving to Princeton. Working as both a TV producer and news reporter, Lisa came to this area to focus on the local news of Mercer County at WZBN-TV. In recent years, she got immersed in the Princeton community by serving leadership roles at local schools in addition to volunteering for other local non-profits. In her free time, Lisa loves to spend time with her family, play tennis, sing and play the piano. A graduate of the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, Lisa was raised just north of Boston, Massachusetts but has lived in the tri-state area since college. She is excited to be Editor and head writer for Princeton Perspectives!