Questions for Board of Education Candidates
Below are 5 questions compiled by a group of residents who are active in environmental health and climate issues. We thank all candidates for running for Board of Education and encourage all to vote.
QUESTION 1: The MPSD does not have policies regarding sustainability and environmental conservation. The NJSBA provides templates for sustainability policies. Will you pledge to introduce and vote “yes" on an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (Green Purchasing Policy)and a Conservation Sustainability and Green Initiatives Policy? Examples can be seen here.
ANSWERS:
JADA ROMAN: As a parent, I am committed to leaving this world in a better state than it was left to me. While I may not have comprehensive knowledge of the policies mentioned, I am open and eager to learn more. My goal is to ensure that those responsible are well-informed. I look forward to the opportunity to improve my understanding and effectively advocate for the best policies for our district
HOLLY SHAW: The EPP (Environmentally Preferable Purchasing) or Green Purchasing policy focuses on buying products and services that reduce harm to human health and the environment. As a parent, I believe it's crucial to consider the future—the world our children will inherit—and provide them with the tools to create a better one. The EPP promotes sustainability by teaching the importance of minimizing waste, reducing pollution, and improving energy efficiency. I would absolutely support these initiatives.
The Conservation, Sustainability, and Green Initiatives policy offers a broader framework aimed at fostering environmental sustainability. While I’m less familiar with its specific impact on schools, in the wine industry, where I work, many producers prioritize reducing their carbon footprint in all stages, from growing grapes to bottling. In that sense, any initiative that educates students about environmental impact and sustainable practices is vital. I’m not certain what the first steps would be, but I think focusing on educating kids about environmental responsibility and implementing policies that actively demonstrate sustainable practices is key.
ERIK SCHERZER: I would vote yes on a sustainability or green initiatives policy. I hope that the BOE’s Policy Committee will develop a policy on this issue for the full board to consider.
SEAN LONG: Sustainability and environmental responsibility are critical for the health and well-being of our students, teachers and community. Clean air, safe materials, and energy-efficient practices directly impact student learning by promoting healthier, more comfortable school environments. Sustainable practices, such as energy conservation and responsible purchasing, help reduce the district’s environmental footprint. Adopting sustainable initiatives often brings significant financial savings to the district. Investments in energy-efficient buildings and equipment, for example, can lower utility costs. By focusing on sustainability, we not only protect our planet but also ensure that Montclair’s schools remain financially resilient. Now, onto the specific questions: As a current Board member on the policy committee, I am actively engaged in conversations to advance environmental policies with our Board and administration. I am deeply interested in adopting an environmental policy to help guide our district's decision making. This focus aligns with the goals of the recently approved strategic plan. “Create sustainable and eco-friendly facilities, culture, and practices inside and outside our buildings.”
JUNE RAEGNER & ANDREW GIDEON: We would consider such a policy as that described as 3320.1. We have questions regarding how the process described integrates with current district purchasing processes. We also note, in part of the text: The business administrator in consultation with the superintendent shall recommend and the board shall approve only those options that are within the means of the district budget and do not incur undue expenses or otherwise impose on district staff or other resources. A lack of mention of possible imposition or effect upon or cost to students. We would recommend that something along those lines be added to any policy of this sort. Student education and well-being remains our paramount priority. It should also be noted that we do have at least one conservation policy: 7460. This is almost eight years old, though, and can certainly be revisited and potentially expanded.
2) Artificial turf has a negative environmental impact and many communities nationwide are pushing back on this petrochemical product. There is evidence of PFAS in artificial turf, the reality that it exacerbates the heat island effect is undisputed, it poses a risk to athletes when too hot, and it has been found to be a major source of microplastics pollution. In addition there are studies that point to artificial turf not being safer than well maintained grass with regard to athletic injuries. The Mount Sinai Children's Environmental Health Center wrote a letter in 2023 urging the MPSD to not install any further artificial turf. If you had to vote on an artificial turf bid today, with all the emerging science on this product, what would your criteria be for your vote?
ANSWERS:
JADA ROMAN: As a parent whose child has used and will continue to use artificial turf, I am aware of the impact of heat. I have also learned about the pollution during recent board meetings. Alongside Holly and Eric, we strongly believe that decisions and voting should be based on scientific evidence, with input from subject matter experts. The information, along with relevant testing and medical evidence of injuries, should also be shared with the broader community. If given the opportunity to thoroughly review this, my decision would be based solely on scientific findings.
HOLLY SHAW: I believe every decision should involve thoroughly investigating the impact of products on health, safety, and the environment, while also aligning with scientific evidence. As the parent of a child who plays on artificial turf, I would seek insights from experts, as I don’t have the expertise myself. There are many articles indicating that artificial turf contains PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), so any vote on its use should be based on comprehensive testing and certifications proving that the product is free from these and other hazardous substances.
Any field that is designed or renovated should prioritize the health of students and the community. If there’s even a small chance that PFAS or other chemicals pose a risk, alternative options should be considered. Is grass a better option? Why? The findings of those studies should be shared with parents and the community. The potential heat island effect of artificial turf, compared to other options, and the risk of microplastic dispersion also need to be carefully studied.
My criteria for any decision would be based on scientific evidence, but also take into account overall safety and health—this includes comparing the safety of artificial turf to well-maintained grass, particularly in terms of injuries and player safety. Temperature management and sustainability, such as the disposal of turf and its carbon footprint, would also play a significant role.
Ultimately, my decision would rely on expert opinions, such as those from the Mount Sinai Children's Environmental Health Center, which has raised concerns about artificial turf. Making decisions without consulting experts or considering common sense would be problematic, and I would never support or remain silent on a decision made without due diligence.
ERIK SCHERZER: Our students and athletes need safe fields to play on, and we need to consider the environmental impact of all facilities improvements and renovations that we undertake.
We need to ensure that our fields – whether they are turf or grass – are effectively and properly maintained, that we have adequate resources in our budget to do so, and that our staff is appropriately trained to maintain all our fields.
As you state, the information about the risks of artificial turf is still emerging.
Three years ago, the MPS architects proposed a turf baseball field at the High School and a grass field at Hillside. Our priority was to fix the MHS baseball field and the Hillside playing fields in a timely manner. We received no information about the hazards of turf fields before these decisions were made.
Given the extensive renovations that have already occurred and that are now underway, it is unlikely that any new investments in fields will be made during the next three-year term on the BOE. However, we now have the opportunity to develop a process for making decisions that takes into account the latest science, balances environmental concerns with economic realities, and enables the Board of Education to benefit from the knowledge and experience of consultants to MPS, school administrators and town residents with special expertise on these matters.
I have spoken at BOE meetings about the importance of properly maintaining all fields to protect our student athletes as we continue to monitor the research on the chemicals in turf. I expect that we will have to increase our maintenance budget to ensure appropriate maintenance. I will advocate for that funding since proper maintenance will extend the useful life of all fields and will protect the health of our student-athletes.
At the same time, the District should be closely following new research on the chemicals in artificial turf. I trust that as the hazards of artificial turf are better understood and the cost of disposal of old artificial turf increases, future boards will make more fully informed decisions on this matter.
SEAN LONG: The health and safety of our children is so important. A study published in Pediatrics found that children who participate in organized sports tend to exhibit better mental health outcomes, such as reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, outdoor play and organized sports foster teamwork, leadership skills, and social interaction, which contribute to improved emotional well-being and social development. Investing in our student mental health is one of the many ways we keep students safe. My decision criteria would focus on four key areas: student and athlete safety, environmental impact, field usability/ durability and long-term financial implications for the district.
JUNE RAEGNER & ANDREW GIDEON: We are unfamiliar with the criteria used by the district such that it chose grass for Hillside and turf for Woodman. We would want to learn those criteria, and why they in particular were used, before opining further.
3) New Jersey's average temperature has warmed faster than that of any other state in the last 100 years, weather experts say. What do you think the MPSD needs to do to be climate resilient and proactive with regards to the impact of extreme heat on student health and wellbeing? What should the MPSD do to reduce its emissions?
ANSWERS:
JADA ROMAN: As a parent of a CHB student and having been actively involved in procuring shades for the playground, I understand the significance of addressing this issue for the well-being of our students. We must implement necessary and environmentally sustainable updates to our facilities to ensure the safety of our students during educational and social activities. Investments in shade trees, solar panels, HVAC systems, electric buses, and enhanced safety bus lanes are crucial.
HOLLY SHAW: On a practical level, when my daughter attended Glenfield Middle School, she would often walk out of school and nearly faint from the heat. Her room was on the top floor under a flat roof, which made it even hotter. This highlights the importance of using bond funds for school renovations that invest in energy-efficient, climate-controlled buildings. Upgrading HVAC systems, using heat-resistant roofing materials, and installing better insulation are key steps toward that goal.
To help students, we can create shaded outdoor spaces, install air quality monitors, and have basic ventilation. There are many creative and practical solutions out there.
In terms of emissions, audits and expert guidance can help identify ways to reduce the district’s carbon footprint, such as adopting renewable energy sources like solar panels. We could also explore creative solutions, like electric school buses, and promote carpooling and biking (Go BIKE BUS!).
Reducing the carbon footprint could also start with simple initiatives like adopting recycling, composting, and waste-reduction programs. Ultimately, communication, education, and community involvement are the best ways to foster an environment where people come together to make decisions that build a better future for our kids.
ERIK SCHERZER: The current bond referendum monies will enable all schools to be air conditioned and to have up-to-date ventilation systems by 2027.
I advocated for an expert advisory panel on bond questions so that we could take advantage of the knowledge and expertise in the Montclair Community on these questions. We need to ensure that the Panel meets regularly with the Facilities Committee. Holly Shaw, Jada Roman and I are committed to finding ways to engage the expertise in our community on environmental and other issues.
One current example of how the BOE is addressing climate change is through the recent completion of the solar panel project. I am committed to increasing use of renewable resources and reducing carbon emissions throughout the District.
One way to do that, is to more aggressively pursue federal, state and private grants for pilot projects in these areas so we can be on the forefront of newly developing technology to reduce energy usage while maintaining proper ventilation and healthy air quality. One area that should be explored is the use of electric vehicles for use by all school employees.
SEAN LONG: We must prepare for more extreme weather conditions. While the MPSD is making progress in areas such as solar power as recently shared at the September board meeting. We must first adopt an environmental policy that will help guide our decision making and preparedness for the future.
JUNE RAEGNER & ANDREW GIDEON: We see effort required on at least two fronts which will, unfortunately, occasionally be opposed. At the recent board presentation on the ESIP program, for example, it was noted that at least some of the projected energy savings would likely be consumed by new projects introducing proper HVAC into all our schools. That HVAC is a necessity, though, for student and staff health and well-being.
Note that this is only likely because some of the upgrades being funded by the bond referendum include their own efficiency improvements.
Progress has been made in both directions, improving energy efficiency and improving the environment within the schools. These systems will require regular maintenance and upgrade, and the district should actively seek further opportunities - both in terms of needs and funding sources - of improvement.
Once the current round of funded improvements is completed, We expect that it would make sense to investigate the feasibility - and possible funding sources for - a new Energy Audit.
4) 67% of NJ schools are participating in Sustainable Jersey School programs and 375 schools are certified. Are any of the MPSD schools certified or working towards their Sustainable Jersey Schools certification? If not, why not and what role can the Board take with regards to supporting that?
ANSWERS:
JADA ROMAN: Based on the information available on the website, there is confirmation of several MPS schools as certified in the program. It appears that participation in the program is voluntary and necessitates our staff to initiate the process at the building level. As a board member, I am keen to see how we can best support all our buildings and utilize the sustainability grant program to bring about changes in our sustainability. As well as how we can instill a daily commitment among our staff to undertake this responsibility.
HOLLY SHAW: The official Sustainable Jersey for Schools website shows that several schools in Montclair are registered, but none are currently certified. These schools include Watchung, Edgemont, Montclair High School, Bullock, Buzz Aldrin, and Bradford. As for whether any schools are actively working toward certification, I’m not aware of any specific efforts, though I haven’t directly asked the schools.
In terms of the Board's role, they could play a significant part by raising awareness of the benefits of participating in Sustainable Jersey for Schools, which offers grants and educational resources. Our district tends to overlook many grant opportunities, and tapping into these could be a game changer for sustainability efforts. Additionally, the Board could establish district-wide sustainability policies and initiatives that align with the certification standards, ensuring a more cohesive approach to environmental responsibility across all schools.
ERIK SCHERZER: I note that the list below shows which of our schools were registered with Sustainable NJ (mostly in 2015-2016 when the district itself registered with Sustainable NJ.) I note further that none of those schools seems to have advanced towards certification. It has been suggested that one reason for schools not advancing towards certification is the daunting paperwork requirements of that process. If that is the case, perhaps a community volunteer from Sustainable NJ could work with each school to ensure that we are moving along towards certification. I will ask the Facilities Committee to monitor that progress.
I will also find out why our other schools have not registered and will advocate for them to do so.
List of Sustainable NJ Schools From Sustainable NJ website:
Montclair Public Schools (Essex)
Bradford Elementary School (Essex)
Charles H. Bullock Elementary School (Essex)
Edgemont Elementary School (Essex)
Glenfield Middle School (Essex)
Montclair High School (Essex)
Mount Hebron Middle School (Essex)
Renaissance Middle School (Essex)
Watchung Elementary School (Essex)
SEAN LONG: I would need to validate current certification status with the administration. I would support exploring certifications that align with our strategic plan and impact goals.
JUNE RAEGNER & ANDREW GIDEON: As far back as 2015, at least two schools - Edgemont and Mt. Hebron (now Buzz Aldrin) - were recipients of grants from Sustainable Jersey for Schools. More recently, both Bullock and Watchung have been awarded grants.
5) Would you be in favor of a District-wide waste/recycling audit? Do you think the MPSD should play a role in reducing food waste and plastic pollution? And if so, how so?
ANSWERS:
JADA ROMAN: This represents an initiative that I endorse, even before assuming a position on the board. As a board member, I would be committed to bringing together district management and town authorities to oversee a comprehensive town-wide venture. Such collaboration will yield benefits for all residents of Montclair. We must capitalize on the opportunity to position our educational institutions as pioneers in waste reduction. This necessitates a thorough evaluation of all facets of district services, encompassing recycling practices and the procurement and utilization of materials for food preparation and packaging.
HOLLY SHAW: Yes, a district-wide waste and recycling audit could be highly beneficial for MPSD. Such an audit would help the district understand its current waste management practices and identify opportunities for improvement, particularly in reducing food waste and plastic pollution. While securing funding for an audit might be challenging due to limited resources, the potential savings from reduced operational costs—especially from cafeteria food waste and plastic packaging—could make it a worthwhile investment.
Ultimately, all these questions point toward a broader goal: MPSD should strive to be a leader in environmental responsibility, benefiting both students and the community. Practical steps to achieve this include educating students and staff about waste reduction, recycling, and composting. Hosting "zero waste" days and creating engaging initiatives, like a school competition for the "Zero Waste Hero," can help raise awareness and encourage participation. We can be CREATIVE!
Though this is a gradual process, with persistent efforts in education and small-scale initiatives, MPSD could become a model for other districts to follow.
ERIK SCHERZER: I need more information about the cost and benefits of a waste/recycling audit. I’m certainly in favor of school composting to reduce food waste. Recently, I have connected a number of teachers, town officials and community experts to encourage them to apply for a grant that would pay for industrial food composters at two elementary schools as part of a pilot project that if successful might be extended to all District schools. This application was filed and I’m hopeful that the District will win this grant and will become a leader on this issue.
SEAN LONG: It’s important for us to understand where our waste comes from and where we have the greatest opportunities for improvement. With food waste and plastic pollution being key contributors to environmental harm, the MPSD should absolutely play a role in reduction efforts. I’m sure a review of our current practices will help identify opportunities to improve.
JUNE RAEGNER & ANDREW GIDEON: This is another topic that has been brought up repeatedly over the years. The schools have made small efforts on their own, such as composting projects to keep vegetative waste out of the trash stream. Bullock has two recycling stations in its cafeteria for cartons and plastic containers and has taken other steps to reduce outgoing trash.
If a waste/recycling audit can identify further opportunities, that may be a worthy investment. Depending upon the cost of such an endeavour - as well as possible dedicated grant opportunities - We would want to see what “low hanging fruit” could be achieved in advance of such an audit.