On November 2, Teaneck will be electing three new members to the Board of Education (BOE). The BOE works together with the community and the district schools to ensure a successful educational experience for the children of Teaneck. The Jewish Link sat down with candidate Rachel Secemski, to discuss her views on special education, role models and how she hopes to be a voice for our kids.
Tell us about yourself.
Professionally I’m a physical therapist working in rehabilitation with children with special needs. My husband and I have lived in Teaneck since 2004 and we have four kids. I have one son with special needs who has been a student in the Teaneck public schools since early childhood and I have played an active role in his education. Helping people has always been essential to who I am, and if elected, I’m excited for the opportunity to serve the children of Teaneck and their families.
Why are you running for the BOE and if elected, what will be your priorities?
My son is the inspiration for my campaign. In pre-school he was in a self-contained program at a district school where he really thrived, but once he got to the elementary level, we weren’t nearly as satisfied. I became even more involved in the system and then Covid happened, bringing everything to a standstill. For six months he had no instruction which I found completely unacceptable. I voiced my concerns to the board and the superintendent, and I even staged a rally along with other families of students with special needs where I spoke about my son and the challenging circumstances we were facing without in-person learning. We anticipated a return to school in September which didn’t happen. I pushed back, explaining that special needs students can’t learn on zoom, and they assured us they would open in November. With only days to go, the board voted to delay the opening once again. My son stayed home for another two months until they finally opened with a modified program.
The district failed us. As a front-line worker, I understood the fear of Covid and the challenges it presented. Nonetheless, I knew I had to get out there and do my job, as safely as possible. With such small class sizes, I firmly believe there were manageable ways to safely bring these kids back to school. Keeping them home for an extended period was misguided and damaging and caused regression both academically and socially.
As an Orthodox candidate, I plan to be a voice for the Jewish community who by and large don’t send their children to the district schools yet pay for the services. I have children who use both the public schools and private schools, and I would like to work on bridging the gap between the two.
What are some of the challenges facing the Teaneck school system and do you have specific suggestions for improvement?
Remediation for lost learning is a big part of my campaign. We need to have a plan in place to assess all students and determine where we need to adjust the curriculum and have extra supports available. I also think we need more parent involvement. As someone who has worked in the public schools for many years, I know firsthand that it’s a team effort. Teachers can only do so much in the classrooms and parents must be involved with homework and maintain open communication with teachers if they feel that students are struggling. We also need to prioritize affordable aftercare and specialty after school clubs which are crucial for working parents.
I am also concerned about the significant rise in mental health issues since the pandemic, especially among our youth. I think it’s important that we address this challenge and provide mental health resources for our students and families both in and out of school.
What personal experiences have prepared you for this role and why is it so close to your heart?
My son is my motivation to be involved. Advocating for his needs is my priority and I will do whatever I can to make sure he and all children with special needs receive the services they deserve. The therapies in Teaneck are excellent but the special ed curriculum has room for improvement.
What is your greatest strength and your greatest weakness?
My greatest strength lies in my dedication to all children and especially those who are more vulnerable. I have worked in New Jersey public schools for many years, first in Newark and then in Bergen County, and I bring a certain understanding and experience to the table that others might not. I also think that as a parent of a child with special needs, I have the personal insight necessary to help many local families who struggle with similar concerns. As for my greatest weakness, I would say that I care too much. I get emotionally invested in things that matter to me, and I need to better balance that.
Describe yourself in a few words.
I am a very driven person and when I set my mind to something I go for it all the way. I am hard working and passionate about things that matter most.
Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of?
First and foremost, as a mother I am incredibly proud of my children. For me personally, one of my greatest accomplishments is my contribution to healthcare in general and specifically during the pandemic. When Covid hit I went to work on the front line and in field hospitals throughout New Jersey. It was difficult and scary, but I felt a calling to go. I was raised with a fundamental belief in helping others and I have dedicated much of my professional life and my personal life toward that goal.
Outside of local politics, how do you spend your free time?
Spending time with my husband and kids, watching them play sports and having fun, is what I enjoy most.
If you could have dinner with one person who would that be?
My grandmother without a question. She was a Holocaust survivor who instilled in me the importance of helping others. She passed away 20 years ago, and I think of her every day. Much of what I have done in my life has been with her in mind and my accomplishments are a tribute to her.
If we see you on the street, what should we do?
I really enjoy talking to people. I’m a friendly, social person and I’m open to hear what your thoughts are, regardless of whether we agree. Feel free to reach me at 201-600-7131 or by email at [email protected].
Early voting is available at several locations across Bergen County including the Rhoda Center between 10/23-10/31, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m-8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.To locate a polling place please visit https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/polling-place-search.
By Andrea Nissel
