As a Teaneck Councilman, it is my pleasure to work collaboratively with partners who have a strong connection to Teaneck and a steadfast regard for public service. That’s why I am endorsing my friend and fellow Teaneck resident Martin “Marty” Ramirez, a lawyer and former public school teacher, who is seeking a seat on the Teaneck Board of Education.

Marty’s life experience working in public schools, in government service and in legal contract work adds up to the kind of experience that can help Teaneck with the optimization of our school system and help balance our budgets. Marty strongly believes that great community schools are an important community investment, though he, like many, sends his children to local yeshiva day schools. His experience working in public schools in addition to being a parent at Ben Porat Yosef and The Frisch School informs his ability to pull the best approaches from both types of environments to make good decisions as a school board member.

Marty is the son of immigrants and part of the first generation of his family to go to college, so he knows what a strong education can do to improve outcomes. He also knows that a good school system increases the value of town property. Marty and his wife, Lori, and their five daughters are active, valued members of the Arzei Darom and Netivot Shalom communities.

Marty, like me, has concern for all stakeholders in Teaneck and I believe will be a valued and effective member of the school board. While I know there are many people up for election next week, it’s our local races that really affect our lives and pocketbooks here in Teaneck. That is why I urge you to cast your vote for Marty Ramirez for Teaneck Board of Education next Tuesday.

By Mark Schwartz, Co-Publisher, Jewish Link of New Jersey