Educational Background: Montclair State University, B.A. with honors (History/Education), Master's Degree (Educational Leadership)

Occupation: AP History Teacher, Glen Ridge High School - Incumbent Sparta Board of Education member

What I Bring to the Table: Curriculum and Policy Development

I have proudly lived in Sparta most of my life. I went through the Sparta school system, was a member and coach of the cheer program, and have worked at the town camp, Camp Sacajawea, since I was 17 years old. This tight knit community, with strong traditions of academic excellence, was the exact reason my husband and I decided to raise our own family here.

I graduated from Sparta in 2009 with a profound passion for learning that had been fostered by the amazing faculty at Sparta schools. Growing up, I had no doubt what I wanted to do with my career and went to school for teacher education. After graduating, with honors, from Montclair State University I began teaching history at what has been consistently rated the best public high school in New Jersey, Glen Ridge. In my district I have worked closely with administration and board of education members to develop a variety of policies including school safety and strategic planning. While working, I also continued my education and earned a Master's Degree in educational leadership and became a certified school principal. In my time in the educational field, I have quickly learned that a key to supporting students, educators, and to achieve academic excellence, is a strong Board of Education.

I feel strongly that I have a responsibility, as a citizen, to give back to my community and use my skills to benefit others. With my vast experience in education and my strong understanding of Spartan values, I knew the Board of Education would be the perfect way to serve Sparta. When a vacancy on the board became available, I was fortunate to be appointed by the current board members. In my time on the Sparta Board of Education, I have successfully collaborated with all members of the table to produce policies that support students and staff. I have voted to be fiscally conservative wherever possible, including to find ways to reduce the district’s legal spending. I have sought to work closely with administration to best address the needs of the school while also representing the needs of parents and Sparta taxpayers.

While I have only served for this past year, I look forward to continuing this important work as the only incumbent Sparta Board of Education member seeking reelection. My goal, as a board member, is to ensure students have the same amazing experiences I had in Sparta schools by promoting a safe environment, a varied curriculum, and fiscally responsible budget oversight that keeps our community's tax dollars in the classroom.

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are made in my capacity as a private citizen and not in my capacity as a board member. These statements are also not representative of the Board of Education or its individual members, and solely represent my own personal opinion.

Emily Ramos Serafino

-Incumbent seeking a three year term-