The following is an email received from Daniel Brown, Berkeley Heights Resident and Parent, to the County Superintendent Daryl Palmieri in Support of Ms. Khanna for BOE President.  Mr. Palmieri’s email address is [email protected]

Dear Mr. Palmieri,

I am writing to you as a concerned resident of Berkeley Heights and a dedicated advocate for the educational welfare of our community, as well as the father of four children currently enrolled in our schools. The Berkeley Heights Board of Education faces a critical decision regarding its leadership, and I believe that Dipti Khanna is the right choice for the position of Board President.

As you are aware, the vote for the Board President is currently at a deadlock, with a 4 to 4 tie between the incumbent president, Angela Penna, and Dipti Khanna. This situation calls for a decisive decision, and I urge you to consider the following points:

1. Representation of Current Community Sentiment:Dipti Khanna has garnered the support of the two most recently elected Board of Education members. This fact is not just a matter of numerical significance but also an indicator of the current sentiment within our community. Their election and support reflect a growing desire for change in our school system’s leadership.

2. Need for Academic Improvement: Under the current presidency, our schools have unfortunately experienced a downturn in academic performance. This decline is a significant concern for parents, students, and educators alike. It is imperative that we address this issue head-on with new leadership that can bring innovative solutions and a fresh perspective to the table.

3. Dipti Khanna’s Vision and Leadership Qualities:Dipti Khanna has demonstrated a clear and compelling vision for the future of Berkeley Heights schools. Her focus on academic excellence, coupled with her commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment, makes her an ideal candidate for the role of Board President. She brings a blend of fresh ideas and a deep understanding of the challenges our schools face.

4. Ensuring a Democratic Process: The role of the Union County Superintendent in this situation is not just to break a tie but to uphold the democratic process. The support for Dipti Khanna from the newly elected members signifies a shift in the community’s preference. Your decision can reinforce this democratic expression by the Berkeley Heights community.

5. Questionable Voting Structure: It is important to note that one of the votes supporting Angela Penna comes from a board member representing another district, which utilizes our high school but does not engage with the broader array of schools within our jurisdiction. Allowing this member to have a deciding influence in the election of the Board President for Berkeley Heights seems inappropriate. The Board President should be chosen by representatives who are fully invested in and accountable for all the schools in our district. This unusual circumstance further underscores the need for your intervention to ensure a fair leadership selection.

In conclusion, while acknowledging Angela Penna’s contributions to the Board, it is crucial to recognize when change is needed. Dipti Khanna represents that change. Her leadership could be the key to revitalizing our schools and restoring their academic fortunes.

I trust that you will consider this recommendation with the seriousness and urgency it deserves. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,
Daniel Brown

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