Ayelet’s focus areas
Improving on the achievement gap
Montclair schools have a persistent achievement gap within its student population. I am encouraged by the recent focus by the BOE on this important issue, but more needs to be done.
My Approach:
I will push for a deeper, data-driven examination of where, when and how achievement gaps emerge.
I would push for further investigation into whether students in the lower grades are receiving adequate time and resources in their core curriculum classes, whether key aspects of the problem are being masked through additional resources provided by parents, and implement data-driven solutions to improve student performance
Making our schools work for families
Strong evidence indicates that when families are supported, students are better positioned to succeed in school.
My Approach:
As a Board of Education member, I will ensure families and caregivers feel supported, recognizing the different ways families live and work.
I will fight for a calendar that’s family friendly, working to remove unnecessary barriers to engagement and creating more opportunities for families to participate in school life.
Focusing on early childhood education
The early years of a child’s education lay the foundation for future academic and emotional success, yet the needs of our youngest learners are rarely the focus in Board of Education conversations about budgets, resources, and priorities.
Having experienced the value of the Mini Mounties program firsthand, I know how meaningful strong early education can be for children and their families.
My Approach:
I will advocate for the needs of our youngest learners (pre-k through 3rd grade) in BOE discussions.
I will support the Mini Mounties community, teachers and staff, to further the success of the program.