Voter apathy and a lack of candidates weaken many elected offices everywhere.

But, in Voorhees, voters are fortunate to have four candidates running in next Tuesday's election for three seats on the school board. Another candidate is running for an unexpired term on the board.

In partnership with the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University and NJ Spotlight News, 70and73.com surveyed Voorhees' five candidates about the issues and their backgrounds.

Four candidates responded to our request for information, which included a follow-up request when the first request went unanswered. We edited for grammar or errors in their submissions, but what you read below is what they submitted in their own words.

Your job? Make your choices and show up at your polling place next Tuesday.

REVIEW VOORHEES' FULL SAMPLE BALLOT HERE.

One unexpired seat on the board, uncontested

Jason A. Brice Sr.

Round Hill Road

Age: 48

Occupation: Guidance counselor and licensed professional counselor

Personal background

I am a native of New York, born and raised in Lakeview and Hempstead, Long Island. I have more than 20 years of experience in the counseling and social work services field. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in behavioral science and a Master of Education in school counseling from Wilmington University. I have a wealth of experience and knowledge working with children of all ages in the public school system, as well as the private and nonprofit sectors. As a trained and licensed professional counselor, my passions include supporting children who have emotional and behavioral challenges as well as children with autism and other developmental disabilities. I am a guidance counselor in the Penns Grove Carneys Point School District. I also am the executive director of the 4WALLS LLC and The 4WALLS Foundation, entities that specialize in providing counseling services to children and families in Burlington, Camden, Essex, and Mercer counties within the New Jersey Children's System of Care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my children, writing books, poetry, and music, and developing and creating new and innovative ways to help those underserved and afflicted. I am often inspired to write as a way of providing encouragement to those who are dealing with the trials and tribulations that come with walking the path of life.

Public service background

I have had the honor of serving as a Voorhees Township school board member since 2020.

Reason for running

I am running for a seat on the Voorhees Township school board because I truly want to serve our community. My life's work has been rooted in education and counseling and I want to represent and advocate for all children, especially those who had similar experiences as I have. I was a career "D" to "F" student who wasn't confident due to circumstances beyond my control. I didn't think I was intelligent, yet alone college material, and I didn't think that I would have a future. Through my servitude and advocacy, it is my desire and purpose to encourage and empower all children that they can be whatever they dream to be as long as they make the choice to go through the process of becoming what they want.  

Candidate's biggest issue

From my perspective, and if elected, the one area I would like to concentrate on is improving our community relations and communication within appropriate boundaries. I would also like to advocate for additional mental health services for our children. 

Campaign slogan and meaning

IDEAs for Tomorrow

Approach to budget cuts and spending

I am proud to say that I am partnered with wonderful, talented, and innovative individuals who are extremely creative in ensuring that we are always making fiscally responsible decisions. That is always the priority.

Additional information about candidate

I just want everyone to know that my life's work is rooted in purpose driven service and if elected, it will truly be my pleasure to serve the children and families of the Voorhees community.

Vote for three candidates

Julie Ketover

Fairway Drive

Age: 50

Bracketing with other candidates? Yes, with Monica Watson, Crystal Munion, and Jason Brice, because we are aligned on values and commitments

Occupation: Executive and leadership coach

Personal background

I have lived in Voorhees for 20 years and have two daughters, one who is a college sophomore and the other a freshman at Eastern Regional High School. Both went through Voorhees schools. I am a product of a K-12 public education, graduated summa cum laude and phi beta kappa from Yale with a BA in psychology and received my law degree at NYU School of Law. Following 17 years in the legal industry as attorney and as a business leader, I pivoted in 2017 to the world of coaching. I have my own coaching practice and consult on several coaching platforms. I work with individuals, teams, groups, and organizations around leadership development and cultural reinvention. I typically work with high performing, goal-oriented professionals in demanding environments. My clients learn to challenge and trust themselves, to up-level their leadership, to more effectively manage their teams and to achieve their goals with purpose and commitment.

Public service background

I recently completed a four-year term as a board member for the International Coaching Federation of Philadelphia and a six-year term as a board member and vice president of the board of the Jewish Community Relations Council of South Jersey. I currently serve as a volunteer for Project Sarah domestic violence program, a part of Jewish Family and Children's Service of South Jersey. I have served on the Board of Education since August 2022. I was first appointed to fill a vacancy and then elected in November of 2022 for the unexpired term.

Reason for running

I am a firm believer in the core tenets of public education. I believe a strong, inclusive public education system is one of the key pillars of a functioning democracy. As a board member, I have focused my efforts on policy committee work, improving overall academic excellence, including supporting students to more effectively transition from middle school to high school, advocating for social and emotional learning, and creating a supportive environment for teachers and administrative staff. I plan to continue this work if re-elected.

Candidate's biggest issue

Addressing ongoing academic gaps resulting from pandemic-related learning loss; addressing behavioral and mental health issues and overall social and emotional wellness, also related to the pandemic; ensuring the district is leveraging AI and technology responsibly and to support students' education.

Campaign slogan and meaning

IDEAs for tomorrow. Our "IDEAs for Tomorrow" slogan embodies our platform and what we stand for: Innovation, Diligence, Excellence, Accountability.

Approach to budget cuts and spending

Voorhees has one of the best business administrators in the state, and the board relies heavily on her experience, expertise, and creativity. I am confident that our district would meet any aid cut with an array of possible solutions that neither disrupt nor cause harm to our schools My spending priorities include ensuring we are able to hire and retain talent, investing in enrichment programming, and offering ongoing and holistic support to address the mental health crisis and attend to social and emotional learning to mitigate disruptive behavior and conflict in schools.

Additional information about candidate

In addition to my knowledge and understanding of the complexities of the public school system, I bring key contributions that position me to be a good fit for the Board of Education: Persuasive advocacy; clear communication (oral and written); effective collaboration and partnership; courageous leadership and influence; and authentic relationship and trust-building. My experience in these areas would support the Board to strengthen its reputation and to continue to do excellent work in a challenging environment and have made a difference in overall Board functioning so far in my tenure. My running mates are equally committed to board service and bring an array of unique experience and gifts to the table. As our slogan indicates, we are future-focused and aligned around many values, including innovation, diligence, excellence, and accountability.

Crystal Munion

Holly Oak Drive

Candidate did not respond

Garima Thapar

Danforth Drive

Strong on Education

Age: 44

Occupation: Physician, Endocrinologist

Personal background

I am a practicing physician, and I am married to a fellow professional in the same field. I have two children that are currently enrolled in the Voorhees school district. I'm a dedicated physician with 16 years of experience, I have devoted my career to improving health and well-being of individuals.

Public service background

I serve as a president at Voorhees middle school Parent Faculty Association. I'm also part of Voorhees culture diversity committee, appointed by the mayor. I have given numerous presentations on the importance of diversity at local schools. I'm also part of our district's DEI committee.

Reason for running

I am running for a seat on the Board of Education because I have a vision for our schools besides education and my vision is built on three core principles: Equity, innovation, and community engagement. Equity is at the heart of what I aim to achieve. Every student deserves access to high-quality education and support. I’m dedicated to addressing the disparities in our system and that all students have the resources they need to succeed. Innovation is vital for preparing for students for the future. I want to support initiatives that embrace new teaching methods, integrate technology, effectively, and encourage creative problem-solving. By fostering a culture of innovation, we can ensure that our students are learning and thriving in an ever evolving world. Community engagement is essential for creating a solid and supportive educational environment. Schools are not isolated institutions. They are a vital part of our community. I'm dedicated to fostering stronger partnerships between schools, parents, and local organizations. Together, we can build a collaborative network to support our students, growth and well-being. Open communication and involvement from all stakeholders are creating a positive and practical educational experience. I bring to this role of blend of experience and dedication.

Candidate's biggest issue

I think one of the most significant issue is the increasing politicization of education. I want to make sure that the curriculum remains comprehensive and free from any political agendas. School systems should just focus on all students receiving high-quality education and have access to necessary resources. We also need to ensure we're providing enough transparency and understanding of board decisions and actions to our stakeholders.

Campaign slogan and meaning 

Strong on Education

Approach to budget cuts and spending

Coping with cuts: 1. Efficiency: thoroughly review current expenditures to identify areas where cost can be reduced without compromising the quality of education. This may include looking at contracts, reducing energy cost, or consolidating services. 2. Advocate for support: encourage community involvement, joining advocacy efforts at the state level to push for fair funding formulas. 3. Alternative ways of funding: look for grants, can seek partnerships with community organizations to find specific programs or initiatives. Spending priorities: 1. Academic programs: focus will always remain to maintain high-quality education for all students. 2. Teachers professional development: investment in teacher training and professional development. 3. Special education and support services: these programs are essential for an inclusive learning environment. 4. Technology innovation: students should have access to most recent technology and learning tools. 5. Community engagement: Prioritizing transparency and communication with parents, teachers, and community This will built up trust and shared responsibility in navigating financial challenges.

Additional information about candidate

Our children are our future. It is very important that they get the best education, free from any political agendas. I am deeply passionate about the future of our schools, students and community.

Monica Watson

Simsbury Drive

Age: 45

Bracketing with other candidates? Yes, under "Ideas for Tomorrow" because we all have similar values and approach to educational excellence.

Occupation: Attorney

Personal background

I have more than 20 years of legal experience and currently am vice president, legal head, enterprise excellence and governance for Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. While my career continues to be a cornerstone of my life, volunteerism for causes close to my heart has been equally as important. I have served on the Voorhees Board of Education since 2018 and as Board President since 2022. Most notably during her tenure, the District has navigated through the pandemic, two Superintendent searches, instituted full day Kindergarten and the purchase and plan for a cross-District collaboration for a state-of-the-art Preschool. As a twice elected Board member, Monica has remained steadfast in her commitment to innovation, diligence, educational excellence, and accountability. Her past votes, District changes and Board commentary strongly reflect that commitment. If re-elected for a third term, she will remain committed to these critical philosophies ensuring that all children receive the highest level of education in a manner best suited for each student. In order for that to effectively happen, she will continue to serve the community and support our extraordinary educators.

Monica resides in Voorhees with her husband and two wonderful children, Ari (11) and London (10).

Public service background:

See above.

Reason for running:

See above.

Candidate's biggest issue:

School Curriculum and ensuring we continue to close gaps from pandemic years; social and emotional health and well being; and AI and responsible use/overuse of digital technology.

Campaign slogan and meaning:

Ideas for Tomorrow embodies our platform and what we stand for Innovation, Diligence, Excellence and Accountability.

Approach to budget cuts and spending:

Thankfully Voorhees has an exceptional Business Administrator that finds creative ways to secure funding and budget effectively. Cuts in state aid is always a concern and should always guide Board members in being fiscally responsible in the discharge of their duties. For Voorhees, we need to monitor our spending on the Preschool Project while also ensuring we get the most out of our budget for educational excellence - competitive salaries, safe and up to date facilities and exceptional curriculum, programming and activities in all of our schools.

Additional information about candidate:

Our decisions as a school Board directly impact my own children. My service is deeply personal not just for them but for our community. Education is the cornerstone for success at every level and I remain dedicated to that purpose always.