Brick Township School Board Election 2020: Missy Parker

BRICK, NJ — When voters go to the polls Nov. 3, they will be asked to choose two people to serve on the Brick Township Board of Education.

There are five people seeking those two seats, which are volunteer, unpaid three-year terms on the board.

Patch asked each candidate to answer questions to give voters information about who they are and their stances on various issues. We are printing their responses in full, unedited except for spelling or punctuation.

Here are the answers from Missy Parker, who is running with Micah Bender under the slogan Transparency and Community.

Previous elective office, if any:

None

Does anyone in your family work for the school district or in politics?

Attended Brookdale and Monmouth University

Occupation

Stay-at-home mom

Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?

I have four kids in Brick schools. My youngest started kindergarten in September. I want to be part of the decision-making process for their education as well as all of the Brick students to make sure they are given every opportunity to succeed.

The single most pressing issue facing our school district is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I think that our district’s most important issue is the devastating funding cuts and what the effects are on not only our students but our community as well. I will continue to fight for the release and reconfiguration of the S2 formula. I’ve given written testimony to the House and Senate committees regarding the effects these cuts have on Brick schools, attended rallies and will continue to be advocate for the restoration of funding.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking to serve on the school board seat?

I believe my direct involvement in PTA — on the school, state and national level — gives me an important and unique insight into what challenges parents and teachers are facing on a day-to-day basis. My four children range in age from 5 to 16, so I have the perspective of new students as well as students preparing for college, and what funding cuts will mean to their academic careers. As a stay-at-home mom, I have the time to dedicate to the issues we face as a district.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

COVID-19 has changed the landscape of what school will look like for our students. Children need stability to achieve. I’m hoping to help bring that stability to the board by being a consistent voice and represent the students and the taxpayers to make responsible decisions.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you will be effective on the school board?

I am the vice president of our school PTA, and a member of both the New Jersey PTA and National PTA. I’ve spearheaded school fundraisers, raised funds and collected donations for local hospitals and essential workers during the pandemic, and participate in various community events. My kids are my motivation. We love our community and our schools.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I will listen. I will listen to your concerns. I have no special interests other than what is best for our kids. I am dedicated, fierce and compassionate. Anyone that knows me knows that I will fight for my kids AND your kids. I am involved and will continue to promote the interests of the parents and students Of Brick.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

My mother once told me, “No one will ever advocate for your kids like you will.” No words have stuck with me more through my career as a parent. It’s important to me to be a voice for the children of Brick and advocate for their best interests.