Mathur & Nargund for Montgomery Township School Board of Education

Accountability and Financial Responsibility:
Almost 69% of your property taxes go towards our township Schools (Budget 2024). Effective stewardship of our district’s financial resources is critical. We are dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability in budgeting and spending decisions. By advocating for responsible budgeting practices, we will ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely to provide the highest quality education. In addition, we will work closely with the district's leadership to establish a Labor-Management Collaborative Partnership with our teachers and staff, ensuring that financial decisions also promote fairness and balance for both staff and students. We recognize that long-term success depends on transparent partnerships between the administration and its employees.

Innovative Funding Solutions:
In an era of inflation, increasing taxes year on year, and tight budgets, we need to be innovative in finding new ways to fund our schools. While maintaining fiscal responsibility, we will work to develop creative funding solutions that help generate revenue without increasing the burden on local families through higher property taxes. This may include seeking partnerships with local businesses, applying for grants, exploring alternative sources of revenue, look for opportunities to reduce operational costs ensuring that programs and facilities receive the funding they need, or partner with neigbouring school districts to share resources to enhance student success.

Equality and Respect for All Families:
We are deeply committed to promoting equality, respect, and understanding for all families within our school community. By fostering a truly inclusive environment, we can ensure that every student feels valued and supported, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status. This includes advocating for programs that celebrate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), ensuring that our curriculum and policies reflect the rich diversity of our community and provide equitable opportunities for all students to thrive.

Parental Rights and Community Engagement:
Parents are essential partners in their children’s education. We believe in honoring parental rights and encouraging community involvement at every level of decision-making. By actively listening to the concerns, ideas, and insights of parents, teachers, students, and staff, we will work collaboratively to create a school system that reflects the needs and aspirations of our entire community. Our goal is to foster open communication, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in shaping our schools' policies and programs.

Latest Technology and Infrastructure Upgrades:
To provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a digital world, we will advocate for cutting-edge technology in our schools. This includes modernizing our classrooms with the latest devices, educational software, and interactive learning platforms. Students must have access to up-to-date technology, from smartboards and tablets to STEM labs and coding programs, so they are prepared for the demands of the future. Equally important is ensuring that infrastructure upgrades—like enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, energy-efficient facilities, and modernized learning spaces—keep pace with the evolving educational landscape. We will push for ongoing investments in both technology and physical infrastructure to create state-of-the-art learning environments.

Advanced Education and Electives:
We believe that every student deserves access to a well-rounded education that includes diverse opportunities for advanced learning. This means offering advanced education options and a broad array of electives that cater to different student interests, talents, and career paths. By expanding these options, we can encourage students to explore their passions, whether in science, the arts, technology, or beyond, while ensuring that they are prepared for college, careers, and life.

Practical Policies and Suitable Curricula:
Our curriculum must be forward-thinking and adaptable, preparing students not only for academic achievement but also for real-world challenges. We will advocate for practical policies that emphasize both foundational skills and advanced educational opportunities, ensuring students are equipped with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills needed in today’s global society. A modern curriculum should also integrate technological literacy, financial literacy, and career-ready skills.

Academic Excellence:
Academic excellence should be accessible to every student. We will push for a challenging yet supportive academic environment that encourages all students to reach their full potential. By raising academic standards and providing targeted support to those who need it, we can ensure that every student is prepared for the future. Additionally, we believe in measuring student success not only through test scores but also through a broader set of achievements that reflect their individual growth and learning.

Teacher Support and Retention:
Talented and effective teachers are the cornerstone of a great school system. We are committed to providing the resources, professional development, and respect that our teachers deserve. By fostering a supportive environment where teachers feel valued, we can improve teacher retention and attract the best educators to our district. The well-being and satisfaction of our teachers directly impact the quality of education our students receive, so ensuring their success is a top priority.

Mental Health Programs:
Supporting students’ mental health is crucial for their overall well-being and academic performance. We will advocate for the expansion of mental health programs that promote awareness, provide necessary resources, and offer professional support to students in need. Our schools must not only focus on academic success but also create an environment where students feel emotionally safe, supported, and empowered to take care of their mental health.