To the Editor:

In our hearts, we hold a deeply-rooted belief — however trite or cliché it may sound — that our children, whether young or old, are the linchpin of our future. Although we find ourselves at very different points in our lives — with one of us embracing young adult grandchildren, and the other navigating the daily demands of parenting three young children, two of whom are currently in the Princeton Public Schools with the third soon to follow — we are bound by a shared commitment to the ideals that underscore the beliefs and values of raising children, education, and the prerequisites for a more promising tomorrow. It is this shared vision that compels us to lend our unreserved support for Michele Tuck-Ponder for the Princeton Board of Education.

Every child deserves the education that they need for success. This tenet transcends demographics and acknowledges that the color of a child’s skin, their socio-economic background, birthplace, primary language, or learning abilities should never be impediments to the quest for educational excellence. And every child deserves to be treated with equity, with no differentiation in how they are assessed, placed, rewarded, or punished. Equality means, without distinction, equal access to a broad range of opportunities. That means that every child has the same opportunity to participate in programs, sports, the arts, educational excursions, travel abroad, and the same opportunities to achieve academic excellence.

Achieving excellence and equity in education is hard work, and Michele has repeatedly demonstrated her commitment to doing this work. Being on the BOE can be taxing and time consuming, often requiring a commitment of up to 20 hours per week, making difficult decisions, rising above the political fray, staying true to one’s core values, understanding the legal constraints and fiduciary responsibilities of the position, and above all, prioritizing the safety (physical and emotional) of our children.

Michele has consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment to advocating for our children. We are privileged to know Michele on a personal level. We have witnessed her heart in action and observed her steadfast commitment and devotion to every child in the Princeton Public Schools, and that is why we are voting for Michele Tuck-Ponder for Princeton BOE. We hope you will, too.

Raphael Aryeetey
Greenbriar Row

Iona Harding
Fisher Avenue