By Lois Stass
The Bellmawr Board of Education is urging community residents to vote in the Annual School Election on Tuesday, April 15.
\”The local school board plays an essential role in the education that our children receive,\” said Mr. Ronald Henry. \”On April 15, voters will have the opportunity to select the men and women who will set the policies under which our community\’s schools will operate. Voters will also weigh in on the proposed school district budget.
\”But citizens cannot be heard if they don\’t exercise their right to vote.\”
Mr. Henry explained the school board\’s \”essential role\” in education.
The local board of education sets policies in areas such as classroom instruction, student discipline, and the use of school facilities. These policies guide the school administration in managing the educational program.
The school board approves the local district\’s proposed budget for presentation to the voters.
It negotiates employee contracts, and approves the hiring of teachers, administrators and other staff.
1,600 Races Statewide, more than 1,600 board of education positions will be on the ballot on April 15.
Voters can become familiar with candidates and the issues affecting the Bellmawr Public Schools in a number of ways, according to Henry. Newspapers and local-access cable stations cover school board elections and frequently profile candidates. In addition, local Leagues of Women Voters, Parents\’ organizations and community groups often sponsor candidates\’ forums.
Voter Information- To participate in the Annual School Election, a citizen must be a registered voter in his or her municipality. Citizens not currently registered may do so by March 25, 2008 to be eligible to vote in the April 15 Annual School Election. Registration information is available from the municipal clerk or the county board of elections.
Voters unable to go to the polls on April 15 may apply for absentee ballots, which are available at the county clerk\’s office. Residents can apply to their county clerk for absentee ballots by mail. County clerks must receive mail applications by April 8. In addition, voters have until 3 p.m. on April 14 for absentee ballots in person at the office of the county clerk. Absentee ballots must be received by the board of elections or the designee no later than 9 a.m. on the date of the election.
Polling Times, 2 – 9 p.m. at Bellmawr Park School, 29 Peach Road and E. M. Burke School, 112 South Black Horse Pike.
Polling information is also contained in sample ballots mailed to all registered voters prior to the election.
\”Local school board membership is an important public office – one that affects the quality of life in our community,\” said Henry. \”I urge voters to make sure their voices are heard on April 15.\”
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