Three incumbents are seeking reelection for three seats on the board of education in the Nov. 4 election. Each would serve a three-year term.
All of the candidates – Gregory Esemplare, Jaime Grookett and Linda Hochgertel – were asked to complete an election questionnaire. Responses have been lightly edited.
Name: Gregory Esemplare
Age: 57
How many years have you lived in Haddonfield? 21
Family: Wife, daughter and son
School and degree: BA, College of the Holy Cross
Profession: Insurance
How many years/terms have you served as the board? Four
What is your involvement in the community?
I am a volunteer for various organizations
Why are you running for reelection to the board?
I care about the community and school. We also just passed a referendum and I felt it was the responsible thing to see it to completion.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
Referendum completion under budget.
Name: Jaime Grookett
Age: 48
How many years have you lived in Haddonfield? 16
Family: Husband, daughter and son
School and degree: Rowan University, BA, BA-99, University of Pennsylvania (MSEd-00), Drexel University (MFA-22)
Profession: Teaching professor at Rowan University
How many years/terms have you served on the board? Six and a half
What is your involvement in the community?
Haddonfield Educational Trust; Haddonfield Foundation; second VP of Legislation, NJSBA Camden County; Drexel MFA Alumni Association co-president; Authors Guild, Philadelphia Chapter co-ambassador.
Why are you running for reelection to the board?
To continue the work I started in helping pass the bond referendum that will bring full-day kindergarten to Haddonfield and provide the space needed for our growing student population. I want to remain on the board to oversee construction and ensure we deliver on the promises made to our community. I am committed to supporting our district in maintaining the high-quality education and opportunities that make Haddonfield schools exceptional.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
While it’s important for board members to avoid focusing on just one area, since effective oversight requires openness to all issues facing the community, one priority I can identify now is ensuring proper oversight of the work funded by the recent bond referendum. Delivering on our promises to expand space and support full-day kindergarten is critical. That said, I recognize that the work of a board member changes day to day, and I am prepared to address whatever challenges and opportunities arise to support the students and families of Haddonfield.
Name: Linda Hochgertel
How many years have you lived in Haddonfield? 26
Family: Husband, two daughters
School and degree: Penn State University, Temple University. Bachelor’s with major in communications, with a concentration in journalism and advertising.
Profession: Information technology executive
How many years/terms have you served on the board?
I have served two consecutive terms; this will be my third.
What is your involvement in the community?
I have been actively involved in the Haddonfield community for many years, beginning with PTA leadership when my children were in elementary school and continuing through countless school volunteer activities. I have served on the board of governors for the Haddonfield Civic Association, volunteer annually with Feed My Starving Children and most recently have worked with local districts to advocate for fair school funding at the state level.
Why are you running for reelection to the board?
I’m running because I believe deeply in giving back to a school district that has given so much to my family. My goal is to ensure every child in Haddonfield has the opportunity to thrive. During my two terms on the board, including in leadership roles, I have focused on sustaining academic achievement, strengthening our school community and practicing fiscal responsibility. I would be honored to continue serving in this oversight role for another three years. I believe our schools are the heart of Haddonfield and vital to the strength of our entire community.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
I want to focus on successful implementation of the bond referendum projects approved last year. These investments in our facilities are critical to meeting the needs of current and future students. My priority is to ensure that these projects are completed responsibly; on schedule; and within budget, so that we deliver on the promises made to the community.
