Three candidates – one two incumbents – are vying for seats on the Voorhees Township Board of Education in the election on Nov. 4. Winners will serve three-year terms.
The candidates – incumbents Jacob Rosner and Maureen Rutter and Alison Smyth – were asked to submit an election questionnaire. Answers have been lightly edited for space.
Name: Jacob Rosner
Age: 41
Residence: Voorhees for four years
Family: Two children in Voorhees schools
Education: Ithaca College, bachelor’s in science, JD from Drexel University
Profession: Cybersecurity consultant and general counsel
Is this your first time running? No. I was elected to the Voorhees Board of Education in 2022 and am currently finishing my first term.
Community involvement: Committee work, parent outreach and community engagement. Coached youth teams for the past four years.
Why are you running?
I believe we’ve made some great strides in the last three years I’ve served on the board, but there is more work to be done. This includes expanding initiatives I’ve supported such as implementing world language education in elementary school and creating after-school clubs. Generally, I believe public education is a cornerstone of our democracy. I want to provide a strong foundation to push back against harmful cuts to education, and have been committed to volunteering in community efforts that directly impact the success and well-being of our kids.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
I’d like to concentrate on giving our students the tools to navigate our increasingly digital and siloed information systems. I want to focus on creating programs that help them develop the skills to use digital technology responsibly, including recognizing deepfakes and misinformation, so they are better prepared to think critically, stay safe online, and thrive in a world where truth and accuracy are increasingly challenged.
Name: Maureen R. Rutter
Age: 44
Residence: Five years in Voorhees
Family: Husband Craig, daughter Charley Ruth, son Carson
Education: Rutgers University, BA in Sociology and Psychology; Rowan University, MST in Elementary Education; post-graduate certifications in Special Education, Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant and Supervisor
Profession: Professor
Is this your first time running?
No. I am finishing my first three-year term on the board of education.
Community involvement: Active volunteer at ET Hamilton and Voorhees Middle schools
Why are you running for reelection?
I am running for reelection for the board of education because I have dedicated my entire career to education. I feel strongly that educators should have a voice on a board. I will always advocate for what is in the best interest of all learners in our district and the amazing staff who support them.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if reelected?
The continuous improvement of academic rigor at Voorhees Middle School to prepare our scholars for high school and beyond.
Name: Alison Smyth
Age: 48
Residence: Voorhees, 11.5 years
Family: Married to husband Matthew, one son, age 10
Education: Towson University, BS in Speech Pathology and Audiology; Bloomsburg University, MS in Deaf Education; Fairleigh Dickinson University, Certificate in Orton Gillingham
Profession: Teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing for 23 years, Certified Orton Gillingham Teacher
Is this your first time running? Yes
Community involvement: Active in my son’s school and my synagogue. Participates in community events and township activities.
Why are you running for an elected seat?
I firmly believe that educators bring the best perspective to the board of education, understanding the intricacies of the educational system and the needs of both students and teachers. My wealth of experience equips me with the insights to contribute effectively to the development and implementation of policies that foster academic excellence and support the growth of every student and teacher. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to actively participate in shaping the future of education within our community.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
My main focus in running for the board is supporting teachers and strengthening curriculum so every child has the best opportunity to learn and grow. I believe when teachers have what they need, students thrive. I care deeply about making sure our children receive a strong, well-rounded education that prepares them for our future.
