To the editor:
What do you think of when you think, Park Ridge, New Jersey? Take a few minutes and let that sink in. To me, Park Ridge New Jersey is home. My hometown, my house, my family, my friends, and my schools.
I know firsthand what it was like to go to school every day in Park Ridge and let me tell you… it was truly wonderful. All the teachers I had were excellent and helped shape my learning path in their own unique way. I could tell you a story about each and every one and there wouldn’t be one negative thing I could say.
I also made terrific friendships all the way back in kindergarten at West Ridge Elementary. I also made new friends from the east side of town upon entering the high school. I’m 26 years old now and those friendships are still strong as ever. Park Ridge, through and through, has always been good to me.
That’s why deciding to run for the Park Ridge Board of Education was an easy choice. I did not overthink it. I was asked to run by a current board member and I wholeheartedly accepted. As an alumnus of the Park Ridge School District, K–12, it is my hope to be a voice of truth and compassion for the students across both elementary schools and the high school.
I understand that if elected I would be the youngest board member by far and that may be a hesitation for some people. I’m of the millennial generation but I can assure you that I’m a rare breed of millennial: I’m a millennial who cares. I care about the education and safety of the students because I was one. I care about the reputation of Park Ridge schools because I attended them. To be a voice for the students and the faculty would be an honor and a privilege.
I can only stress the importance of this role to me and the significance it would mean to be able to fulfill a commitment like this and give back to my community. Hope to see you all at the polls on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5!
Travis J. DeCotiis
Park Ridge
