RIVER VALE—Four candidates are seeking two open three-year seats on the local Board of Education, offering voters a choice between continuity and new perspectives. Incumbents Louan Austin and Virginia “Ginny” Senande emphasize fiscal discipline and academic achievement, while challengers Emily Leffler and Thomas Quinn call for a broader focus on student well-being, life skills, and teacher support.
River Vale Public Schools serves about 1,000 students in pre-K through grade 8 across three schools: Roberge Elementary School on Westwood Avenue, and Woodside Elementary School and Holdrum Middle School on Rivervale Road. Graduates attend Pascack Valley High School in the regional district shared with Hillsdale. The district emphasizes small class sizes—roughly 11 students per teacher—and strong performance in math and reading, consistently ranking among Bergen County’s high-achieving suburban districts.
The Candidates, Left to Right
Austin, a nine-year resident and mother of two daughters, is a professional photographer and part-time ABA therapist. A six-year Girl Scout volunteer and class parent, she has served on the board’s Curriculum and Technology Committee.
Senande, a 15-year resident, also the mother of two daughters, has served on the board since 2018. With two decades in education, she’s active as a CCD teacher, Girl Scout leader, and school committee member.
Leffler, a seven-year resident with two children, works as a human-resources consultant specializing in organizational development. She has served four years on the River Vale PTA Executive Board and volunteers with the Junior Football Association Cheer program.
Quinn, a 20-year resident and father of two grown children, is a high-school math teacher and coach at Northern Valley Regional High School (Old Tappan). Over three decades in education, he’s also coached youth soccer, baseball, and basketball locally.
Where They Stand
Austin says curriculum transparency, responsible spending, and student success remain her top goals.
“Thanks to our dedicated staff, our district has shown a continuous climb in performance on district assessment reports,” she said. “I am committed to supporting policies and initiatives that keep our schools on a path of strong academic achievement for all students. If re-elected, I will continue to collaborate with our Curriculum and Technology team.”
Senande focuses on fiscal stewardship and sustaining academic excellence amid rising costs.
“During my tenure we have kept the school-budget increase under 2 percent most years, despite minimal state aid and increases in health-benefit premiums and unfunded mandates,” she said. “At the same time, the administration has rolled out several academic initiatives to improve student achievement, especially in math and literacy.”
Leffler said she is running to ensure every child receives a high-quality, well-rounded education that develops both intellect and resilience.
“Education extends beyond academics,” she said. “I believe in equipping students with life skills, problem-solving abilities, and independence through rigorous instruction, extracurricular activities, and real-world learning opportunities.”
Her top goals include managing rising costs, supporting student well-being and growth, and retaining excellent educators through stronger professional development and recognition.
Quinn said his focus is on maintaining River Vale’s strong schools while adapting to new learning needs.
“Our school-aged children are our most important residents in town,” he said. “Twenty-first-century learning is ever changing, and we need to keep our children up to date with current styles of learning and technology to help them grow. I really do not have an agenda for running; I just want to see our town continue to provide good schools for our children.”
Find Out More
- Louan Austin: Louan Austin for River Vale Board of Education (Facebook)
- Virginia “Ginny” Senande: Virginia Senande for River Vale Board of Education (Facebook)
- Emily Leffler: Emily Leffler for River Vale Board of Education (Facebook)
- Thomas Quinn: No campaign site or social-media page listed.