To the Editor:
I’m running as a write-in candidate for the Hopewell Valley School Board. As a mom of three (a 6th grader and 1st grade twins at Bear Tavern), I’m deeply invested in our community and the future of our schools. My husband and I both grew up locally—me in Montgomery and him in Lawrence—and we chose to live here to raise our family because we value the strong, supportive environment that Hopewell offers.
As a licensed clinical social worker with a PhD in Social Work from Rutgers, I’ve spent my career working with individuals facing mental health, substance use, and trauma. These experiences have reinforced my belief that our schools must prioritize the well-being of every child. In addition to my professional work, I serve as a Girl Scout troop leader. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to provide opportunities that help our children grow into confident individuals ready to make a positive impact.
Our community is growing, and with that growth comes concerns about managing increased enrollment while maintaining the close-knit, small-school feel that has always been a hallmark of Hopewell Valley. If elected, I will:
- Preserve Our Small-School Culture: I will advocate for policies and practices that ensure students receive personalized support.
- Maintain High Academic Standards: I will ensure that every student is challenged, supported, and thriving.
- Strengthen Social-Emotional Learning: I will support curriculum that emphasizes building the resilience and empathy needed in an increasingly complex world.
- Enhance Community Engagement: I will ensure that all community members have a strong voice in decisions about how we manage growth and maintain the unique character of our schools.
Our school system is at a pivotal moment, and I believe that with thoughtful, compassionate leadership, we can navigate these changes. It would be an honor to serve and help guide our schools forward on a path that respects our past while embracing the future.
Dr. Amanda Stylianou,
Hopewell Township, NJ
