Dear Neighbors,
I am honored to serve as a member of your Hopewell Valley Regional School District Board of Education. I was appointed to the school board in January, 2023 to serve a 1 year term when Deborah Linthorst retired. Now, more than ever, I’m convinced that this is a meaningful way to serve our community and especially our children. I would like to continue to do so and would greatly appreciate your support as I run for election on November 7th.
I am a parent, social scientist, and public servant. I am currently Director of the Office of Applied Research and Evaluation and Scientific Advisor at the New Jersey Department of Children and Families for the State of New Jersey. In this role, I support evidence-based policy and decision making within the Department by conducting research and evaluation projects focused on the safety, health and wellbeing of New Jersey residents. I bring this same passion for improving the lives of children and families through evidence and action to my role as a school board member.
As a parent of a first and third grader in Hopewell public schools, I hold a deep appreciation for the dedicated teachers and staff in our School District and am invested in the continued success of Hopewell’s students. We truly are among the best schools in New Jersey – and we can do even better. The crisis phase of the pandemic is over but we are now facing its fallout, in Hopewell and across the US. We are seeing higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal behavior in children than we’ve seen in years. Pandemic-related learning loss continues to impact students’ academic trajectories. These are complex challenges that require experienced leaders who are willing to address problems head-on with courage, collaboration and a commitment to using evidence to impact students’ lives for the better.
If elected, this is my promise to you:
- I will advocate for all students in our District: regardless of race, religion or ability, all students deserve access to a high-quality education in Hopewell schools.
- I will keep science and facts at the forefront of decision making: Policies achieve better outcomes for our students when they are informed by the best available evidence.
- I will always consider the whole child: We are facing a national youth mental health crisis. I will work to ensure our students have the social, emotional and mental health support they need to be successful learners.
I invite you to visit my website to learn more: https://plilleston.wixsite.com/pamelalilleston.
I look forward to seeing you at the polls on November 7th!
In partnership,
Pamela Lilleston, PhD, MHS
