Quick Q & A With Berkeley Heights BOE Candidate Javier Morales

You have previously commented about your goal as a BOE member to be focused on student success. In what areas do you think the District is promoting individual academic success and what are some areas you think need improvement?

We need to take a closer look at what’s working and what isn’t to improve academic performance across all grade levels, especially in reading and math. Our students should be getting the support they need to build strong reading skills early on and stay engaged as they grow. Academics need to come first. We should be creating an environment where students are challenged, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential. At the high school level, that means giving them the tools and confidence they need for college or whatever path they choose next. Smaller class sizes also make a big difference by allowing teachers to give more individual attention. When families see strong academic results, they feel proud and confident keeping their children in our public schools. Not every family has the option to send their kids to private school — and they shouldn’t have to. Every child in Berkeley Heights deserves an excellent public education that prepares them for success.

What skill set do you bring to the BOE that will be crucial as we navigate a pricey Referendum? And what are your priorities with the Referendum?

I bring strong leadership, accountability, and the ability to make practical, fair decisions. My focus is always on what benefits our students the most. That starts with making sure our schools are healthy and safe learning environments. Fixing HVAC systems and maintaining our buildings must be top priorities. We can meet these needs responsibly by planning carefully and spending wisely, without putting unnecessary strain on taxpayers.

Over the past few years, political parties have been involving themselves into the campaigns for BOE. How do you feel about this?

The Board of Education should stay nonpartisan. Decisions about our schools should be based on what’s best for students , not politics. I want to keep the focus on education, open communication, and working together as a community to make our schools stronger.

What strengths will you bring to BHPS as a BOE member?

As a parent with children in the district, I understand firsthand what our students, teachers, and families experience every day. I’m fair, approachable, and committed to transparency. I believe in listening, asking questions, and working together to find the best solutions for our schools. My goal is always to do what’s right for students and the community as a whole.

What are the 3 main issues facing our schools today? And what are your goals to ensure academic success while remaining fiscally responsible for now and the future?

The three biggest challenges I see are improving academic performance, supporting student well-being, and addressing aging school facilities. My goal is to raise academic achievement while ensuring our schools are safe and healthy places to learn. We can do this by setting clear priorities, using resources wisely, and making thoughtful decisions that benefit both our students and taxpayers now and in the future.

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