In a letter to the editor, Hoboken Board of Education Trustee Alex De La Torre explains why he feels the “Leadership that Delivers” slate is the best choice on November 4th.
Dear Editor,
I have proudly served for seven years on the Hoboken Board of Education and it has been an exceptionally valuable, fulfilling, and rewarding experience to give back to the community.
Although I intend to remain deeply invested in the success of Hoboken’s public schools, I made the decision not to seek another term.
During my tenure, I ran alongside Leslie Norwood and Antonio Graña as part of the 2022 Leadership that Listens slate, one of the most challenging election years our district has faced.
The issues before us were complex; community tensions were high.
But with our team’s hard work, fortitude and dedication, we ultimately contributed to: a Board that was committed to continuing strong academic outcomes, long-deferred investments in facilities, and financial stability.
Those improvements didn’t happen by accident—they came from trustees who did their homework, asked hard questions, and stayed focused on students.
As I look to this year’s election, I see that same drive and commitment embodied in the Leadership that Delivers slate of Leslie Norwood, Antonio Graña, and Lizy Vélez.
Getting to know Lizy, I’m confident she brings the same energy and dedication that has driven recent progress.
Strong boards benefit from thoughtful, healthy debate and even opposing viewpoints. Trustees should feel empowered to stand up for what they believe for the betterment of the community.
Passion for our schools and our children is not a flaw; it’s a prerequisite for real progress.
As we promised in 2022, I believe Antonio, Leslie and Lizy will continue to ask the questions that need to be asked, do the necessary work, and advocate for transparency and community engagement.
As a private citizen, I urge voters to keep Hoboken’s momentum going by supporting candidates who have demonstrated integrity, commitment, experience and results.
Our schools are stronger today than they were in 2022. Let’s continue building on that success together.
I am supporting Graña – Norwood – Velez 4F, 5F, 6F.
[The statements above are made in my capacity as a private citizen, and not in my capacity as a board member. These statements are also not representative of the board or its individual members, and solely represent my own personal opinions.]
Alex De La Torre
“Healthy debate” is good — we need more of it in Hoboken and Washington. These folks have my vote — the cabal must be broken up. Congrats for what they have done — time for some different perspectives and dynamics….