Robert Benacchio*

Robert holds a BA, from Drew University and a J.D. Seton Hall University School of Law. I am an attorney, however, for the past 7 years, I have grown and managed a commercial real estate, development, and third-party logistics firm. I evaluate plans, manage development teams, and oversee budgets, schedules, and finances. It is my job to make moons and stars align. I will use this professional expertise to lead the most significant facilities improvements undertaken in half a century.

I am a parent, and all three of my kids have been in the District since Kindergarten. I’ve served many roles in the community but loved my time coaching the most. I am running to continue looking out for the kids I coached and all Westfield families.

My experience on the Board is also important. I have learned about the Board and education law and policy, taking things talked about for decades and turning them into accomplishments, especially as President this year. My experience allows us to think bigger and accomplish more.

During my first term, the statements I made as a candidate became completed checklists. When reelected, I will see through our strategic plan, and the curricular, outreach, and operational improvements I started. I will lead building and grounds renovations and cooperation with the Town and community partners on budget savings.

For more information: Instagram: Benacchio_4westfieldboe; Linktree: https://linktr.ee/rhb4boe; Email: rhb4boe@gmail.com’

Mary Wickens*

Mary is a Westfield High School graduate with three children. She is a member of the child study team and case manager for special education students in Piscataway Township Schools, was previously a teacher at Tamaques for 14 years.

I am pleased to be running for a second term on the Westfield Board of Education. It has been impressive to see the growth that our board members, superintendent, administrators and students have made these past few years. As a long-time resident, I am proud of the work we have done on the board with Dr. Gonzalez to increase community engagement, communication, create new programs, retain superior staff and offer options for our children’s future.

Violetta Watson

Professionally, I am a technology attorney with 20 years of complex commercial law experience. I currently work as Commercial Counsel at Google, focusing on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and technology enterprise deals. I am a graduate of Columbia Law School (J.D., Law) and Rutgers University (B.A., Political Science & Journalism).

For the past four years, I have co-chaired the Westfield PTC Special Education Committee. In this role, I work closely with parents and administrators to support, educate, and create community for parents of special needs kids, and to provide input to District leadership on their behalf.

I am running to make a difference in my community. As a public school parent, a leader in the Westfield special education community, and a technology/ AI attorney, I will bring my commitment, experience and values to the Board of Ed to ensure we make decisions that put our kids first.

Learn more at: https://facebook.com/violetta.watson

Kristen Sonnek-Schmelz*

Kristen holds an M.S.Ed in Educational Leadership, M.B. in Biotechnology, and B.S. in Biology with minor in Secondary Education Helping children reach their fullest potential is my passion.

If reelected, I look forward to:

1. Supporting district leadership in executing the five year strategic plan.

2. Supporting administrators in implementing full-day Kindergarten.

3. Supporting the expansion of the District’s community connections through a student internship program with local businesses.

For more information: @SonnekSchmelz4WestfieldBOE

Editor’s Note: * Denotes Incumbent.

Bios were requested from the candidates. For those that did not supply a bio, if it was available, information was culled from official websites, press releases and candidate social media accounts.