BOE Candidate: School Board Service a 'High Calling'

Cinnaminson School Board Member Harry Shea considers serving on the board as a “high calling.”

“I have a deep interest in serving, being a lifelong resident of this community and a student of the district,” he explained. “It’s the most important local governing body one can serve on.”

That deep interest is what led Shea—who served 21 years (seven consecutive terms), 15 as president, then stepped down in 2011—to throw his name back in the hat when former board member Linda DiMassimo resigned earlier this year, and why he’s now seeking to hold onto that seat.

Shea said he wants to be a part of the major issues facing the district just over the horizon, including the capital projects—the district is still waiting to find out how much money the state is going to grant—and upcoming contract negotiations with the education association (the current contract expires on. June 30, 2014).

Additionally, he wants to further improve the education of Cinnaminson students, including through the use of technology in the classroom, which has become even more prevalent since Shea left in 2011.

“Education is an evolution. It changes to what society needs,” he said. “The board has to be open to that.”

Shea serves on the curriculum committee, and at one point or another has served on every school board committee there is, “including some that don’t exist anymore,” he said.

“We have a great district,” he said. “The work we do has a lasting impact on the students and a very definite impact on the community.”

Shea is one of three candidates running unopposed for three open seats on the board of education. Incumbents Jean Cohen (president) and Pam Crepps are also seeking reelection.