Meet the candidates of the Jersey City Board of Education election 2025
In this year’s school-board contest in Jersey City, voters are watching closely as multiple slates vie for three open seats. With the election procedures now updated (including higher signature thresholds for candidates), the 2025 JCBOE vote is shaping up to be a meaningful indicator of how community stakeholders want to engage with public-school governance in the city. 7 candidates are vying for 3 seats.
Candidates and Slates:
Sumit “Sam” Salia
Sumit Salia maintains a position where he will start with a zero-base-line budget, focusing on smart, accountable spending that prioritizes what truly benefits students. Within the first year, he plans to launch independent audits every four months, address each school’s basic needs first, and introduce a fair teacher evaluation system tied to student performance and parent feedback. He also envisions a Teachers Academy offering free training and clear career paths, while partnering with local organizations to transform underused school facilities into hubs for learning, sports, and community growth. If you wish to register to vote, check out the process.
Who’s Sumit Sam Salia? Here’s his introduction in his own words – “I was raised with a strong sense of responsibility towards the well-being of those around me. My service in the military instilled in me a sense of duty and a commitment to defending our nation, and now, I’m eager to serve my local community. With 20 years of education and multiple degrees under my belt, I understand the importance of a quality education. My own child is enrolled in Jersey City schools, making this issue incredibly personal for me. I am deeply rooted in Jersey City, where I have been a hardworking taxpayer for years. Now, I must stand for the Jersey City School Board Elections 2025 to get the change we need as parents for our children and community.”
For Stronger Schools
The slate called “For Stronger Schools” comprises Aimee Sharrock, Brendan Doohan, and Lorenzo Richardson. They have been endorsed by former Governor Jim McGreevey and Councilman James Solomon. They argue that fewer than half of JCBOE students are proficient in reading, only a third are proficient in math, and over 25% were chronically absent.
Education Brings Solutions
The “Education Brings Solutions” slate includes incumbents Noemí Velázquez, Christopher Tisdale and Afaf Muhammad. They are running against the “For Stronger Schools” team. The incumbents’ slate emphasizes continuity, community relationships, and experience in the Board’s leadership.
Why should you, as parents, vote in the Jersey City Board of Education Election?
Parents should vote in the Board of Education election because the decisions made by the board directly shape their children’s education, safety, and future opportunities. From budgeting and curriculum choices to teacher support and facility improvements, every policy affects students’ daily lives. By voting, parents ensure their voices guide how schools are run and hold leaders accountable for delivering quality education.
When is the election?
The election for the Jersey City Board of Education (JCBOE) in Jersey City is scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025. In-person early voting across New Jersey will be available leading up to the general election, from October 25 through November 2, 2025.
Make sure your voter registration is up to date and check your county’s early-voting locations and hours well in advance.
Updated: October 23, 2025
