Six School Board Candidates Tackle Trust, Achievement Gaps and ICE at Montclair Forum

October 22, 2026 - 18:16

The six candidates running for three seats on the Montclair Board of Education fielded questions during a forum Wednesday night hosted by the Montclair PTA Council and other organizations.

The event gave residents a chance to hear the contenders address several of the district's most pressing issues, including public trust in the board, persistent achievement gaps among students and the district's policies regarding federal immigration enforcement.

Candidates were pressed on how they would rebuild confidence in a board that has faced criticism over transparency and decision making in recent months. Several hopefuls said the district needs clearer communication with families and a more open budget process.

On the achievement gap, the candidates discussed disparities in test scores and access to advanced coursework, with most agreeing that targeted resources and earlier intervention are needed. The topic of ICE drew pointed questions about how schools would respond if federal agents sought access to campuses or student records. Candidates broadly supported keeping schools as safe spaces for all students while acknowledging the legal limits districts face.

The forum drew a steady audience of parents and community members, many of whom submitted questions in advance. Three seats on the board are up for grabs in the upcoming election, and the field of six means voters will have real choices to make about the direction of the district.

Candidates closed with brief statements urging residents to turn out and vote, noting that local school board races often have the most direct impact on families.