BOE Candidate Gregory Fuller

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Bracketing with other candidates: While we each bring our own unique perspectives and experiences, I’m bracketed with Allan J. Storinge, Jr. because we share a common commitment to putting students first and supporting teachers. We also believe that decisions made by the board and the administration should be as transparent as possible. Together, we’re committed to listening to the community and working collaboratively to achieve meaningful, positive change for our schools.

Occupation: Husband, Father, Textile Industry Professional, Volunteer Firefighter

Personal background:

I was born and raised in Ridgewood, NJ, and attended the public school system there from kindergarten through 12th grade. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from the School of Education at University of Connecticut, where I also met my wife, Nicole. After graduating, I completed a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate from the Newington Orthotics and Prosthetics System at Newington Children’s Hospital and an internship with MBR Orthotics in Ridgewood, NJ. However, my career path shifted when my father passed away, and I stepped in to help my mother manage our family’s wood flooring manufacturing business.

For most of my career, I worked alongside my mother and my wife in the family business, while also partnering with my mother-in-law in an industrial sewing company. During this time, I developed the ability to handle unusual situations, interact with a wide variety of people, and solve complex problems—skills that have shaped my approach to leadership and management.

Today, Nicole and I are raising our three children in Glen Rock, where they all attended Central School for elementary and are now in 6th, 9th, and 11th grades. My diverse professional background and deep-rooted dedication to family and community will allow me to bring practical problem-solving and a collaborative approach to the Glen Rock Board of Education.

Public service background:

Throughout my life, public service has been a cornerstone of my values and actions. In high school, I volunteered at Valley Hospital, contributing my time to assist patients and staff. I also worked with Christian Overcomers, a Christ-centered nonprofit that provides outreach programs for adults with developmental and physical disabilities. During my college years, I was involved with Habitat for Humanity, where I helped build affordable housing for families in need. During my time at Newington Children’s Hospital, I volunteered alongside orthotists and prosthetists, assisting in fitting children with orthotic and prosthetic devices. I also volunteered as a den leader for Glen Rock Cub Scouts Pack 1, guiding young scouts in learning valuable skills and community values. More recently, I have volunteered with my children at Toni’s Kitchen, an organization dedicated to providing free meals to people who are underprivileged or homeless and experiencing food insecurity. Currently, I proudly serve as a firefighter for the Glen Rock Fire Department, alongside my son Jackson. Each of these experiences has deepened my commitment to serving others, and I am eager to bring this dedication to the Glen Rock Board of Education.

Reason for running:

I’ve lived in Glen Rock since 2012, and I’m deeply invested in this community—not only as a firefighter serving Glen Rock 24/7 but also as a parent. My wife and I have three children in the school system, so like many of you, I understand firsthand how critical it is to have a strong and supportive educational environment.

I am running for the Board of Education because I believe I can help make balanced, thoughtful decisions that prioritize our children’s success. My personal experience has shown me that while we have many strengths in Glen Rock, there are always areas that could use more attention, both in general education as well as special education. As a parent of a child with autism, I know the special education program can be a life-changing resource for students, and I want to ensure all children in Glen Rock have the opportunity to succeed.

My overall goal is simple: to work collaboratively, listen to all voices, support our teachers, and help shape policies that will benefit all students—academically and in extracurricular pursuits.

My experience as a parent navigating the system and as a community servant positions me as a balanced voice on the board. I believe serving others is a high calling, and I want to bring that same dedication to the Glen Rock Board of Education.

Candidate’s biggest issue:

I prioritize academic excellence, and I understand that this involves much more than just “teaching to the test.” We must ensure that our schools implement student-centered policies that empower students to succeed in all aspects of their adult lives. This includes nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, while also supporting their social, emotional, and mental well-being.

Extracurricular activities play a vital role in supporting academic excellence. Programs in athletics, the arts, STEM, cultural clubs, leadership and service opportunities, special interest groups, and technology and media activities all contribute to creating well-rounded students. These experiences complement the academic curriculum and help develop the skills needed for success both in school and life.

Teacher support and retention are critical to maintaining academic excellence. Great teachers inspire students to think critically, engage deeply with the material, and develop essential life skills. By investing in professional development, offering resources, and creating an environment where teachers feel valued and supported, we ensure that our educators can continue to drive student success. Retaining skilled and motivated teachers is key to long-term academic achievement.

Finally, transparency and accountability in decision-making are vital so the community feels engaged and confident in the choices made by the Board of Education and the administration. It’s essential to openly communicate the rationale behind policies to foster trust and ensure decisions are always made in the best interest of our children.

Campaign slogan and meaning:

N/A

Approach to budget cuts and spending:

As a candidate, I would focus on balancing fiscal responsibility while ensuring programs that directly impact student success are protected. If faced with cuts in state aid, my spending priorities would include maintaining academic excellence, supporting teachers, and ensuring access to special education and extracurricular activities with a focus on equity and inclusion.

Transparency and accountability are critical, and it’s important to note that these principles come at no cost. I would work closely with the community to make thoughtful financial decisions, keeping the public informed and engaged. My goal is to ensure that all students have the resources they need to thrive, even in the face of financial challenges, without resorting to controversial solutions.

Additional information about candidate:

Thank you for the opportunity to share more about myself and my campaign for the Glen Rock Board of Education. As a lifelong local resident, parent of three children in the district, and a volunteer firefighter, my commitment to this community runs deep. I’m focused on ensuring that our schools provide academic excellence, strong extracurricular activities, and student and teacher support. I believe in transparency and accountability, so everyone in the community feels engaged in the decisions that impact their children.

If you’d like to learn more or reach out to me, you can connect with me on Facebook at [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565912524298](https://www.facebook.com/) or email me at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). I’d love to hear your thoughts and answer any questions you might have! Together, we can make a positive impact for our children’s future.