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Call us 877-451-9251Water Damage Restoration in Paterson, NJ
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Paterson Charter School for Science and Technology in Paterson to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Paterson, NJ is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Paterson. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in Paterson, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Paterson.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Paterson, NJ
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Complete Care At Fair Lawn Edge in Paterson for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Paterson, NJ, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Paterson?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in Paterson. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Paterson, NJ, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Paterson Museum in Paterson, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Paterson restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Paterson, NJ, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Paterson, NJ
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Paterson, NJ, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Riverside Manor in Paterson. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Paterson rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Paterson, NJ
Charade or bad memory? Lawyers at odds over passcode on Paterson councilman’s cell
Joe Malinconicohttps://www.northjersey.com/story/news/paterson-press/2024/09/30/lawyers-paterson-nj-councilman-michael-jackson-cell-passcode/75457429007/
PATERSON — The Attorney General’s Office on Monday accused city Councilman Michael Jackson of intentionally defying a court order by not providing state investigators with the passcode for his cellphone.The Attorney General’s Office seized Jackson’s phone more than 16 months ago as part of a probe looking at allegations of witness tampering in the ...
PATERSON — The Attorney General’s Office on Monday accused city Councilman Michael Jackson of intentionally defying a court order by not providing state investigators with the passcode for his cellphone.
The Attorney General’s Office seized Jackson’s phone more than 16 months ago as part of a probe looking at allegations of witness tampering in the state's 2020 election fraud case against him.
But investigators have not been able to get access to the contents of the phone, even after Jackson gave them what he said he thought were its possible passcodes.
“We think that Mr. Jackson still knows his passcode and this is all a charade to ignore your honor’s order,” Frank Valdinoto, deputy chief of the Corruption Bureau in the attorney general's Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, said during a court hearing Monday afternoon in Paterson.
Story continues below photo gallery.
Jackson’s lawyer, Scott Finckenauer, said Jackson simply couldn’t remember the code for his phone.
“How would you learn that you don’t remember what it is until you try what you think it might be and you learn it’s wrong?” Finckenauer said.
The Attorney General’s Office on Monday was asking Superior Court Judge Sohail Mohammed to find Jackson in contempt of court over the cellphone situation. But the councilman’s lawyer called into question the regulation cited by the state.
As a result, Mohammed directed the Attorney General’s Office to file a revised contempt of court motion in three weeks and scheduled a hearing for Nov. 13.
Jackson consistently has professed his innocence for the past 51 months in the long-delayed original election fraud cause and scoffed at the suggestion that he tampered with any witnesses. The state has accused him of violating New Jersey’s laws regarding mail-in ballots in Paterson’s 2020 council election, in which all voting was done through absentee ballots because of COVID-19.
The state also filed charges in June 2020 accusing Paterson’s current City Council president, Alex Mendez, of breaking election law. The Attorney General’s Office filed a second set of complaints involving the 2020 election against Mendez last autumn, charges that also named his wife and campaign workers.
Paterson Music Project to Continue Serving Local Students
Gabriella Dragonehttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/paterson/sections/education/articles/paterson-music-project-to-continue-serving-local-students
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...Last updated October 1, 2024 at 9:39 PMPATERSON, NJ - The Paterson Music Project (PMP) will continue for the 2024-2025 school year as the Paterson School Distric...
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
Last updated October 1, 2024 at 9:39 PM
PATERSON, NJ - The Paterson Music Project (PMP) will continue for the 2024-2025 school year as the Paterson School District has renewed its partnership with the Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts. The contract, valued at $376,308, supports an After-School Instrumental Music Program aimed at enriching students' music education. PMP serves over 500 students from 25 schools, providing free instruments and fostering community engagement through programs like orchestra, band, and choir.
The program operates four days a week and on Saturdays, targeting students in grades 2-9. It was inspired by the Venezuelan El Sistema model and is designed to increase students’ interest in performing arts, with opportunities to participate in orchestras and ensembles.
The program has garnered recognition for its impact on students’ lives, providing instruments at no cost and fostering parental involvement.
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The district evaluated the Wharton Institute’s proposal based on a range of criteria, including past success and program cost, to ensure high-quality music education for Paterson students.
The Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts, based in Wharton, New Jersey, has a longstanding relationship with Paterson. It has worked with local schools and communities for several years, earning a reputation for delivering high-quality, engaging music education. Known for its robust arts education programs, the Institute has previously collaborated with Paterson schools to provide instrumental music instruction, fostering young talent in music and the performing arts.
The After-School Instrumental Music Program will be integrated as an extended learning opportunity available to students across the district who are interested in learning instrumental music.
The expected outcomes for the program during the 2024-2025 school year include exposing students to the performance aspects of instrumental music, whether as part of a full orchestra or jazz ensemble, officials said. Additionally, the program aims to increase student interest and participation in the performing arts, encouraging more students to explore music as a potential career or lifelong passion.
Paterson's best hope for boxing glory is Erik Mendez, a 19-year-old airport worker
Frank Scandalehttps://www.northjersey.com/story/news/passaic/paterson/2024/10/20/erik-mendez-paterson-nj-boxing-best-hope-glory/75721564007/
Erik Mendez’s day looks like this.Rise in the middle of the night for his job at the airport where he helps disabled passengers navigate the terminals. In the early afternoon, he heads home and works out on his own before putting in some hours at Ike & Randy’s with the heavy and speed bags, rope skipping, one-on-one with Ossie Duran or another trainer, maybe some rounds of sparring.He heads home, eats, and heads to bed around 8 p.m. before repeating.A recent Instagram post saw him doing dip...
Erik Mendez’s day looks like this.
Rise in the middle of the night for his job at the airport where he helps disabled passengers navigate the terminals. In the early afternoon, he heads home and works out on his own before putting in some hours at Ike & Randy’s with the heavy and speed bags, rope skipping, one-on-one with Ossie Duran or another trainer, maybe some rounds of sparring.
He heads home, eats, and heads to bed around 8 p.m. before repeating.
A recent Instagram post saw him doing dips on two cafeteria chairs at 5 a.m. during a break at work.
“All the coaches help me out,” he explains, and his affinity for the place, the people, and the process is impossible not to hear. “I talk to them. They keep me off the streets. The trainers help me out one way or the other.”
His folks are supportive, he says, as is his girlfriend, Joshlyn, the mother of his daughter, Isabella. His father has been to the gym to check It out.
Ken De Berry, a trainer who also runs the finances for the gym, says Mendez came on strong when he first arrived, winning his first five fights all by knockout. He had trouble getting opponents once word got out.
“Erik has heart. And a great jab,” De Berry said.
“He’s got talent. He listens. He learns and he executes,” gym owner Phil Shevack said. “He learns right away and makes adjustments right away. If he is in with a boxer, he’ll box. If he is in with a puncher, he’ll punch.
“You tell him something once, it’s ingrained,” Shevack said, tapping his temple for emphasis.
With Mendez’s busy schedule siphoning off valuable training time, Shevack recently declared Mendez was not in fighting shape yet. Still, he matched him up with a younger but more experienced fighter from Newark, Ramon Ordonez, who is trained by his ex-boxer father and has about 50 fights under his belt.
Trainer Ron Bacote, aka Rasul, and Duran tag team Mendez’s coaching from the corner.
“Stepping in,” Rasul barks. ’There you go. Back him up with a jab.”
By the sixth, three-minute round, Shevack joins the coaching, and more gym goers crowd ringside as the action intensifies. Ordonez is grunting with his punches. The human eye can’t record the flurry of punches.
“Behind the jab,” Shevack shouts. “Behind the jab.”
The action electrifies the gym and a litany of other young fighters glue their eyes to the bout.
Mendez was 14 when some friends mentioned the gym. “They introduced me to boxing and I said, “Wait, I get to punch people in the face with gloves?' "
Mendez was 9-0 when he suffered his first loss. Then his girlfriend got pregnant, he left the gym, but he stayed with the training on his own. De Berry and Shevack acknowledged his disappearance, and his determination. Mendez soon returned and won his next two fights.
“I had to get settled with the baby – then there was a car crash – there are always little setbacks. That’s life,” he said, hinting at a wisdom beyond his years. “Now, I’m in the best shape of my life. I am ready for the next level of competition.
His quest for pro status drives him. As does his will to provide for his new family. His parents checked out the gym and his mother even worked out there for a few weeks.
“I took her on runs at night,” he smiles. “Some of my friends are out partying and having fun. That is not my path. I can't be hanging around rappers and artists if I want to be a professional boxer. That’s a different world. Everybody has to do it their way. “
He understands the role the gym plays in his life and the lives of others.
“Kids would rather be here and doing something positive,” he said. “You have to get in here and stay away from the streets. Choices. It’s about choices. And I am still making them.
“You can’t have one foot in the streets and one out. You gotta be committed to something.”
He philosophizes in a bit of Muhammed Ali style while he snaps punches: “Skills pays the bills.”
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Early in-person voting has begun in New Jersey. Here's what you should know
Kristie Cattafihttps://www.northjersey.com/story/news/2024/10/26/early-in-person-voting-has-begun-in-nj-heres-what-you-should-know/75866325007/
2-minute read...
2-minute read
In-person voting has begun in New Jersey.
The polls opened at designated early-voting locations at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26.
Early voting will continue through Sunday, Nov. 3.
Polls will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with no appointments necessary.
Voting takes place at specific early locations in each county that are likely different from the local polling place used on Election Day.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Polls will be open 6 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Where to vote early in person in Bergen County
Where to vote early in person in Passaic County
More:Our guide to New Jersey's 2024 elections for federal, local and school races
Where to vote early in person in Essex County
Where to vote early in person in Morris County
Where to vote early in person in Sussex County
Paterson BOE Candidate: Erica Plaza
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/paterson/columns/voter-guide-2024-paterson-board-of-educ/articles/paterson-boe-candidate-erica-plaza
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... By Gabriella DragoneOccupation: School AdministratorPersonal background:**_Erica Plaza is a devoted parent, passionate educator, and committed community advocate. With a rich background in education and a deep-rooted commitment to the community, Erica brings a wealth of experience and insight to her campaign and promises to be a trans...
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
By Gabriella Dragone
Occupation: School Administrator
Personal background:
**_Erica Plaza is a devoted parent, passionate educator, and committed community advocate. With a rich background in education and a deep-rooted commitment to the community, Erica brings a wealth of experience and insight to her campaign and promises to be a transformative leader for the Paterson school district._**
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**_As an experienced educator, Erica has spent over a decade in the field, where she has successfully collaborated with fellow educators to enhance the learning environment for students. Her work in schools has always been guided by the belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality education that nurtures their unique talents and abilities. Erica's hands-on experience in and out of the classroom has given her a comprehensive understanding of the challenges teachers face, enabling her to be an effective advocate for educators and students alike._**
Past and Current Involvement in the Paterson Public Schools:
Worked at the following schools:
School 2: 2007 -2009
School 13: 2009 - 2011
School 2: 2012 - 2020
Community Charter School of Paterson: 2020-present
Public service background:
**_Erica has been an active community advocate in Paterson. Through her work at the New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) and the Paterson Art Exchange (PAX), Erica has led initiatives to create outlets for expression, creativity, and learning, recognizing that a well-rounded education extends beyond traditional academics. As a dedicated committee member of the Puerto Rican Day Parade, Erica has worked tirelessly to celebrate and uplift Puerto Rican culture and heritage. She has been instrumental in developing events that not only showcase the vibrant traditions and history of Puerto Rico but also provide community members with opportunities to explore their passions, develop new skills, and express themselves creatively. Through her efforts, Erica strives to honor her cultural roots and inspire others to take pride in their heritage._**
Reason for running:
**_As a lifelong resident of Paterson, Erica Plaza is deeply invested in the success and well-being of her community. If elected as Commissioner, Erica is committed to bringing her vision of a vibrant, equitable, and inclusive educational system to life, ensuring that every student in Paterson has the opportunity to thrive._**
**_With Erica Plaza on the Paterson Board of Education, residents can expect a dedicated leader who will tirelessly advocate for the needs of students, families, and educators, working to create a brighter future for the entire community._**
Candidate's biggest issue:
Erica will prioritize several key issues, including addressing educational equity, ensuring that all students have access to quality education, resources, and opportunities, regardless of their background or zip code. Erica will focus on:
1. Equitable Funding: Advocating for fair distribution of resources to underfunded schools.
2. Curriculum Inclusivity: Ensuring the curriculum reflects diverse perspectives and histories.
3. Support for Disadvantaged Students: Implementing programs that support students with disabilities, English language learners, and those facing economic hardships.
4. Mental Health Resources: Prioritizing mental health support and counseling services for students.
5. Community Engagement: Involving parents and community members in decision- making processes to better reflect local needs.
By focusing on these areas, Erica will help create a more inclusive and effective educational environment for all students.
Campaign slogan and meaning:
Every Child Matters
Approach to budget cuts and spending:
Erica anticipates coping with cuts in state aid to the local school district by focusing on several strategic approaches:
1. Budget Prioritization: Assessing and prioritizing essential programs and services to ensure that the most critical needs are met even with reduced funding.
2. Diversifying Funding Sources: Actively seeking alternative funding through grants, partnerships with local businesses, and community fundraising initiatives to supplement state aid.
3. Community Engagement: Involving parents, community members, and local
organizations in discussions about funding challenges and potential solutions to foster collective support.
4. Efficiency Measures: Identifying areas where efficiencies can be gained, such as reducing administrative costs or streamlining operations, to preserve funding for classroom instruction.
5. Advocacy: Engaging in advocacy efforts at the state level to address funding inequities and push for increased support for public education.
6. Transparent Communication: Keeping the community informed about funding challenges and the impact on schools, which can help garner support for budgetary decisions.
Additional information about candidate:
**_Being a single parent of three sons has further fueled Erica's dedication to education. As a mother, she understands the importance of parental involvement in a child's education and is committed to fostering stronger connections between schools and families. Her experience navigating the school system as a parent has equipped her with valuable insights into the needs and concerns of parents and students, making her a strong voice for families in the community._**
The template and supplemental resources for this voter guide were developed in collaboration with the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University.
All candidates were contacted for their responses. The information is presented exactly as the responses were received.
Disclaimer:
