Gov. Phil Murphy has demonstrated time and time again that he believes in the power of public education. Since taking office in 2017, he’s worked tirelessly to repair the damage done to our profession by former Gov. Chris Christie. Gov Murphy has increased school funding to unprecedented levels, championed Chapter 78 relief, and signed both ESP Job Justice bills into law. He’s the first governor in 25 years to make a full pension payment, while also expanding access to pre-school and tuition-free community college in communities across the state. His actions demonstrate his commitment to the people who work in our public schools. In short, he’s re-defined how a political leader can positively influence public schools, and it shows.

When it counted most, as the threat of COVID-19 crept toward our schools, Gov. Murphy stepped up. Since March of 2020, he’s made the difficult decisions that kept educators and students safe. As a result of his advocacy at the federal level, he’s secured enough vaccines that are now available to all school employees on a priority basis.

For four years, he’s been unafraid to show his support for public schools. Gov. Murphy has made a difference for us, and now it’s time for us to make a difference for him.