Ann Vardeman, Dan Battey, and Francisco Maldonado-Ramírez for Highland Park Board of Education

Who
we are

All three of us are long-time residents of Highland Park who love this town, and recognize the key role that its schools play in stitching together the framework of our vibrant community. We are committed to improving Highland Park's schools and ensuring that all Highland Park students get the high quality education that they deserve while being responsible stewards of the public’s investment. We’re committed to working to help Highland Park’s schools by:

Fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all our children
Working with elected representatives at every level of government to communicate the needs of our students, facilities, and community
Leveraging all available State and Federal funding resources available
Developing a curriculum and opportunities to prepare our students for college and for other career development pathways
Ensuring responsible and transparent fiscal management
Continuing efforts to expand access to preschool
Continuing to improve communication between families and the school district

Ann Vardeman

My husband and I have lived in Highland Park for 16 years and have two kids in the Highland Park Public School system - a 6th grader and a 2nd grader. I work in government relations in Trenton and have 15 years experience working on legislation and policy at the municipal, state, and federal level. I have been serving on the Highland Park Board of Education since being appointed to fill a vacancy in late 2023. I currently serve on the Facilities & Finance Committee and as Board Vice-President.
Dan Battey

I've lived in Highland Park for 16 years and have worked in public education for over 25 years. As a Professor of Mathematics Education in the Graduate School of Education at Rutgers, I train teachers and work with schools so that they can better serve our communities. Like Ann, I've been serving on the Board of Education since being appointed in 2023, during which time I have focused on curriculum, professional development and issues of equity in the schools.
Francisco Maldonado-Ramírez

I’ve lived in Highland Park for 17 years, and my wife and I have two kids (5th and 3rd grade) at Bartle. I’m an attorney for a labor union, specializing in advocacy and policy development in New Jersey and Puerto Rico, where I’m originally from. Before working for the union, I spent 9 years in policymaking positions with both the New Jersey Assembly and Senate. I’m hoping my knowledge of New Jersey government and crafting policy can be useful in helping to fostering the best educational experience for all the children served by our schools.