Monroe Board of Education President and Middlesex County School Boards Vice President, Gail DiPane, has made unacceptable racist comments regarding families and students in the New Brunswick School District. These remarks, captured on video and available for the public to see on the district website, undermine the values of equality and inclusivity that educational institutions vow to uphold.

Gail DiPane holds a  responsibility as an influencer and policy maker in our schools. Her comments not only hurt those she directly targets, but also set a damaging example to students, who look up to the educators and leaders guiding their futures. By allowing such views to be associated with leadership, we are reinforcing prejudices and ignoring our commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive educational environment for all—regardless of race, ethnicity, or background.

New Brunswick has a school district population that is 92% Hispanic/Latino. DiPane is President of the Monroe School District which includes students from Jamesburg attending the Monroe Twp High School. Jamesburg School District serves a large Hispanic/Latino population (58%).  DiPane's comments targeting Hispanic/Latino students is unacceptable and harm not only students in New Brunswick but also the district where she is President of the Board of Education in Monroe. Furthermore, as Middlesex County School Board Association Vice President, she holds a position that affects all districts in the country in addition to New Brunswick and Jamesburg.  Those include  South River (50% hispanic students), North Brunswick (40% hispanic students), Perth Amboy (40% hispanic students), Woodbridge (30% hispanic students)

Education is more than just textbooks and tests; it is about building an environment where every child feels safe, respected, and valued. When an elected official behaves in a manner contrary to these fundamental principles, swift action is necessary to maintain our community's trust and to provide a positive role model for students.

We are calling on the Monroe Board of Education and the Middlesex County School Boards Association to take decisive action. Gail DiPane must resign from her positions immediately to uphold the integrity of our educational systems and to demonstrate that racism has no place in our schools. Our children deserve leaders who reflect the diversity of our community and uphold values of empathy, respect, and equality.

Join me in standing up for the students of New Brunswick and beyond. Demand accountability and leadership change by signing this petition. Together, we can reinforce our commitment to creating inclusive and nurturing educational environments for every student. 

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