Ocean Township, Monmouth County: Following the pandemic and learning loss, our students & staff have unprecedented things on their plates. We must invest in comprehensive mental health services for all in our schools to be available when needed. We must continue to break the stigma when it comes to reaching out for assistance, as life is often difficult for all of us, and we truly are in this together, and addressing mental health needs is a critical part of that.

Steve Clayton has demonstrated that finding solutions to mental health issues is a critical issue for him. Having served on the School Board from 2015-2018, one of the issues Steve was a constant advocate for was the hiring of a full-time Student Assistance Counselor (SAC) at the high school. Previous to the hiring of that professional, the school district did a shared services agreement with the town for a part-time SAC. When Steve asked what the difference was between having someone part-time versus full-time, he was told that the former (given its time constraints) was more reactive in nature, while the latter could be more preventive in nature. Research has shown that prevention provides better solutions across the board, and investments in this area pay dividends not just in behavioral issues but in academic performance and life skills. If elected, Steve will continue to advocate for comprehensive and preventive measures to best serve our students and their families.

About Steve: Steve is a proud Ocean graduate who graduated from the University of Maryland-College Park and Carnegie Mellon University. He presently serves as Director of Development for a statewide nonprofit focused on ensuring that children can grow up safe, healthy, and educated. Steve is an avid runner, reader, and history buff.