A firebrand is defined as: “a person who is passionate about a particular cause, typically inciting change and taking radical action.” I unequivocally and undeniably proclaim that I am a firebrand, and my level of advocacy over the years has proven it ten times over.

When you call on me – I answer. And even when I don’t have the answer, I’ll find someone who can get the answer, and I’ll remain in the picture until there is a resolution.

Referencing my role as a parent of a special needs child is important because I know what we must endure daily. And when I advocate on behalf of your children, I treat it as if I am advocating for my children.

The journey began in 2009 when a group of parents, with the help of the Paterson Education Fund, the Education Law Center in Newark, and several local activists, joined forces to demand Paterson public schools be appropriately funded according to the NJ Jersey Supreme Court 2008 SFRA decision.

New Jersey’s School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) was designed to drive more funding to districts with more significant needs but lower tax capacity.

Chris Christie, who was governor at the time, began streamlining funds across the state, which created an issue with equity. Our special needs population suffered from cutbacks in occupational, physical, and speech therapy. After filing a lawsuit, the district had to provide compensatory services to the students.

The advocacy didn’t end there. It continued till this very day. I am still the advocate who fights for our children and parents in the district. Making numerous trips to Trenton and DC to demand our legislators appropriately fund our schools is a constant with me.

And it goes beyond that and into the community as well. Regarding social issues and civil rights, I am on the front lines of the struggle. I ask that on Tuesday, November 8, 2022, I pray to be one of the names you select, “Corey L. Teague,” for re-election.

I want to thank my mentors’ councilwoman Vera Ames-garnes, councilwoman-at-large Dr. Lilisa Mimms, and my campaign manager Sebastian Mejia for their continued support and encouragement!