Get To Know Morris Plains BOE Candidate Shawna Longo

MORRIS PLAINS, NJ—In less than a month, one of the most heated elections in our history will take place. Morris Plains' School Board race features three candidates vying for three, three-year terms. Get to know Shawna Longo, one of the candidates:

Bio: Shawna E. Longo is the General Music (Music Technology) teacher and Arts Integration Specialist at Durban Avenue School, Hopatcong, NJ. She also serves as the Arts Integration & STEAM Specialist for TMI Education; Coach for The Institute for Arts Integration & STEAM; and an Ambassador/Consultant for Music First, Hal Leonard, and Jamstik. With 19+ years of teaching experience, Mrs. Longo holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC; a Master of Public Administration in Arts Administration from Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ; Supervisor/Curriculum Director’s certification from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ; and certification as an Arts Integration Specialist (Level 1) as well as certification as an Arts Integration Leader (Level 2) from The Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM. She is a clinician and consultant for music education, music technology, social emotional learning, arts integration, and STEAM. She is also a recipient of the 2019 Mike Kovins Ti:ME Music Technology Teacher of the Year, 2019 New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education, 2019 Teach Rock Star Teacher Award from The Rock and Roll Forever Foundation, 2018 NJMEA Master Music Teacher Award, and 2016 Governor’s Educator of the Year for Hopatcong Middle School.

Why are you running for the board of education seat?

I am running for the board of election seat so that I may continue to serve the children of our community. Our children are one of our greatest resources. I feel it is important to instill a love of learning while educating the whole child, so that we may prepare them for success in their future.

What makes you qualified for the job?
With over 19 years experience as a teacher and administrator, I am well versed in the current trends as well as the challenges within the educational field. My expertise and experiences give me a deeper insight into the needs of our district as well as the opportunities available for our staff and students.

What is the most pressing issue facing the school district and what will you do about it?
Currently, as with all districts, the most pressing issue is dealing with the evolving landscape due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I will continue to keep the best interest of our children, staff, and community at the forefront as we navigate through this unprecedented time.

What are some other issues you want to see addressed?
I would like to see an increase in family and community involvement in our educational program through increased communication, events (as may occur safely via pandemic guidelines), and learning opportunities (virtual during current pandemic).

What do you hope to be your overall impact on the BOE if you are elected?
Overall, I hope to impact the school community in a positive manner. I would like to continue to be a voice for the community, students, and staff to ensure that everyone is heard and acknowledged. I would also like to continue working to increase our students' global awareness and social emotional wellbeing, which will serve them greatly throughout their education, personal lives, and eventually their professional careers.