An Endorsement From Siria Rivera

Siria Rivera M.Ed.

Collingswood resident and parent of a high schooler

Former BOE member

As a former Collingswood Board of Education member, a West Collingswood parent, and the CEO of a nonprofit in North Philadelphia, I strongly support the All In for Collingswood plan, and I encourage everyone to vote YES on September 17th. This is an essential step toward providing our children with the safe, modern learning environments they need to thrive and succeed in today’s world.

This plan is more than just a list of construction projects; it represents a crucial investment in our children’s education and the future of our community. The creation of a new Upper Elementary School and the modernization of existing facilities are not just about adding space—they’re about fostering environments where every student can thrive. The plan ensures that, regardless of background or ability, all students have the opportunity to learn in a setting that meets their needs.

One of the most significant benefits of this plan is how it will help our schools better reflect the diversity of our town. Currently, two elementary schools, just a short distance apart, have a noticeable disparity in student demographics. By supporting this referendum, we can create more balanced and inclusive schools that truly represent the diverse fabric of our community, promoting a culture of understanding and respect long before students reach middle school.

Moreover, the current setup of so many small elementary schools limits our ability to equitably distribute resources. As someone familiar with the complexities of school administration, I know that our students deserve better access to the educational tools they need, especially those learning English or with learning differences. This plan addresses these inequities by ensuring that resources are more evenly spread across the district, giving every child a fair chance to succeed.

My son is now 17 years old, but we moved “across town” when he was in elementary school, and I made the decision to continue to send him to Garfield Elementary School from West Collingswood. I made this choice, despite the inconvenience, because I believed that consistency in his learning experience was what was best for him. Like many parents, I made this choice because I believe that what’s best for our children may not always be the most convenient or the easiest, but it is certainly non-negotiable. This plan will provide the best possible learning environment for all students, and as parents and a community we should come together to support each other and solve any logistical challenges.

In my professional experience in North Philadelphia, I’ve seen the dire consequences of delaying necessary facility improvements—when aging school buildings suddenly fail, abrupt school closures disrupt education and community stability. This referendum allows us to be proactive, addressing potential issues in the present, to prevent such disruptions in the future.

Supporting this referendum is not just about upgrading buildings; it’s about investing in our children’s future and the future of Collingswood. I urge my fellow residents to vote YES on September 17th, ensuring that our schools continue to provide the best possible learning environment for many years to come.