I’m Jennifer Rivera, and I’m incredibly honored, deeply passionate, and excited to announce my candidacy for the Lower Merion School District Board of Directors. Lower Merion isn’t just a place I live, it’s where my heart belongs. This community is woven into the fabric of who I am: my mother graduated from this district, my father has served it for decades, and my husband and I are raising our children in this beautiful district. Our daughter Bella is thriving in kindergarten at Cynwyd Elementary, and soon, our youngest, Joshua, will join her. This is home, and it’s a community that has given my family so much. Now, I’m ready to give back in the most meaningful way I know, by serving on the school board.

I’m not running just to secure a seat; I’m running because I believe in a vision of education that leaves no one behind. I believe our children deserve a future that empowers them to thrive, no matter their background or circumstances. We have an opportunity to do better, be better, and create a school district where inclusivity isn’t a buzzword but a lived reality every single day. Now more than ever, we need action, not just make promises, and I am ready to roll up my sleeves and make a difference for every student.

What sets me apart is my unwavering, deep-rooted commitment to every child in this district, no exceptions. This isn’t about a political career; it’s about building a future of opportunity where every student has access to the tools and support every student needs to succeed. It’s about creating a school environment where all children feel safe, valued, and heard. And I am committed to making sure our district continues its legacy of excellence by prioritizing equity and excellence for ALL students, regardless of race, gender, religion, socio-economic status, or ability.

With over 20 years of experience, I excel in supporting financial oversight and strategic planning. I have supported Finance, Audit, and Investment Committees, managing a $100M+ budget to ensure efficiency. I also organized annual audits with Grant Thornton, ensuring compliance, transparency, and fostering meaningful discussions for informed decision-making.

My commitment to Lower Merion extends beyond my professional qualifications. I volunteer at Cynwyd Elementary, support the Home and School Association, and advocate for initiatives that benefit all students. As a mentor to middle and high school students in the district, I am also proud to share that the BuildOn Service Club at Lower Merion High School partners with families in need through my church’s food pantry. My dedication to both fiscal responsibility and community service uniquely positions me as an ideal candidate for the School Board.

Now more than ever, our community is facing challenges that require unity and leadership. It’s imperative that we stand together against hate in all its forms. But it’s just as important that we recognize the unique ways trauma affects each of us. Rather than allowing these challenges to divide us, we must come together, heal together, and support one another. Our schools should be sanctuaries of learning where every student feels seen, heard, and respected.

This is our moment for change, for unity, for leadership the brings us together. We need a school board that values open dialogue and effective collaboration, not just within our schools, but between the board and the wider community. The decisions we make affect every student, every family, and every taxpayer in this district. And we need leadership that will carry that responsibility with integrity, vision, and dedication.

My vision for our schools is simple: Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. That means providing an education that is academically rigorous while also fostering emotional and social growth. It means empowering our teachers with the resources they need to succeed. It means fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, and transparency between families, educators, and the community. And most importantly, it means creating a future where every child, regardless of race, gender, background, or ability, has the opportunity to succeed.

Together, we can build on the strong foundation of excellence that defines the Lower Merion School District. But to do that, I need your help. I need your trust. I need your support. I’m here to listen, to lead, and to work with all of you to create a brighter future for our schools, our children, and our community.

Thank you for believing in me. Let’s continue this journey together, stronger, united, and committed to the success of every student. Together, we can make a lasting difference. Let’s make it happen!

Thank you.