ENDORSING LEADERS FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Town Council Endorsements
Board of Education Endorsements

Town Council Endorsements

BCJAC fully support Mark and Karen for their unwavering commitment to the entire Teaneck community and their steadfast advocacy for the Jewish community. Their dedication, experience, and accomplishments are unparalleled, and we are thrilled to lend them our complete endorsement.

Mark “Mendy” Schwartz

Mark, known to many as “the pothole guy,” has become a fixture in Teaneck for his responsiveness to every issue, big or small. But his influence extends far beyond fixing potholes. Mark’s leadership and contributions have left a lasting impact on the township.

Notable Accomplishments
Town Involvements:

  • Served on the Budget Committee (8 years with no municipal tax increase)
  • Helped introduce responsible development projects across Teaneck
  • Supported affordable housing initiatives
  • Played a key role in introducing hotels to Teaneck, generating municipal revenue
  • Key contributor to the development of Votee Sportsplex and Teaneck Southern Field
  • Launched a road paving initiative for comprehensive street repairs in Teaneck
  • Advocates for maintaining essential police and fire staffing levels
  • Served as a member of the Teaneck Planning Board for 6 years

Community Engagement:

  • 22-year member of the Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance
  • 26-year Volunteer Firefighter for River Edge Squad
  • Founder of Shaare Tefillah
  • Active coach for Teaneck Junior Soccer League and TBO
  • Former board member (and VP) at Yavneh and TABC

Karen Orgen

A lifelong Teaneck resident, Karen has been a tireless advocate for all residents, with a special focus on the Jewish community. She has worked to ensure that our voices are represented, especially in times of protest or threat, and continues to lead vital projects that keep Teaneck a vibrant and safe place to live.

Notable Accomplishments
Governance and Safety:

  • Improved leaf pickup efficiency with a quadrant-based system
  • Led the search for the new Township Manager
  • Introduced an ordinance to regulate Airbnbs
  • Spearheaded early COVID-19 vaccinations at the Rodda Center for Teaneck residents
  • Passed an ordinance regulating vape shops to protect children

Capital Improvements:

  • Overseeing the library construction project
  • Maintained Hawthorn and Lancers fields to professional standards
  • Supported the Teaneck Southern Little League field turf project
  • Led updates to local playgrounds
  • Honored local veterans with banner tributes on Teaneck’s main streets

Community Engagement:

  • Organized the June 2021 Teaneck Unites for Israel
  • Parade and Concert in response to antisemitic incidents
  • Hosted Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations at Votee Park
  • Sportsplex in 2023 and 2024
  • Coordinated an October 2023 community event at
  • Votee Park with the RCBC
  • Past president of Shaare Tefillah
  • Lifetime member of Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps

Teaneck Board of Education

We are excited to support Jennifer and Kevin for their strong commitment to education, community, and the well-being of Teaneck’s students. Both bring unique experiences and leadership that align with BCJAC’s mission to foster positive, transparent, and inclusive growth in our schools.

Jennifer Levy

Jennifer Levy brings over two decades of experience as an educator, administrator, and attorney. With her diverse background, Jennifer is deeply committed to making positive, lasting changes in the Teaneck school system. She prioritizes kids, community, and transparency, ensuring that all voices are heard in decision-making processes, with clear and financially responsible actions that benefit students across the board.


Experience:

  • General Studies Principal
  • Teacher at Bergen County Academies and New
  • Milford High School
  • Practicing Attorney
  • Teaneck resident for over 20 years

Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree – Yeshiva University, Stern College
  • Master’s Degree – Columbia University, Teacher’s College
  • Law Degree – Fordham Law
  • Master’s in Educational Administration – Seton Hall University

Kevin Gibbs

Kevin Gibbs is a dedicated and experienced leader with a strong commitment to community service. His background in law enforcement, emergency medical services, and education has equipped him with the tools to foster a safe and nurturing learning environment for Teaneck’s students. Kevin’s leadership and communication skills make him an ideal candidate for the Board of Education.


Experience:

  • Police Officer with Teaneck Police Department
  • School Resource Officer
  • Juvenile Detective
  • Detective with Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office
  • Head Boys Varsity Basketball Coach
  • Varsity Assistant Coach at THS
  • Football Academic Advisor
  • Member of Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps

Certifications:

  • Emergency Medical Technician
  • CPR/AED Certified
  • HazMat Awareness
  • Incident Command Systems
  • Medic First Aid Instructor