Meet Jen Ashkar

Local Resident

Holmdel mom of three daughters attending Holmdel High School and Indian Hill.

Grew up in Middletown and Holmdel resident for 17 years.

Education & Athletics

Studied Environmental Geoscience and Conservation Biology at Boston College and Columbia University. Former collegiate rower.

Professional Background

Over 15 years of experience in environmental education, conservation, public outreach, and outdoor leadership; connecting people with science and the natural world through education and youth programs.

Community Service

Board member of Citizens for Informed Land Use (CILU) for over five years. Member of the Holmdel Township Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee for two years. Longtime advocate for open space preservation, civic engagement, and building community trust through transparency.

Why I’m Running for Holmdel Board of Education

Put Student Learning First

Advocate for academic policies that prioritize student learning and mental health over high‑stakes assessment and grading. Key priorities include:

• More balanced assessment weighting

• Returning tests across all grades with timely feedback

• Reducing summer and waiver assignments while improving preparation for AP and final exams

• Establishing clear guidelines that limit the use of AI for grading student writing

Expand Opportunity for Every Student

Ensure all students have access to rigorous coursework that prepares them for college, careers, and beyond. This includes expanding access to foundational classes like Algebra I, which opens pathways to advanced math, AP courses, and college readiness by 12th grade.

Lead with Fiscal Responsibility

Address the district’s $7 million budget deficit and major capital decisions, including a potential referendum to replace aging infrastructure. Focus areas include:

• Careful evaluation of every investment

• Asking tough, informed questions

• Protecting educational programs, small class sizes, and student opportunities

Strengthen Student Support Services

Support policies that clearly define roles within the high school guidance department to deliver specialized support tailored to student needs. Key roles include:

• Mental Health Counselors: Dedicated exclusively to supporting students’ emotional well‑being

• College Counselors: Focused on expert guidance for college planning, applications, financial aid, and career pathways