Taking a Seat at the Table: Sean Redzio elected to Garfield Board of Education

For Sean Redzio, growing up in Garfield meant growing into Garfield. 

At just 19 years old, Redzio, a Political Science major, has already added an elected office to his resume. This spring, the Montclair State University student became the youngest member ever elected to the Garfield Board of Education, where he is focused on increasing transparency, strengthening community engagement and improving public education.

The decision to run came after he realized he could bring a fresh perspective to the Board as a recent graduate of Garfield Public Schools and a Political Science student at Montclair. “It was an idea that I had to accept myself,” he said. "It's not an easy thing to commit yourself to a campaign, but I decided I had to do it."

Making Changes 

Redzio built his campaign on fiscal transparency, accountability to constituents, and a commitment to stronger public schools. Redzio’s overarching goal as an elected member is to make the procedures and infrastructure around local government more transparent and accessible for community members, especially families and students who do not have time to read a thirty-page packet from BOE meetings. 

Redzio explained that simply distributing a dense and lengthy  packet is not enough to ensure true accessibility and understanding for all constituents. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and ensuring that decisions are made with feedback from the community. "We are not just passing policies in a vacuum,” he says. 

Coursework into Campaigns 

Redzio says Montclair's Political Science program gave him a strong foundation for public service. Lessons on policy, government and civic engagement often mirrored situations he encountered on the campaign trail and now experiences as a Board member.

"There were many times where I would be in the middle of class learning something and it would just click," he said. "I was able to see the real-time comparison."

He also points to courses taught by Professor Martina Santia, whose emphasis on working with real-world projects and clients helped him connect classroom concepts to the practical realities of campaigning and public service. "I'm still in college, so there's a lot more to come," Redzio said.

Gen-Z in the BOE

Redzio points out his age as a double-edged sword during his campaign and into the present. Redzio describes that his Gen-Z status places him into a unique position when working with colleagues that are his father’s age or grandfather’s age. “It isn’t an easy job to do but it certainly has its rewarding moments.” Redzio highlights the advantages of his perspective, such as his knowledge surrounding the high school building. He describes how he is asked for his input on heating, security, and how his knowledge of the issues and outlays of Garfield High School stay relevant in current matters. However, Redzio does acknowledge that his professionalism and conduct is scrutinized, as he is not necessarily expected to be in a BOE position at nineteen. Redzio admits, “There is certainly an advantage but at the same time you’re essentially navigating a new world by yourself.”

Finding the Balance 

Between organizing platform goals, fundraising, and knocking on voter’s doors, Redzio acknowledged that running his campaign while balancing schoolwork was difficult at times. Luckily, Redzio viewed the silver lining in his situation, “Given that I am a political science major, everything stays connected within my one field. I like politics and everything about politics, so in a sense my schoolwork helped as an escape during my campaign.”

Advice for Future Leaders

“Just start showing up," Redzio advises ​fellow students interested in getting involved in local politics.

Whether attending City Council or BOE meetings, reading agendas or reviewing public documents, he believes becoming informed is the first step toward making a difference. He also hopes to dispel the misconception that running for local office requires extensive experience or a lengthy resume.

“What you really need to know is just more about one specific problem than everyone else,” he said. “Show up to the meetings and get knowledgeable about the issues in your town.”

Looking towards the Future

Redzio was elected to a one-year term in April 2026 and will be eligible to seek a three-year term in April 2027. As he continues to balance college, public service and a new campaign, he hopes his experience encourages other young people to become involved in local government.

Story written by Maria Lachanaris, 2026 Fulcomer Intern