Mr. Leon Carelli

BOE Member

Phone: 609-859-2256 Ext.: 127

Having moved to Southampton in 2019, I have been proud to call it home and actively contribute to the community. As an advocate for New Jersey kids in foster care and a devoted resource parent, my commitment to the well-being of children is rooted in the belief that fostering a supportive environment is essential for the collective good of our children.

Beyond my advocacy work, I am a local small business owner at Carelli Computing and the Chief Technology Officer at Locks Law Firm, working at the intersection of technology and legal practice.

My involvement in community service extends to leadership roles such as the President of the Southampton Township PTA and the Education and Special Education Committee Chair for the NJPTA during the 2023-24 term. Additionally, I am a proud member of CAANJ (Children's Advocacy Association of New Jersey), furthering my commitment to children's well-being and advocacy, emphasizing values of diversity and inclusion. In addition to my commitment to education, equality, and data-driven results, I have been an advocate for the marriage equality movement. My partner and I were honored to be one of the first couples to wed in the state of Pennsylvania, marking a significant milestone in the fight for equal rights.

I firmly believe in the importance of depoliticizing education and promoting data-driven results. Education is too vital to be entangled in politics, and my dedication to evidence-based practices stems from the understanding that such approaches lead to better outcomes for students. With a global educational background, a blended family upbringing, a commitment to community service, equality, and data-driven results, I bring a unique and inclusive perspective to the Board of Education. Valuing diversity and diverse views, I aim to contribute to an educational environment that embraces different perspectives, promotes collaboration, and is guided by evidence-based practices. Together, let's build a community where trust, equity, result-driven decision-making, and a shared commitment to our children's future guide our educational endeavors.