MIKE ASSAD
For Immediate Release | June 21, 2007
Contact: (609) 442-3862 | mike@mikeassad.com
ASSAD CALLS FOR PRESSLEY TO RESIGN
Mike Assad, the youngest elected official in Atlantic County, today called on embattled Pleasantville Board of Education President James Pressley to resign following his arrests on DUI and gun offenses.
"When I was elected to the school board, I assumed the duties of an important office that is far too often undermined," Assad said, "Even more important, I assumed the duty of role model for my community and became a personification of my district's schools"
"Those of us who are elected to office at a young age, particularly school board members, serve as important role models," Assad said. "It is disheartening to see Mr. Pressley continue to neglect that role. He has set a terrible example for young people."
Assad said that Pressley's actions have cast a negative light upon the Pleasantville Public Schools, and all young people who wish to serve their community. "Pressley can take no other action to redeem himself other than to resign," Assad said, adding "It's time for accountability, not apologies.
Assad, 19, was elected to the Absecon Board of Education on April 18, 2006. He said that he would not usually include himself in the affairs of another district, however he noted that Pleasantville is Absecon's sending district for high school students. "He's not only setting a bad example for the students of his district, but mine too," Assad said.
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