Linden Board of Education Candidate Dr. Olivia Rodriguez-Calderon Profile

Dr. Olivia Rodriguez-Calderon is running for one of three open seats on the Linden Board of Education in the November 3 General Election. She is the first candidate profiled in TAPinto Linden’s ongoing series introducing voters to all candidates seeking the positions, which carry three-year terms.

Rodriguez-Calderon is a lifelong Linden resident and graduate of Linden Public Schools. She is raising her family in the community and has dedicated the past 25 years to public education. Her career began at Linden High School, where she served 13 years as a high school mathematics teacher. She has spent the past 12 years as an educational leader and administrator.

She currently serves as Principal of Hubbard Middle School in Plainfield. Under her leadership, the school exited state-designated status. Chronic absenteeism at Hubbard Middle School declined from 27 percent to 10.9 percent. Staff attendance increased from 82 percent to 94 percent. The school has made significant gains in student achievement and school culture, according to her profile.

In 2024, Rodriguez-Calderon earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Beyond her professional work, she has served as a PTO Treasurer, coached youth softball, and volunteered throughout the Linden community to support educational and recreational opportunities for children.

Rodriguez-Calderon emphasizes collaboration between families and schools. “As a school principal, I have learned that trust is built through visibility and responsiveness,” she said in her profile. “Families should never feel disconnected from the educational process. My goal is to help foster a culture where families feel welcomed, informed, and empowered to participate in their children’s education. When schools and communities work together, students benefit, and our district becomes stronger.”

On the challenges facing Linden Public Schools, she pointed to college and career readiness. “One of the most important issues facing Linden Public Schools today is ensuring that every student is prepared to succeed in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving world,” she said.

Attendance is another priority. “Students cannot benefit from excellent instruction if they are not in school consistently,” she noted.

She emphasized the role of teachers in student success. “Teachers are the foundation of student success, and we must ensure they have the resources, professional learning opportunities, and support necessary to help students thrive,” she said.

Rodriguez-Calderon closed her profile with a call to collective action: “Together, we can build upon Linden’s strengths and ensure every student is prepared for success both inside and outside the classroom.”

Voters will elect three candidates to the Linden Board of Education in the November 3 General Election. TAPinto Linden will publish additional candidate profiles in alphabetical order by last name over the coming days.

FAQ

Q: What is Dr. Rodriguez-Calderon’s educational background?
A: She is a lifelong Linden resident and graduate of Linden Public Schools. She earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2024. Her 25-year career in public education includes 13 years as a high school mathematics teacher at Linden High School and 12 years in educational leadership roles.

Q: What is her current job?
A: Dr. Rodriguez-Calderon currently serves as Principal of Hubbard Middle School in Plainfield. Under her leadership, the school exited state-designated status, reduced chronic absenteeism from 27 percent to 10.9 percent, and increased staff attendance from 82 percent to 94 percent.

Q: Why is she running for the Board of Education?
A: She stated: “I am running for the Linden Board of Education because I believe our students deserve leaders who bring both professional educational expertise and a deep personal commitment to the community.”

Q: What are her top priorities for Linden schools?
A: She identified three key issues: ensuring every student is prepared for college and career success in a competitive world; addressing chronic absenteeism so students can benefit from quality instruction; and providing teachers with resources and professional development opportunities to help students thrive.

Q: How many candidates are running for these Board of Education seats?
A: Three seats are available for three-year terms. TAPinto Linden is publishing profiles of all candidates in alphabetical order by last name. Voters will elect three candidates in the November 3 General Election.