The notifications arrive almost daily — updates on itinerary intent for Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill.

Sherrill, slated for a historic inauguration in Newark on Jan. 20, appears throughout New Jersey for swearing-in ceremonies featuring numerous Democratic political sweepstakes winners and headlines other positive activities.

For instance, Sherrill joined Gov. Phil Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy, and Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos on Monday for the Netflix Studios Fort Monmouth Closing Celebration Ceremony.

According to a press release, Netflix plans to invest $1B to transform the 292-acre former US Army installation into a premier East Coast production hub. The development will feature 12 cutting-edge soundstages totaling nearly 500,000 square feet, with additional areas dedicated to supporting film uses and community amenities.

Later, Gov.-elect Sherrill continued her statewide diner tour in Middlesex County, in this case the Metuchen Diner, to listen to New Jerseyans and discuss plans to lower costs and invest in communities.

Governor-elect notifications appear like this: Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill Public Schedule for Monday, January 12, 2026. These transmissions open here with Academy Award ‘envelope please’ anticipation, hoping that Ms. Sherrill will visit Pat’s Diner, The Skil-Lit Restaurant, or Sunrise Luncheonette in Trenton, although these small venues could not handle the entourage crush that accompanies the governor-elect.

Besides, while Sherrill addresses adult taxpayers, a better interaction seems more appropriate for Trenton parents and students. It’s not my place to extend an invitation, but a visit to Trenton Central High School sounds like a fantastic idea.

Here’s the $64,000 question, can Gov.-elect Sherrill or Lt. Gov. Dr. Dale Caldwell deliver the kind of conversation necessary for an urban audience? Trenton desperately needs a discussion on education and personal responsibility because chronic urban problems begin there. Actually, if a way existed for Gov.-elect Sherrill or any of her administration to address pre-K to third grade parents then start there.

Education remains an elixir and silver bullet to solve most urban problems. It’s extremely simple — Trenton must present an excellent school system chock full of successful curriculum initiatives and attractive extracurricular activities while families must take advantage of educational offerings.

Education, in myriad forms, wins. Period. Until leaders and parents accept education (including vocational learning) as be-all and end-all, Trenton will never experience positive change and revitalization.

L.A. Parker is a Trentonian columnist. Find him on Twitter @LAParker6 or email him at LAParker@Trentonian.com.