I am running for a seat on the board of education of the South Country School District for one reason, and one reason only — to help improve the quality of the education we provide all our children.
Unfortunately, the current board has been reactive rather than proactive on the educational issues facing the district. Politics, individual agendas, and special interests have dominated the board for far too long. As a member of this board of education, I promise to have only one special interest — the young people of this community.
My husband and I have lived in this community for nearly 20 years. We have two daughters — one at Verne W. Critz and another at Bellport Middle School. We share the concern that all the children in our community are provided the education they need to succeed.
As a secondary school educator for 14 years in a neighboring school district, I understand the classroom from the inside out. As a former board member and vice president of the Boys & Girls Club of the Bellport Area, I understand the diverse needs of our community. As a current executive board member of the Suffolk Community Council — an umbrella advocacy organization for the region's not-for-profits — I know how to access outside resources for the benefit of our community.
I've been proud to serve as a South Country PTA leader. I currently serve as vice president of the Verne W. Critz PTA as well as being an active Bellport Middles School PTA member. As Legislative Chair of the South Country PTA Council, I've organized several successful advocacy trips to Albany where students, faculty, and parents have had the opportunity to meet with our state government leaders and address the issues that affect our community.
As the owner of a government and public relations firm for the past eight years, I keenly understand the value of a dollar. I've had to develop budgets, pay overhead, and make payroll. I'll bring that private sector sensibility to the board.
I appreciate the consideration of your vote, and I urge you to support the budget on election day, Tuesday, May 19. Polls are open from 7am - 9pm at the Bellport Middle School.
Sincerely,
