001Hello everyone. Welcome this evening to the board of education candidate trustee candidate forum. Uh I'm happy to see everyone here. I'm hoping that there are a lot of people tuning in at home. This is a very important evening as we know our candidates. I want to thank all three of you for running for these two important positions. It's a testament uh to this community that we have people like you who want to step up and take on these really important roles. Um the way that the the forum is set up is that we crowdsourced um questions in advance from the community so that they had a chance to let the candidates know what they're interested in hearing tonight so that we can get to know all three of you a little better. Um the there
002won't be any time for uh for questions from the audience tonight. there will all be the questions that the um that we have confidentially sent over to the League of Women Voters. They went to a confidential inbox. Um and tonight, as as you know, uh this this will be recorded so that those who could not either be here in person or watch on online um will still be able to watch the recording afterwards. So, I encourage everyone who is here or who is uh watching at home to please encourage your neighbors and your friends to tune in. Um it's very important uh this election um it determines the future of our of our school community. So um I want to tell everybody to please make sure your calendar is marked for May 20th for the
003actual election and the budget vote. Um and with that I want to just quickly thank Darren Miller for being here to record the session and live stream it. I want to thank Robin Dunn for also helping to create uh to to put this event together and leave the TV the secretary of PCA um who is our timekeeper this evening. Um and the last thing I want to say is I just want to uh introduce our moderator from the League of Women Voters, John Hel. Good evening everyone. Okay. So, this uh candidate forum features the candidates for Tuck Board of Education. We have three candidates running for two seats. The order of speaking was done by lottery prior to the forum. Each candidate has one minute to make an opening statement followed by questions for the
004candidates and a one minute closing statement. The questions uh as said were solicited from the community. Each question you have one and a half minutes to respond during the Each panel will have two 30 second rebuttals to be used during the question period only. Cannot use a rebuttal during opening and closing statements. Our time keeper will hold up a warning sign when there is 30 seconds of time remaining and a stop sign when it's time to stop. Silence your cell phones. Okay. Uh, no applause during the forum. Wait till the end. Okay. We don't want to interrupt any of the candidates when they're speaking. Uh, after the forum, there'll be time to chat with your candidates. Uh, they all agree to hang around for a little bit. Uh, there's no videotaping of the event. We're
005going to uh have it recorded here live stream. It's going to be on Verizon channel 27, Optimum channel 77 and on the TU channel. Okay. If you can't hear any of the candidates, raise your hand and I'll tell them to speak up. Okay. So, the three candidates are Lewis Campa, Joel Abrams, and Seth Mer. Okay. Are you ready for the first uh opening statement? You get the first statement. Uh Louis, good evening to the women voters and my fellow members of the Toro school district. My name is Lewis Campana and I'm honored to be here this evening running for the board of education. I'm a lifelong Toro resident, part of the sixth generation legacy that began here back in 1925. I'm a proud graduate of schools where I learned the values of teamwork, leadership, and
006community pride. I also brought back the first varsity baseball state championship as a captain back in 2002. My wife Alexander is a dedicated art teacher and our two children in fifth grade and Matthew, a first grader in the special needs program are thriving thanks to the support of our district's incredible educators. Our family has students enrolled in Tugo schools for 37 consecutive years with another 20 ahead. Professionally, I'm a licensed architect with 25 years of experience and a local business owner with a license in New York, Connecticut. I served on the East Planning Board to help uphold responsible development, safeguard public health. Okay, that's okay. Thank you very much. So, uh, Joel, you're ready. Yes. Good evening. My name is Joel Abrams and I'm honored to be here tonight. for hosting this. I'm a proud
0071966 graduate of Taco High School. My wife Alexia, our son Christopher, and I have long home. For 16 years, I worked as a dedicated school safety professional to ensure the safety of our students and staff and currently serve on our building safety committee. As CSA union president, I've represented our staff in negotiations with multiple boards of education and speaking extensive experience in educational leadership, law and policy. I've been deeply involved in our schools as a senior class advisor, supporter of role events, and advocate for students and families. I bring not only commitment but also a deep historical knowledge of our district, which I'm eager to use to help support our new administrators. Every decision I make driven by what's best for our students future. Thank you. Okay. Thank you very much. Uh Mr. Seth, you
008have one minute. Hi, my name is Seth Mir and I'm running for the board to continue the progress we've seen in our district. Next year is an incredibly important one for Tuck Schools leadership transitions and drafting of our next strategic plan. And I believe that my experience uniquely positions me to provide the stability and consensus building required to move our district forward. At my core, I'm an educator and bring more than two decades of experience in education. I began my career as a teacher and if elected, I'd be the only person serving on the board with classroom teaching experience, a critical expected given the priorities ahead. Since then, I've held a series of senior leadership roles at multi-million dollar nonprofits overseeing finance, HR, and risk management. And I've been involved in our district as a
009parent to two students serving on the district's finance committee for the past three years and advocating for improvements to the education. If elected, I prioritized three things. Number one, stability in our district leadership. Number two, student retention with a focus particularly on our middle schools. and number three meeting the needs of all learners including students in our special education. Okay, thank you very much. Okay, so the first question is going to go to you uh Joel uh and the same question is for everyone. Okay, why do you want to run for the board of education and what unique skills do you have to qualify for a board seat? I'm running for the school board because I care a few things about our students, schools, and community. I know I can make a real impact with
010over 15 years of hands-on experience schools. As a security officer, CSA president, senior class advisor, safety member, I understand what supports success. I'm also proud and lifelong res. So I know the values priorities of the community firstand I'm especially passionate about ensuring a full continuum of special education services expanding language offerings and securing occasion data guide programs without clear evidence. I offer unique combination of insight connection and perspective balanced voice every thank you question. Sure. Why do you want to run for the board of education and what unique skills do you have to qualify for a board seat? Um so as I said in my introduction um at my core I am an educator and and my entire career has been animated by what do we do to make sure that all students have rigorous
011academic environments that support their academic growth, their social emotional growth. Um and I've dedicated my entire career to making sure that schools are that type of environment. And so at its core, what animates me is students and families of this district and making sure that we continue to build on progress that we've made. Um, in particular, a couple things that I would highlight that I think I would bring to this role. First, as I said, my depth of experience in education and my experience as a teacher. Um so really understanding how do the decisions that the board make impact teachers, students um and all the families in our districts and having in the classroom and seeing it firsthand. Um but it's not only that I bring um a depth of finance, HR, and risk management
012experience. So the board is focused on what's best for students. The board is also focused on what's best for taxpayers and how do we make decisions that are in the best interest of everybody living. Okay. Thank you, Louis. As a licensed architect running my own firm, I bring a strong foundation in project management, budgeting, strategic planning, and consensus building. All directly translate with the responsibilities of the board of education. Managing uh multi-million dollar projects has trained me to balance ambitious goals with financial discipline skill that skill that's critical when overseeing the school's budget and setting policies that demonstrate both students and taxpayers through my services on the coco facilities committee planning board and food president of the jury tenants corporation I've worked collaboratively with diverse stakeholders navigating complex decisions that impact the public these experiences
013taught me how to make thoughtful investments weigh longterm impacts and prioritize transparency and accountability. Most importantly, those roles have reinforced the philosophy of leadership rooted in listening first, seeking common ground, and staying focused on outcomes that strengthen the community. I'm committed to bringing those same skills to the board to help guide policy, facilities planning, and financial stewardship in a way that supports every school community member. more focus on special needs, revamping the internship program for our juniors and seniors, safety and security facilities and I want to encourage the return of subject to support our special education program. Okay, thank you very much. Okay, so this question starts with you then to Lewis and then to Joel. What do you think are Taho's biggest strengths as a school district? Um, so first and foremost, I think
014that one of the things that the board and this district has really prioritized and that we should feel really proud of are improvements that we've made in literacy programming and really continuing to build off the top. Um, I think that the board and the district have really focused on curriculum and instruction creating a real continuum of Um I think that what we've seen in codle is real improvements specifically in literacy foundations etc. Um and so I think that what I'm looking to see us um do is to extend that into the middle school and continue to build on progress we made at model. Um, I also think that one of the things that our district really proud of is that our board um and administrators have prioritized the right balance between investing in our facilities
015and in what we need long term in this district with also making decisions that are financially responsible. And so I think the work that the board has done with a couple of these capital improvement program, you know, cafeteria, the improvements are really important and I think it's important to kind of speed up that through um the middle school high school auditorium and college okay thank you uh Lewis um what do you think are Taho's biggest strength of the school district so I value the board's commitment to investing in facilities while maintaining fiscal responsibility projects like school caf renovation show how strategic in and enhance the student experience. I also appreciate the recent focus on academic achievement and look forward to building on that momentum. Sports program is also uh it's been an incredible country these
016past few years and has grown exponentially. One more recent policy making is the new cell phone policy. Uh I think that was a strong implementation by the board and this is going to be instrumental for our program uh and will strengthen classroom interaction and learning across the board. I think um I think also you know our greatest strength uh is our close-knit community uh students, teachers, administrators and families who truly care about one another. This is why I returned to PGO after college and my wife and I have decided to raise our family here. If we harness the pride and continue adapting thoughtfully, there's nothing we can accomplish together as a community. Thank you. Okay. Thank you. Uh now we're going back to the top. Just make sure you speak up loudly. Okay. So, uh
017project. Okay. Lewis, this question starts with you. What? Oh, I'm sorry, Joel. I had one job. Yeah, sure. What do you think are Taho's biggest strengths as a school district? I'm gonna really need a focus of our special education services which ensuring students get to support academic journeys programs. Currently our professional development is to some extent. I think every wave should be effectively also we need to be looking at early screening for intervention which we have not done before. dedicated specialist K 12 to five literacy strong literacy helps the overload of referrals we often see in middle high school the effort of the college readiness extending bot in the CT programs especially students pursuing trades pathway I currently offer groceries only have two states available and that's not up. Also want to see an increase
018in our students students more access to real world experiences and for the graduation. Okay, thank you very much. Now we're back to the top. Okay, so Liz, this one's for you. Uh what do you think are tako what do you think are tako's biggest areas for improvement so I think um board of education plays a critical role in setting direction for our schools and what we've been seeing recently is a a turnover which we find ourselves in a very unique situation right now with with the number of administrators uh leaving it. Um you know this uh this turnover it can extend itself into the faculty as well as for students and student. So I think the board does a lot well, but I see opportunities for even greater collaboration and communication, especially between trustees, administration,
019and staff. I work to strengthen those bridges by encouraging more transparent dialogue, listening carefully to concerns, and making sure that community input translates into action at the board table. I also believe that retention of our administration staff have become an immediate. I believe that Communication can boost morale and enhance teacher and retention. Teachers also need to be heard and recognized for their experts. Even periodical future administrative board open forms can be positive way for our teachers to express themselves with full transparency. Okay. Thank you Joel. Yes. As a board member, I believe we need to focus more strengthening our relationship with our administrative team. It's essential that we create opportunities for communication with our administrators not just through one voice for an individual but across the board. This will help foster a more collaborative and
020supportive environment. this coming year providing the support necessary to help our new administrators accolate to the community. And I believe having three alumni on the board all with the district could be a major asset to offering guidance to these leaders. I also believe some of the administrators are overworked and undertaken and descriptions are far beyond expected in our typical other districts. I believe the restructuring of the middle high school few years ago was a miss. We need to reevaluate how we structure our administrative team to ensure more support for our buildings especially at the middle high school. Our goal should be to create an environment that attracts and retains talent while ensuring that we meet our students, parents, and teachers effectively. Okay. Thank you. Um Seth, thanks so much. I certainly agree with both both
021my fellow candidates that really prioritizing as I said in my opening statement stability and senior leadership for our district is a priority. Um I would also say in terms of particular opportunities for improvement first I would agree I think that our board has done a fantastic job um and I think they really should be commended for the work that they've done over the past five to seven years really continuing to build on on improvements. Um, a couple things that jump out to me as opportunities where we can continue to build on progress that's been made. Um, first, as I mentioned, um, continuing to strengthen um, our middle school experience and the transition from toddle to middle school and we've seen a lot of progress, as I said, in literacy and toddle and I think we
022have work to do to continue expanding that to our middle school. um particularly for students who are coming in behind grade level and how are we making sure that we're testing them up as quickly as possible. Second, I think we always have to continue focused on meeting the unique learning needs of all students. Um and so what are we doing to really take work around UTL that is started and continuing to have that be sort of the animated feature of how we think about um curriculum and instruction and professional learning. Third, I think um math is an area where we can continue to do more in both elementary and middle school. And then finally, I think there's work we can do around internship for our seniors um as well as exposure to alternatives to college
023for our students um and really strengthening and making that a more rigorous program. Okay, thank you very much. Okay, Joe, this one starts with you. The district needs to create to create a new strategic plan next year. What would your priorities be for that plan? Are the district's current strategic plan 20 to 204 was built on four pillars, social emotional learning, diversity learners, contemporary teaching, learning, professional learning. These have served us well. We know we're a year beyond timeline. First, the professional development. Our staff must be lifelong learners with regular opportunities to grow, lead, and receive training on how to engage all types of learners. Second, we moderized technology. 2013, our district received a pioneer award for its 101, but that was 12 years ago. Rapid change in AI and digital learning. It's time to
024ask what's next. We must strengthen the focus on college and career readiness. That means expanding CT opportunities, post programs, and our senior internship. So all students have access to real world experiences. And finally, we must build on this strong foundation we started continuing to make student wellbeing and social emotional development a districtwide priority. Our next strategic reflect where we are today and we want to go through a partnership with our community members, parents, teachers and staff and student. Thank you. Thank you very much. Okay, Seth. Uh so first I want to start by saying I've already started this work in a number of learning conversations I've had in the runup um as part of this campaign. I've spoken with a number of administrators and also a number of parents in the district to start to
025get a sense of of what they think is needed and how that might inform the next strategic plan. And I say that because I think it's really important to come with um vision and perspectives, but this has to be a collaborative effort where we really engage the whole community and listen to all members of our community. Um in terms of things that I think are really important pillars for us as we continue moving forward, first um rigor and relationships. I think it's incredibly important that um relationships with students are deep. We're a small district, our teachers, our staff know our students and that's so important and it's critical um as part of really building rigor making sure that we have academically challenging environments for all students. Um so rigor and relationships number one second support
026for teachers and staff. Um I think professional learning, professional development continues to be important. Um, and it's something that we really need to prioritize making sure we support our teachers going forward. Third, engaging learning environments. So, how do we make sure we have the most innovative teaching practices, increased extracurriculars, clubs, electives? Um, and then finally, fiscal responsibility has to oversee all of this. We have to say, what are our strategic priorities? How do we have a budget that aligns to those priorities? Um, and I've led strategic planning processes at other organizations, and so I'd be thrilled for the opportunity to Okay, thank you very much. And look, the district's current strategic plan adopted 2021 built around four pillars as Joel mentioned. I won't mention it again. Um, I fully support that this foundation and we
027should certainly look at building on it. First, we should assess the data from our SCL initiatives to understand their impact and gaps we we can make targeted improvements as we prepare students for success. I believe it's time to add a fifth pillar uh college readiness and world exper real world experiences. This means increasing college exposure by inviting admissions teams into our schools much like east offering semester college readiness workshops for juniors and seniors and revamping our senior leadership program. I also believe we must approach technology as an ethical that includes ongoing professional learning for our teachers, upgrading our infrastructure to support the Chromebook initiative and and growing technologies and responsibly integrating AI into classrooms with expert guidance. Lastly, we must continue to enhance professional learning, not just for teachers, but for all administration and staff.
028that includes promoting universal special needs training districtwide and increasing access to professional development opportunities across the board. So uh in programs uh revamping the internship program enhanced guidance for college and career readiness clubs extracurricular and mentioned we have to do this. Okay thank you very much. Okay with was reset. How do you feel about the forthcoming New York State ban on cell phones in schools and why do you think it is necessary or why not? Uh this is obviously an important topic. I I battled it quite a bit when I was a teacher in my in my classroom. I was constantly fighting for attention with my students um who were pulling a cell phone out. Um I'm going to name this is a really complex issue with a bunch of different layers. So first there's
029for parents who want to make sure that they can be in touch with their students, right? How do we do this in a responsible way where for students for parents who still need to get in touch with their students throughout the day um that they can do it. Um second, I think it's really important um that we also just make sure students are here to make the most of time that they are in schools and that when they're in classrooms what they what they and their teachers are focused on is um academic learning um and building relationship with teachers with staff and students. Um, and so I think it's really important that that we strike the right balance both as a district and as a community in teaching our students the right balance around responsible
030teachers of technology. And so I think that at a high level the idea behind how do we make sure that that students are in classrooms and focused on learning in the things that matter most is important. And I think in the details we really need to work out how do we do that in a way that also values and honors. Okay. Thank you very much. Dr. And here in TCO it has potential to greatly benefit our students. uh studies show that cell phones in class with attention and academic performance. Removing that constant distraction helps students engage more deeply with their teachers, classmates and the learning process. But safety must remain the top priority. That's why I will support a balanced implementation. Phones will be stored in conspicuous but accessible location in each classroom. distance. They
031are out of reach during instruction but quickly available in case of emergency whether it's a lockdown evacuation or family issue. Uh ultimately this policy supports a stronger academic outcomes, a better peer interaction and safer more structured learning environments all while maintaining preparedness in the event emergency kind of thoughtful balance that helps our schools succeed both academically and it will support our Okay. Uh Joel, yes 526, smartones, internet devices during the entire school day, including class, lunchions are in place for students requiring devices as outlined in realized education program or translation purp schools are tasked with developing their own plans for ensuring parents can contact their children during the day. While I understand the impact behind this ban, I believe student safety must come first at the high school and up grade levels. We must find
032practical ways for students to have phones for access to emergencies. This will include backpacks or accessible notes during instruction. But before making any direct level decisions, I support surveying parents to better understand the expectation during emergencies, the best ways to balance accessibility and safety and concerns about communication with their children during the school day. ensuring transparency and collaboration with families help us build a cultural student centered policy. I also know that many teachers currently have in each of their classrooms. Okay, thank you very much. Okay, Lewis, this one is for you. How does the school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to manage the tax burden on local homeowners? So, this year's proposed school district budget, as many you may know, is $44 million, which is a 5.33% increase
033from uh from last year. The tax levy stands at 32.6 uh with a tax increase for the district at 3.57 which remains within the state manual tax cap. Uh like most uh districts relies heavily on uh local tax revenue which is 74% of our uh revenue um in our budget. So fiscal responsibility is of most importance. The delta between the the initial and final includes key investments such as high reading interventionist for elementary school with only 60% of students reading at grade level. Uh this is not just a smart investment assessment. Other highlights include expanding extracurricular increasing security surveillance and launching a civics partnership to shape future leaders. As a board member, I believe our duty is uh to be responsible towards balancing student needs with financial realities of seniors and residents without children. Moving
034forward, we should anticipate needs earlier in the budget cycle. That means beginning conversations with teachers and staff at the planning stages to see what they need to effectively run their classrooms and to avoid overspending later. and also support exploring a dedicated athletics department especially as programs grow and require expanded travel. And finally, I'd advocate for consultants to evaluate a 9 period bell schedule responsible integration and space. Thank you. Uh Joel, I fully support this year's proposed million budget. The board strategic choice to go near the tax a decision I agree with has allowed us to add a much needed meeting. As a board member, I take fiscal responsibility seriously. We represent all of our residents, families, children, future district families, and longtime residents. The veterans taxion approved this year is a great example of supporting
035those who remain in our our community going after their children graduate. Investing in our schools benefits everybody. Strong school strengthen our community protect property value. This year's budget includes a new AP cyber security course offerings at K security upgrades including a fulltime role and also came in addition teacher a new strength and conditioning coach to support our growing athletic program. Looking ahead, I'm still concerned that we haven't expanded most. Lastly, I would like to see our world language program expanded into the sixth grade and the elementary school. Okay. Thank you very much, Seth. Yes, I agree with both Le and Joel. I'm fully in support of this year's budget. I think it does exactly what we're talking about, which is balancing uh strategic priorities with academic needs. It does those two things. And so the
036first thing that I think when you're thinking about how to do that juggle is you need a clear strategic plan. And so that's what our board has done um and that's what we're going to be charged with doing with community input again next year. And then we are a small district so we don't have unlimited resources and we have to make choices and tradeoffs. And so you really have to align the budget to those strategic priorities. And again, it's like a reading interventionist at prioritizing safety and security. I think the board has done that. Our budget does that. Um and as you align the budget to those priorities, we really need to continue to communicate with the community transparently about it. And so in serving on the finance committee, I know how much work has
037been done this year to really continue to improve how we transparently commun about what's in the budget. Um, it's on the website. There is a detailed budget book that goes line by line through revenue and expense section saying what's in here, why did it go up or down, and how can you make sense of this year's budget. Um, I think there's work we can do to continue to get the word out there. Uh, the last thing I'll say is I think that this district has really thoughtfully thought about building reserves um and taking existing funds to support future needs. And so, for instance, the in this year's budget. I think Okay, thank you very much. Okay, we're going to start this one with you, Joel. Uh, what is your long-term vision for enhancing our school's
038infrastructure? Over the past few years, our district has has made significant progress in improving our facilities, including expanding classroom space in upgrad cafeteria expansion, library renovations, and new vest. These are all critical investments for the future of our schools. And while every upgrade comes with a cost and necessary to provide the best outcomes and experience for our students. That said, it's time to start planning for the future, especially in support of music, arts, and athletic programs. At the Mill High School, we're testing of acoustic upgrades restoring our historic auditorium to its original size. This would be a major benefit to our town music. Additionally, our donations are for a modern face. The spaces are highly visual to both school and the wide community and they should reflect the pride and excellence of our programs we
039run. These aren't overnight projects. Planning, budgeting, space, budgeting and prioritizing, we can ensure our facilities enhance the student experience right. Lastly, we should look at improving the exterior of our schools with landscaping and other interest matters and not just for student morale but also home value in our community. Okay. Thank you very much. Um so I agreed. I think that that some of the decisions that have been made in the past have have really gone a long way um to improving what are aging facilities. Um I think in particular um some work around facilities upgrades through bond offerings. So, codle cafeteria renovation, the curve field, upgrading fire alarm system, uh wireless access point improvements, and then also work uh that's in this year's budget around upgrading security um here in the middle and high school.
040Um, in talking to Bates Park Sparks, our business manager, my understanding is there's a 2008 bond that in a couple years is going to come off the books, the debt service cost for that, which I think debt service makes up six to 7% of our budget annually this year. And so I think that uh anybody who steps onto the board is going to have some really important conversations to be a part of around how do we strike the balance that we were just talking about between needed upgrades and giving some relief to taxpayers. And so I think it's something that we'll all have to continue to study, but that's the balance that we have to make. Um, but I agree with what Joel said in that I think some particular places where there are opportunities
041for improvement, the middle and high school auditorium, we have an amazing theater program, we should have an equally amazing auditorium and the codle gym which is still fairly small and okay, thank you. Uh Louis as a member of the uh facilities committee and an architect by profession I bring both firsthand experience and technical insight to the district's infrastructure plan. I remember how dark and uninspiring the old cafeteria was while having lunch with friends back in the 90s. I was uh fortunate to contribute to its renovation and the use of natural daylighting has transformed it into a vibrant studentfriendly space that promotes wellness and spirit. Several important projects uh are already underway including tunnel piping as best pavement this will occur as school lets out for the summer. Um campuswide camera installations enhanced security going to
042be rebidding for the middle and high school HBAC upgrade and necessary park repairs and bathroom and elevator repairs at school. There's much more to do. Front steps and patios at middle school and high school need replacement. Uh cap era repairs are ongoing due to water damage and roof and drainage improvements are essential. Looking ahead, I'll be actively involved in developing the district's next 5 to 10 year capital plan that includes revamping our T closets to support new systems, consulting uh on space utilization to maximize our current footprint with fresh and overgrown landscaping which has been there since I've been here and uh restoring the historic high school auditorium, ensuring our arts program have a stage worthy their excellence. We must also retrofit our elementary school gym with operable windows for proper ventilation. This is a
043serious mistake. My goal is to ensure every facility project supports the health, safety, and success of our students. Okay. Thank you, Louis. Thank you. Okay, we go on this one. Confidentiality is probably one of the most important skills needed to be on the board. How will you ensure confidential matters, especially those involving students, staff or sensitive school issues, are handled appropriately and respectively as a board member? Great question. Um, throughout my career, that's what I've dealt with. Um when I started my time in my classroom, uh we got a lot of training about student confidential data, what can be shared, what needs to be kept securely. Um so just from a student and family perspective, obviously that's really important given the the years that I have spent overseeing HR at multiple organizations. Um I understand
044how paramount confidentiality is. I have deep experience balancing arent communication with the need for confidentiality um to maintain the the dignity and the the honesty of processes. And so I think it is obviously a really important thing that all board members um need to do. It's something that I have deep experience in from my professional career as an HR professional. Um and I think in particular it's really important that you know when the goes into executive session. Um, those are things that stay in executive session. There's a reason that executive sessions exist and that as a board we figure out how to communicate with a united front um what we can um based on the balance between transparency and confidentiality and respect for everybody involved. Okay. Thank you very much. Uh Lewis, you repeat the
045question. Sure. Confidentiality is probably one of the most important skills needed to be on the board. How will you ensure confidential matters, especially those involving students, staff or sensitive school issues, are handled appropriately and respect respectfully as a board member. So, as an architect, I I have a myriad of clients and confidentiality is something that um is with me throughout my has been with me throughout my career. um you know and I handle all uh clients in this matter and this also must be applied to our district's families and our students in terms of confidentiality and u and the board. I I think it's extremely important that whatever is discussed behind, you know, off the record behind the scenes uh must stay that way until it's ready to come out in either a policy uh
046or in some other matter. But yes, confidentiality is topnot what we need to keep in mind as Okay, thank you Joel. Sure. I believe Transparenc Transparency is essential in building trust between the school district and our community. I want to recognize the progress that made especially in recent years financial reporting creation of the budget that presentation of our business. These are important steps. I also appreciate the growing use of surveys survey and the superintendent survey more valuable insight like this survey directly from our teachers employees that said there are areas where we can and must do better specific documents decisions especially with financial impact are not always posted docs out of 13 that I've identified over the past two years only five were attached publicly not taxpayers shouldn't have to email district clerk to find
047out how public funds are being used. Finally, our district website is not user friendly design should be clear accessible for parents staff and prospective families. Transparency transparency is about communication and we need to keep Okay, thank you very much. All right, back to the top. We only have a few more questions left. Uh Lewis, how will you make it easier for parents and stakeholders to express their questions and concerns and how will you respond to them? So, uh student parent voice are essential to a to a healthy responsive school district. Uh when we actively to those most impacted by our decisions. We build trust, increase engagement, and make better informed choices that reflect the needs of our community. For students, giving them a voice means more than just surveys. It's about fostering regular structured opportunities
048to share feedback, whether through student advisory panels, leadership forums, or open discussions with school leaders. When students feel heard, they feel valued and that strengthens the school's culture and academic motivation. For parents, we should go beyond the standard PTA structure by offering forms focused on specific topics like curricular changes, special education, mental health, and by creating more accessible transparent communication channels. Surveys, town halls, and round table discussions happen regularly and at times that accommodate working families. As a board member, I'll push this to these opportunities so that students and parents voice are not just welcome. Okay. Thank you very much. Uh Joel candidate students district. Our families and students deserve to feel heard, seen, respected. And that starts with being visible and approaching. I make it a show up at games. These moments matter. We
049build trust and offer insight into what our students truly mean. At the same time, as I understand the importance of maintaining professionalism, honoring the chamber. It's not about overstepping rules. It's about listening carefully, following proper channels, and working laboratory administrators to bring concerns forward and solutions. I'm committed to representing our districts whether they children schools future district parents or longtime residents every voice counts. If elected, I will continue showing up listening closely and advocating closely ensure our schools reflect the values and needs of our entire community. Okay, thank you. Uh, so I think it's so important that we continue to figure out I I think that the board has done a lot and the administration has done a lot to improve communications weekly weekly happenings. Um, I I certainly get paddle weekly. So I think
050that the board has done a lot to try to build there and I think there's work that can be done to more actively seek out perspectives. So often I'm one of the only parents at schoolboard meetings um have young kids. It's hard to get there as a parent of young kids. Candidly minor periods like here tonight instead of with them putting them to bed. Um but I think we have to acknowledge the many things that working parents and working families have going on. And so not just how do we say come to us, but how do we come to you? And so I think that we can build on the progress that we've made to continue to be even more active and less passive. And so it it includes things like how are we as
051board members being remaining engaged in our community, showing up, listening, asking questions of people um and really showing up to events and saying, "Tell me about your experience." It's been one of my favorite things over the past couple months, getting to talk to so many families, particular and high school families um to understand what's working in the district for you, what can we be doing differently, what can we be doing better um and so how do we just continue to engage strategically through everything from uh committees um like finance committee, the utilities committee. Okay, thank you very much. Um Joel, are you ready for this question? What is your stance on testing an elementary grade specifically the I Ready tests perfectly honest that's not one of my expertise is the operating much about what students
052do basis having children currently in our programs. It's one thing that I honestly say that I would have to look into a little further. It's what the district needs. It's actually what I will support. Thank you very much. Uh staff Um so I think as it relates to testing in elementary grades broadly um I think we have to really strike the right balance um in terms of what are we assessing and how are we messaging that to students right I mean state tests just happened um for our elementary school students and that can create a lot of stress um for students but as it relates to I ready I think what it really comes down to is how If we are using the data to ask ourselves what do our students know what have they
053learned and where are their gaps then that is valid data and it's and it's things that we should be doing because without that input and step along the way where we step up not just you know daily or a unit test but really how are students progressing along the way. We need that data. But what we have to do and what we owe to our students is first helping them understand why we're doing it. It's not because they're so high stakes and it's super high pressure. It's this is an opportunity to show off everything we've learned and say, "What do I know and where do I need help?" We all need help. And so I went to Dr. Kio's presentation this fall where he talked about I Ready and the continuum of assessments that we
054do. and I followed up in conversations with him this spring to really understand how is how are he and administrators using that data not just to collect data but to train teachers on what it means for what students do and don't know and how to best okay thank you very much so uh you repeat the question what is your stance on testing in the elementary grade specific typically the I ready test. So testing the elementary grades are extremely important because we need to make sure that our students are being sent off to the upper grades, middle school, high school with that specific strong foundation. Um what I know about I Ready is that it does uh it's it's administered but the data is I believe that two three times per year or tested two or
055three times per year and that data data could be uh used to um have students uh utilize the wind program in a certain way where they can go and get extra help. And then through that uh we can then now that we have at least one reading interventionist coming to the elementary school those children could be referred to interventionist for that um that backing and foundation that's required. Okay very good. This is going to be the last question. How do you see the school board evaluating the new superintendent? Um, so what I would say first and foremost is hiring, overseeing, and supporting the superintendent, regardless of whether it's a new superintendent or they've been here for 10 years, is the single most important job that the school board has. Um, and so I think that
056we all have to that a critical part of the role whether person is coming in in their first year like like uh Mr. Roberts will be next year or not. Um I think that it is really important that school boards and superintendent build open lines of communication. Um that it is clear that we're not just here to oversee, we're also here to support. Um, and we can't support unless you let us in and you help us have clear insight into what's going on, what's your read on, what's going on across our schools and across our district. Um, and then I think it's a partnership where we have to work together to make sure that again we're all clear on what our strategic priorities are as a district. We have annual plans that say here's how
057we're going to live those things out and we have progress monitoring along the way where we check back and say how are we doing against those priorities year over year and what does it mean for things we need to do differently now so we're not waiting until the end of the year to make shifts. So I think it has to be a collaborative and open relationship and it has to be one built on trust and lots of communication. Okay. Thank you very much, Louis. The board of board of education plays a vital role in shaping the direction of our district. First, the board supports and holds the superintendent accountable for carrying out goals. Second, it oversees the budget to ensure we remain fiscally responsible and transparent with tax dollars. Third, we set long-term goals through
058strategic planning and a clear district to uh to ensure students thrive academically and personally. We also uh create and manage policy by forming committees, setting standards, and ensuring those policies are properly implemented across all schools. Going forward, and if I'm elected as trustee, I'll push to effectively acclimate on boarding administrators by touring our unique village and its rich history. This will instill a sense of home and community with this new superintendent. Diversity is one of the strongest attributes of our village and district and I strongly believe that it needs to be understood in order for our onboarding professional to be effective in the schools. The best part about this election is that there is a good opportunity to have three alumni trustees who can support these needs and advocate for our community students and administrators.
059In a small district like ours, it's imperative that we hold communication and transparency to the highest standard. is impossible to govern effectively without it. Okay. Thank you, Joel. Administrative turnover. It's a concern of our district and as a prospective board member, I believe we I believe we need to focus on strengthening relationships with our administrators as well as our incoming student. It's essential that we create opportunities for our open communication with our administrators, not voice for an individual personal board forcing more collaborative support environment. This coming year we'll be providing support necessary to help our new administration would be our new superintendent acclimate to the telco community. I believe having three alumni on the board all with deep historical knowledge of our district can be a major asset in offering guidance to our managers. I
060also believe some of our administrators are overworked and underpaid and beyond that we need to make changes within the district. I believe restructuring the middle high school years ago was a misstep and we need to reevaluate the structure administrative team and ensure more support of our buildings of our middle school. Our school should create an environment that would attract and retain top down while ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of our students, parents and teachers effectively. Okay. Thank you. So now it's time for our closing statement. It's one minute. Okay. And we're going to go in the same order that we started. So Lewis, you've got the first closing statement. I'm running for the board of education because I believe in Taco Bell, its history, its people, and its future. As a parent of
061two children in the district, a lifelong resident, and a local business owner, I have deep and personal stake in the success of our schools. I've seen firsthand the incredible work our teachers and st do every day and I want to ensure that they have the support, resources and the leadership they need to thrive. My experience as an architect, mentor and community volunteer has prepared me to contribute meaningfully from day one. Whether it's helping prioritize capital improvements on the service committee or opening my office to high school interns, I've always believed in giving back to the place of education. I'll bring transparency, accountability, and a strong sense of stewardship to the board. Let's work together to build a stronger, more vibrant district. prepares every student for success. I will embrace the challenge. I will lead with
062purpose and we will all succeed with pride. Joel and I will be honored to earn your vote on May 20th. Thank you. Okay. Thank you very much Joel. Okay. Thank you all for being here tonight and I thank the PTA, our school community, the League of Women Voters for hosting this forum. As a proud Taco alum and lifelong Taco res, I carry this carry this community in my heart. I've walked these halls as both a student and a staff member, giving me a unique firsthand understanding of what makes our district strong and where we grow. For over 16 years, I've worked to support our students as a school safety professional, union president, senior class advisor, and small business owner. Always focused on student success, smart budget. I bring a practical student centered approach to issues
063like safety, special education, early early learning and career readiness grounded and experience and deep knowledge for our district. With a new leadership ahead, we need voices with deep roots and clear vision. I believe Taco and our students in our future. I'd be honored to serve both for myself and thank you. Thank you very much, Seth. Thanks again to our moderator, John, to Joel and Lewis, to the PTA, and everyone for tuning in tonight. I remain so excited about the direction our district is heading, and I'd be honored to serve on the school board to help advance that progress and keep the district moving forward. As I said before, next year is an important one as the board helps build our next strategic plan and supports our new superintendent. And I'm eager to lead in both
064of those areas as we move forward. Again, I'd like to see us prioritize three things. First, stability in our district senior leadership. Second, uh continue focus on student retention in particular, um extending progress we've seen to our middle school in particular. Um, and third, meeting the needs of all learners, including students in our special education program. Serving on the board is a big responsibility. It means asking all parents to put their trust in someone to do what's best for their child and for all of our children, and asking all residents to trust that somebody has the judgment to make fiscally responsible decisions. In this role, I keep my focus where it matters most, on ensuring we meet the academic and social emotional needs of all students, engage all families, and make decisions in the best
065interest of all taxpayers. Thank you. Thank you very much. Okay, everybody, that's your forum. It's not easy to be put yourself out here and take all the questions and all the arrows that'll come come at you if you do get elected. So, thank you very much, gentlemen. Thank you.