East Irondequoit CSD Board of Education Candidates Night, April 28th, 2026

001Good evening everyone and welcome to the East Randquite Central School District meet the candidates night. My name is Amy Thomas and I'm the executive director of the Monroe County School Boards Association and I am so pleased that I have been invited to Eastern Quite to be the moderator this evening. This year there are five candidates running for four seats. Our candidates seated in ballot order are Carol Watt, Jill Richie, Elena Matthews, Dan McCannernney, and Katrina Davenport. Before we invite the candidates to share their opening statement, I'd like to take a moment to recognize the service of our board of education members in East Randquay. Board members serve as dedicated, unpaid volunteers who commit countless hours to learning, decisionmaking, and staying informed on issues, legislation, and trends that impact public education. They remain accessible to our

002community by serving on district committees and attending events throughout the school year. Tonight's candidates are stepping forward to take on that same level of responsibility and public service. And I want to thank each of them for their willingness to serve our students, our schools, and our entire community. Candidates, I'd like to thank you for being here tonight. You are going to be provided three minutes for an opening introductory statement. After opening statements, each candidate will be asked four questions, alternating who answers first, and then I'll ask any audience questions that have been submitted this evening. Candidates, you'll be given two minutes to deliver your responses. And please feel free to ask me to repeat any of the questions if needed. We'll end the night with a two-minute closing statement from each one of you. Please

003watch the timekeeper right in front of you. Um, a yellow card will indicate that you have 30 seconds left and a red card means that your time is up. As a reminder, community members in attendance may submit questions to Danielle Gervki, who's seated right over there, the director of communications on index cards that are provided. She'll quickly review all submissions and reserve the right to exclude questions that are inappropriate, duplicative, or outside the scope of the candidate forum. To ensure we have enough time for all candidates to respond thoughtfully, each audience member may submit up to three questions. Additionally, to maintain a fair and respectful format, the there will be no direct back and forth between the audience members and the candidates. All questions will be presented through me. Okay, candidates, are we ready? All

004right, we'll begin with our opening statements and it's time to get to know each one of our candidates. So, we will begin with an opening statement starting with Carol. >> Good evening everyone. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share a little bit about myself. My name is Carol and I've lived in Eastern almost my entire life. I am currently residing in the house I grew up in. I'm happily married to my husband Robbie for 43 years. I'm a proud Eastridge grad who just celebrated, dear Lord, I cannot believe I'm saying this, my 50th reunion last year. I am the proud mother of a year 2000 Eastridge grad. I believe that a good I I'm sorry. I believe that I got a good educational foundation here in East Randquite. I think Jamie, my daughter,

005got a great educational foundation here in East Ronda White. I believe that our current students get an exceptional educational foundation here as they have a plethora of choices to enhance their educational experience no matter the path they choose to move forward. Thank you. >> Thanks, Carol. Jill. >> Thank you. Good evening. I'm Jill Richie and I'm so grateful for this opportunity to share with you my thoughts about service on the East Ronquet School Board. Thank you, Amy, for serving as our moderator this evening and to the school district for hosting tonight's forum and to my fellow candidates for their willingness to step forward and serve our community and to those here tonight for taking the time to be engaged in this important process. Carol, I also agree with you about education through this district. So,

006thank you for those comments. I am a lifelong resident who attended Easter schools and began my teaching career here in the district. I'm a certified special education teacher and currently serve as instructional coach at North Rose Wilkit Middle School. I'm eager to continue serving on the board of education because my deep personal connection to this community and my strong commitment to education. I bring both lived experience and an educator's perspective to board service. I'm committed to student centered decision-making, collaboration, and continuous improvement. My motivation to serve comes from my desire to give back to a community that's given so much to me and to provide all students with a highquality well-rounded education that includes strong academics, the arts, and athletics, supports both academic and social emotional development, and prepare students for life beyond graduation, and

007is delivered in a safe, modern learning environments. In my six years of service to the board, the district has made intentional investments to remove bar remove barriers and expand opportunities for students. These efforts include providing free school supplies, meals for all students, device protection, instruments, and participation in musical festivals, and continue to cover fees associated with AP and dual enrollment courses. The district strengthened academic through curriculum, academics through curriculum updates, the addition of interventionists, full day prek and career pathways, improved safety, and renovated the Helenale library, upgraded fields, and purchased and began development of the Dunsmore property, and have plans to modernize career technical education classrooms. Serving on the board allows me to contribute thoughtfully, listen, and work collaboratively in support of the district's mission while keeping students at the center of every deci every

008decision. I would be honored to continue serving. >> Thanks, Jill. >> Thank you, >> Elena. I can't believe I have to follow that. >> Well, thank you for everyone for being here. Um, my name is Elena. I am not a lifelong resident of uh Eastern. My husband Jeff, who I have a suspicion is walking in right about now. There he is. Um, uh, we have lived in the Laurel neighborhood for 15 years. If you know about the Laurel neighborhood, you know about the Laurel neighborhood. Um, I currently have a fifth grader right here at Laurelton Party and a seventh grader at the middle school. Um, and I don't have all these lovely accolades to shout out yet, but here's a little bit about me. A long, long time ago, I managed a restaurant. Um, so

009working in a restaurant, you could imagine I was probably the only girl managing uh lots of younger students or kids, students, wherever they came from. Um, and then I decided that the best thing to do when I had my son Cole was to stay home. So that's what I decided to do. Um, but as anyone may know or have the experience of knowing someone who's a stay-at-home mom, that gets uh stressful. So it was time for me to do something for myself. So, I decided to sell Pamper Chef and I still do that today. Um, I serve on the board of just elected yesterday on the board of the middle school PTSA. Um, and I'm finishing up my uh time here at Laurelton Party, which is uh pretty bittersweet. I also serve on the Eastern

010Quite Youth Lacrosse board um as the vice president of girls lacrosse and I just recently got a job working in a kitchen at a local school district serving little kindergarteners lunch. and it's so super fun. Um, you can find me on my mental health walks on my day off or at a lacrosse field or a marching band competition or a dance studio. So, um, I really appreciate being here. Um, and I look forward to working with everyone. >> Thanks, Elena. Dan, >> uh, I'm Dan McCannernney. I've lived in the district for about 30 years and we have four grown children, all who went to Easter schools. I don't know where the time went, but here we are. Um, every day I'm really inspired by the hard work and dedication of our students and staff and

011administrators. And as a district, we all know that we strive to offer the best education possible in a safe and secure and supportive environment where all of us feel uh, valued and connected. Sitting at this table, I get to see firsthand our successes, but also our challenges. Um but we're lucky here that we address those challenges um by address them head-on by working collaboratively uh creating stronger connections and partnerships. We're really working hard at that in now and and moving into the future and also just by focusing on the needs of our students, families, and staff. And so I look forward to continuing to serve on the board. >> Thanks Jan. Katrina. >> Hello. I am Katrina Davenport. I am not a lifelong resident. Um we've been here for about 10 years. Um I have

012four children. We wanted the other three are grown. We wanted one more. Um which brought us to the East Ronda Quoy School District. And just from volunteering, getting involved, I saw something different about the school district. Really enjoyed um being a part of a family. And one night I was looking and it said they needed some help at on the board. So I applied. So I originally um came in through interview process because I said why complain when I can come and help come and see what it's really about. And that's what I did. And since I've been on the board I am learning so much but that allows me to educate others. Um, I'm I'm motivated by a commitment to what I call fit fit, fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency. I believe these values are

013essential to building trust, strengthening our schools, and ensuring that all students are given the opportunity to succeed. That's what I want for mine and that's what I want for everybody's child is to succeed their way. um I would listen carefully and I ask thoughtful questions and the questions sometimes others don't want to ask um so that we can get the conversation moving um we have enjoyed being in East Rhonda I love the learning I love the my person now is in middle school and it's just awesome every time I go there he comes home excited about what he's learning what he's has done >> thanks Please Katrina. Okay, it's now time for the question and answer portion of the evening. So, a reminder that answers should not exceed two minutes. And when there are 30

014seconds remaining, the candidates in the candidates aotted time, you'll see the 30 second notification. And when the time is up, the second notification will be shown. For the first question, we're going to begin with Jill. Jill, please share what inspired you to run for the East Ronda White Board of Education and the unique perspective you would bring to the role. >> Many factors inspired me to run for the board. Most importantly, my deep passion for education and the well-being of our students. I loved growing up in Eastern Anquite and proud to still call it home. My experiences both as a student and an educator in the district continue to guide my desire to serve. My mother was a was and is a tremendous influence on my career and my commitment to education. She instilled the

015value of education. As a student in Eastern Ranoquay, I also benefited from teachers who made a positive and lasting impact on my life. And I want to help ensure future students have those same experiences. And honestly, one of my former teachers just text me right before this started. So that was really cool. I began my career in this district working alongside dedicated professionals and colleagues who model teamwork, collaboration, and commitment to safe, inclusive learning environments. Those values continue to inform my leadership and work on the board. I'm committed to supporting the district's effort to offer forward thinking educational experiences that prepare students not just for college and careers but for real for the real world building essential skills like collaboration critical think thinking problem solving and financial literacy. >> Thanks Jill Elena same question. Um,

016you know, it's funny how life works, right? When you go to college and you think, "Oh, this is what I'm going to do. This is the path I'm going to take." And in my 20s, that path took a total different trajectory. And at the time, I didn't know what it meant, but it meant meeting my husband, having kids, not working at a restaurant anymore. But that what that did give me was time to volunteer. um having the opportunity to start in kindergarten with Cole and working through up until COVID when we couldn't go to schools anymore, but then continuing um joining the PTA, organizing events, being part of their classroom, their education, see what they're doing in their classroom, getting to know the staff, supporting the teachers any way that I can because let's face

017it, like their job is very hard. Um and they have our kids the longest amount of time. So, we want to make sure that we give them everything to succeed. and that was my um goal to be in the classroom as much as I could. Um so that time volunteering and then later joining all the P the PTSA boards and the PTA boards that I was on really gave me more of a perspective of what we do well here and what we what could be better. And I just thought that um with lacrosse um seeing that and helping that grow, I thought this would probably be like the next trajectory of my life is um joining the Eastern quite school board helping those uh students succeed in all areas that are fit for them whether

018it is you know in a trade my husband's an electrician so we know that's very important but if they want to go the collegiate route as well. So thanks Dan. Same question. >> I um well my all four like I said all four of my kids went through the Eastern Ranch schools. I was super active as a as a room parent but back when that was a thing. Um and uh and and you know over time once they were they were they were through the system and that I really just looked at and said that you know they received a fantastic education here and we were really connected to the community a lot through the marching band organ Eastern parents for music but we um I said it's time to to give back and so

019my wife is an educator so it's kind of always had my the fingers in that part of the the realm of it too and I just thought this is this is an opportunity to to to serve I have a background in in nonprofit management, some financial background, and I was trained as an educator, but that was a lifetime ago. speaking of lifetime changes, but I think that um it it's it's been really rewarding to be on this side of of the table and to to be a part of so many really fantastic uh initiatives and changes that are that are happening and it and how uh the focus is always student and and community and families, but how it evolves over time. So, it's there's each year is a slightly different set of challenges. Um,

020and it's it's exciting and I, you know, I just was inspired to be a part of that. >> Thanks, Dan. Katrina, >> everyone's looking at me. >> Well, I'm inspired. I've only been on the board a short time. You know, I'm probably that kid. I don't want to go cuz I've learned so much. And to see what the board actually does and how it has an impact on the community, on our children, I think I can add um different insights. Um, I think every family deserves to be heard, valued, and represented at the table because when we bring more voices to the table, it brings us together. It gives us things that we didn't think about before. Um, we strengthen our schools and we build a more connected and inclusive um, community. Um, the unique

021perspective I bring to the table comes from my experiences across multiple educational settings. I've been involved with and either involved or my kids attending Rochester City School District, Fairport Central School District, charter schools, um, private schools. And if anyone knows me, I am not quiet. I speak up. I get involved. So, I've been able to see firsthand the strengths and challenges within different education systems. Um, this broad exposure has given me valuable insight as to how policies, resources, different things work and how to get the children's voice heard. Um, the different ways to help them try to voice it themselves. And then when they're not listened to, then I step in. Thanks Katrina Carol. >> So I was PTA council president for two years and I attended meetings therefore for two years before I ran

022for the board of education. Some of the board members got to know me and asked me to run with them. Jeff Petri was one of them actually. I was intrigued to be able to continue to support our students and advocate for them on a larger level through the county, state, and nation. Ultimately though, I ran because of leadership. Worrying about tomorrow, wanting to to continue the history of a solid educational foundation and speaking up for our community is what a leader does. My perspective encompasses the fact that I'm a former grad, the parent of a former grad and I have a wealth of experience serving the district before I was elected through much like Katrina PTA sitebased team adopt a senior various committees and after I was elected by serving as chair for Monroe County

023School Board's information exchange attending conventions, seminars, webinars, mentoring student board reps, mentoring new board members, and learning the best methods to advocate for our district. My long history in the district and on the board enables me to see the growth and development and how far we've come in this district over the last several decades. >> Thanks, Carol. Okay, for the next question, we're going to begin with Elena. Elena, what values or guiding principles will you bring to board discussions and votes? I think that and and what everyone is saying I think the main motivation and guiding principle that I think we all have is that whatever we do is for the students in our school first and foremost it's we want to pri prioritize their academics but we also want to make sure that their

024social emotional needs are met as well in every decision that we make we do this by providing equitable access for all learners and support the needs of the staff and administration also we build upon the trust within in our community. That's super important to me. I'm involved in lots of different marching band. I totally even forgot about that. All the other things all of all the, you know, I've got my hands everywhere in the community. So, it's really important for us to be transparent about um what we are doing and um I just lost my train of thought because um yeah, I'm pretty active in many of the different communities. So, fostering those with relationships with them is super important. Um, and so I feel like that is one of the values that I'll bring

025here. >> Thanks, Elena. Dan. >> Yeah. Well, I I completely agree. I mean, every decision that we make at this table is really is is student focused. Um, and that has expanded a bit toward student and family focused and then also even and then the bigger part of that, the staff. So, the community as a as a as a school district, but also, you know, so often the school is is for for a lot of kids is is their community. And so, um, being totally focused on that is is that's the main driver of everything we do. And and sometimes it means that we have to make a decision to we can't do this because we need to stay on the path of doing this. And um, it's uh, it's tough because there are never

026enough resources for everything we that we want to do, but we're we're trying. So, it's students students first. >> Thanks, Dan. Katrina, same question. Well, them too. Of course, students first always. That's why we are all here. Um, also, um, I value diverse perspectives and believe in fostering open, um, honest dialogue. Um, everyone's voice needs to be heard. Um, every child needs to be spoken for, um, lifted up. you know, why can't we create a club that they may want but maybe it's only two people. >> So to fight for them so that they can feel included. Um I'm committed to preserving the dignity of every individual and honoring our differences. That's what makes us great. Um when we first came to East Rhonda, just the differences, the different people experiences. >> It's nice. No

027one wants everything to be the same. So, let's learn about each other, get along with each other, and be better. >> Thanks, Katrina. Carol, same question. >> So, trying to find a different way. We're just talking about this Jan and I to say something. So, my guiding principles to making decisions on this board are to be student centered. I found a different way. Thank you. but balance that with being fiscally responsible to the needs of the community as a whole. I try to be open and honest and listen to other board members so that I can get their perspectives and I'm willing to give my ideas and perspectives in return. I would like to think that I'm accountable for my actions and my decisions with both the staff and public. One example of that would

028be asking for help from parents, parent groups, and staff when we were advocating for full funding of foundation aid. um they came through, the staff was amazing, the students were amazing, parents wrote letters, and we succeeded and we're very appreciative to them. >> Thanks, Carol. Jill, well, we were joking around preparing for this one day and like sometimes you just want to say like ditto. So, ditto. Um, no, obviously we are here for the students and I do respect and appreciate all your answers. As a middle school instructional coach, I bring an educator's perspective grounded in everyday classroom realities and a commitment to continuous improvement. My work gives me a firsthand insight into students academic, social, and emotional needs, as well as challenges and opportunities educators face, which I bring to board discussions on policy,

029curriculum, and student supports. I'm student centered, sorry, Carol, and believe all board decisions should be guided by what's in the best interest of students. I advocate for safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments where students have the opportunity to succeed. Supporting students also means supporting educators in the systems that serve them by ensuring access to resources, tools, and structures necessary for success. Moreover, I bring strong ethical values to board service, including honesty, integrity, transparency, and accountability. Effective government governance is built on trust, open communication, and collaboration. I value listening to multiple perspectives, engaging in respectful dialogue, and making well-informed decisions that reflect our students, staff, families, and the broader community. Above all, I consistently return to one guiding question. What is best for our students? >> Thanks, Jill. >> Okay, the next question. Dan, what strategies

030would you use to build and maintain transparency and trust within the community regarding board decisions? I I I mean there's really to me there's only really one strategy and that's just clear and consistent communication. So I I think we do a good job of that here. Uh you know with between newsletters, the information on the website, social media posts, all the sort of things like that. But it's a mount it's just a matter of trying to get the information out uh in in really a consistent way. We're pretty pretty good about that. we've got a timeline for that sort of communication, but also when questions come to the to the board, um you know, we're we're really good about giving a a clear, concise answer to those questions. As as individuals, we're usually able to

031answer a lot of questions when people ask. Um you know, there's obviously some some things that are that are confidential that we can't really talk about. Um, but even in those circumstances, I think we can we can at least be confident in the way that we that we communicate some of that and and you know, there's nothing going on. You know, it's just like this is we can't we can't talk about this specifically, but we can at least at least keep you in the loop a little bit about it. Um, but again, it's really just about communication. And I I thank you to Danielle for that, but I think we do a really good job of of of of getting the messaging out. Whether people pay attention is another thing. Um but that we can't

032really control that. So but I think we do a do a good job. >> Thanks Dan. Katrina, same question. >> Okay. The strategy um that I would bring to build upon is balancing business and benevolence. Um I think it's essential to maintaining transparency and trust within the community and it is a strategy I often use. Together, business and benevolence create a balanced approach, one that is principled, transparent, and deeply committed to the community's trust. On the business side, ensuring that financial responsibility and policy decisions are made with wisdom while keeping the needs of students, families, and staff at the center. And then under benevolence, um it must remain the foundation. When sound decision- making is grounded in compassion and service, it strengthens confidence that every choice is being made in the best interest of students,

033families, and the district as a whole. >> Thanks, Katrina. Carol, >> I agree with you, Dan. Um, I feel as if our board has been transparent. Our meetings are open to the public and advertised as such. I've encouraged parents to attend and I know Jill, Dan, and current board members have also encouraged parents to attend whenever I'm at a meeting such as a PTA meeting. I welcome phone calls, emails, text messages, Facebook messages, and if there's anything I'm missing, I'm sorry. And I try to answer them as quickly as possible. Anyone can attend our meetings and ask questions during public input and respon respond through a letter as soon as possible. The information on how to reach us is available online. As a liaison, I also try to report in person or by high by

034email, sorry, highlights of board meetings. We welcome both staff members to our meetings who share building events and student board reps who bring us their perspectives and share school happenings. That said, I am open to any suggestions to make it easier to for folks to engage with us. I think being willing to listen and be honest and being willing to follow through with stakeholders is vital to trust and transparency. And I did want to hold up. Thank you, Danielle. The newsletter is one way to prove we do communicate a lot. >> Thank you, >> Jill. Um, transparency and trust are built through engagement and open communication. As a board member, I prioritize being accessible by attending school, district, and community events. These opportunities allow me to stay connected to students, staff, families, and community members

035to better understand their experiences with our schools. I'm involved in organizations that support the district and attend PTA meetings where there is thoughtful dialogue and collaboration by maintaining open lines of communication and staying actively engaged. I work to build and maintain relationships with community members. This helps ensure that board decisions are understood understood and reflective of community values. Visibility, active listening, and communication are essential to effective governance and earning public trust. Next, I'm going to bring a prop. >> Thank you. Thank you, >> Elena. >> Okay. Um, so I took this very literal as a parent um who is very very busy. First of all, I agree like all I see all of the I see them at events and I hear what they are saying. I and this is true and yes, Danielle's newsletter

036is stunning. Every time it comes in the mail, I love reading it. Um, but if I'm being really honest, I have two kids that are in four different things and I am not the only one in the district that is like that. Um, so getting parents to attend a meeting on a Tuesday at six o'clock is very difficult. whether they want to or not is a different story. But if they do want to, I feel like there's got to be more a more accessible way for them to view it. And it could be as something as just recording it like this is now and posting it on our YouTube later so that families can watch it while they're sitting in the parking lot waiting for their student or waiting for their kid to finish their

037sporting event. or if you want to just do it, you know, old school influencer and do a Facebook live so that people can pop on and watch it. That I think coupled with all of the communications that we get, you're going to get more people to be pay attention to what's going on if the meetings are available for them to watch when they can't be here. Um, and also, you know, the I only know this because I go to the PTA meetings, but I'm one of very few parents that know that you could read the board meeting packet the day before the board meeting to know what's going on. So, if that was readily available, not just on the board page, but like, hey, here's what we're going to talk about at this week's board

038meeting, and here's where it's going to be, you might get more parent input, paying attention to what's happening. and um the board and the decisions that they're making and I mean I'm nosy so I just ask them but not everybody else is. >> Thanks Elena. >> Thanks. >> Okay, the next question we're going to begin with you Katrina. When faced with difficult budget decisions, what factors guide your choices and how do you ensure that those decisions reflect community values? Um when faced with difficult budget decisions um especially budget I'm accounting background my choices are guided by um a few key factors. I ask questions um because questions is how you get answers. Um I ask how are the students going to be impacted? Are they going to be impacted positively or negatively? Um because we're

039here we all agree that it's it's about the students. Um next question would be does this promote equity and fairness? Is is this going to be across the board or is there just one section that's going to benefit and how do we make it equitable and inclusive? Um does this decision align with the district's goals, strategic plan that we want to accomplish, that the community wants us to accomplish? Um and what does the community want? And the ways to find that out, surveys, going to events, going to PTSAs, talking to people to see, you know, we may want one thing one day. Life happens, things change. So to make sure that everyone is getting heard and at the table. >> Thanks, Katrina. Carol, same question. >> There's a balancing process when faced with difficult board

040decisions. often you're dealing with state guidelines or mandates sometimes not funded, the constraints of a budget, what our expert administrators are saying, and listening to community input. But ultimately, as I said earlier, putting the needs, health, and safety of students and staff first while taking into account fiscal restraints and being willing to listen to perspectives of my fellow board members guide my decisions. >> Thanks, Carol. Jills. >> When faced with challenging budget decisions, I'm gu guided by the district's mission, vision, strategic plans, and goals. I rely on detailed board presentations, updates from student schoolboard representatives, the superintendent, building, and district administrators, as well as ongoing feedback from students, staff, families, and community members. I value feedback gathered from PTA meetings, school visits, and conversations across our school community. Building and maintaining professional relationships with those

041who know our students best and work with and care for them daily is essential. These perspectives help ensure that the budget's decisions are well informed and reflective of community priorities and values. Also, as a district, we advocate at a local, state, and national level to work with our partners in government to ensure maximize funding. And we also work with Moro County Schoolboard Association and NISBA as well um to help us with decisions and being informed when we're advocating for our students. I'm committed to making informed decisions that are fiscally responsible and reflective of our community's priorities while keeping students at the heart of every decision. >> Thanks Jill Elena. So, this obviously was a tough answer for me or tough question for me to answer because I've never been in the position to make a

042difficult budget decision except like at home when I want to buy something and I'm not allowed. Um, but um, it's not even um, so but obviously I agree with what the rest of the candidates said. It's how is it going to impact the students? Is it going to impact them negatively? Is it going to affect all of them or just a small group? And how will the other group feel? And it's kind of like having two kids and what you choose to buy them. Um, so that is the most important thing is how is it going to impact the students and living in the community as a community member, I do ask the questions. I listen to what these guys say when they come to the PTA meetings. So, I feel like creating those relationships

043with our community members, having that transparency about why we're making the decisions and to be remain fiscally responsible, um I feel is probably how you would do it, right? >> Thanks. >> All that there's not much else to say. Um but it really is it's student driven. You know, I think some of the we've we've in the last six years, we've had some challenging moments. Um, but you know, one of the things about students, keeping class sizes down was has always been a priority as much as possible because, you know, it's just that's sort of a sweet spot for for kids and for families, they that's something that they see, you know, if they go in and there's 27 kids in that room, well, that's, you know, when maybe 17 would be nicer, you know.

044Um, so that that has really driven that. I think we've we've made tough decisions before where you know maybe it is a program that's it's really it's benefiting such a tiny number of students that we've had to sometimes say okay that needs to go because we want to focus on something that's going to benefit the broader community. Um but we've been you know we've had been very fortunate I mean Carol would know going way back that we have a community that supports the schools and um that that trusts the board and the and the financial decisions that are that are made. um and passed budgets which is really important uh and has really um put Eastern on a path of of success in the last 25 years that that was very uncertain 25 years ago.

045So, >> thanks Dan. >> Yep. >> Okay, I see Danielle over in the corner here, our director of communications coming forward with questions from the audience. I do want to just repeat the protocols in place for these um submissions and just repeat question. Okay. >> If I get lost, I'll look at you. Okay. Um I just want to remind the audience of the protocols in place during um the audience questions. So Danielle, as I said, has gone through the questions. If there was anything that was duplicate, we are not going to answer those questions. Anything inappropriate, of course, we will not either. Um, also to maintain a fair and respectful format, there's no direct back and forth between the audience and the candidates. So, all questions will be presented through me. Okay. All right. So,

046we are going to begin with Carol. The first audience question, are you for the teachers union or the kids? I am for both. I didn't I don't see those as being mutually exclusive. I think the teachers union stands up for teachers and what they need and I think the teachers stand up for students and what they need. At least that's my experience in this district. >> Thanks Carol Jill. >> Um yes I both I mean obviously I've mentioned many times that I am a teacher. I am part of our union. Um, but again, we've also all mentioned that kids are first and foremost. So, I think there's a time and a place for a union. You know, you don't want any one entity being too strong or to oversee something. So, I think the union,

047you work together with them to do what's best for students. And yes, I mean, teachers and staff do get worked into the union, but at the end of the day, the union is there for the kids. And everybody hopefully that are working in school buildings and districts are there for the kids. So, I'm for progress and everybody maximizing their experiences. >> Thanks, Jill. Elena. >> Yeah, Ditto. I mean, >> no. Yeah, I don't think it's an either or. I think it's a both. You definitely want to support the teachers because like I said earlier, they are with your child more than you are every, you know, 180 days out of the year. So you definitely want to support them and give them what they need because then they take into account what our children and

048their needs are and are being met. So I yeah I think they are go mutually together. >> Yeah. I mean the the board is here to support the students. The teachers that's that's part of education, right? You're in the classroom supporting supporting the students too. Uh every every meeting we have we hear from EITA uh with a presentation about all the fantastic things that are happening across the district. It's a lot. And if they weren't um if we didn't have this positive relationship with them, they wouldn't bother. Um so it's clear that that that there there is a good working relationship. Uh the union is there, you know, to to protect other parts of being a teacher. There's a lot of sticky stuff that without a union that that wouldn't work so well for them.

049I I can My wife was part of a teachers union. >> I'm a teamster, God forbid. Um but but it's it's we have we are really fortunate uh in this district. It has not been that way forever, but certainly now uh we have a good working relationship with the union and and we're all here to support the kids >> and support each other. >> Thank you, Katrina. >> I think they said it all. I agree. It's both. You can't have one without the other. So we need the teachers and we need the students. So it's just balance. Let's balance everything out and >> ditto. >> Yeah. >> Ditto. >> Okay. Next question. We'll begin with Jill. >> Are you for parents rights? >> Um that's a very open-ended question and I understand that and respect

050that. Yeah. I mean, so it's hard to say definitively yes or no. Yes. Should parents be informed? Absolutely. Should parents be part of the process of their child's education? Absolutely. Parents know their their child or our students best. So, we need to be in constant communication and collaboration with parents. We want to we value their perspective. We want parent input. We want parents and families in our schools. We want parents volunteering. We want them showing up for events. Um, so I mean, I'm for parent involvement in every factor of a student's education. >> Thanks, Jill. Elena. >> Yeah, I agree with Jill. That is kind of like an open like what rights am I for? I mean, I think as as a parent in the district, I've never felt hindered by anyone um ha wanting

051to be part of my child's education and what's going on with them. And even just as recently in the past month at both my children's, they've both been having issues and there's been complete open communication. Nobody's left me out. I maybe because I'm a big mouth and they don't want to. I don't know. But like I don't I don't know. I can't see why like it's a weird question and I don't know how to answer it except yeah I want parent involvement and I believe that it's welcome. So I guess >> yeah I would agree. We are as transparent and open as possible. Uh and you know sure there's there's you know a chain of command right. So whatever the issue is, you know, you're going to talk to your your child's teacher and the

052principal and if it goes beyond that, there's there are steps forward and above that. Um, but but it's it's it's very open and so if if people are feeling as though they you can be as involved or as uninvolved as you want to be here and and um I be involved, >> right, >> Katrina? That's interest. Can you repeat the question? Are you for parents rights? >> Is there anything else? It does not. >> I promise you I have nothing else written here. >> So very open-ended and I will say it depends. Um yes, I am for parents rights, but what does that mean or what does that entail? So like everyone else said, yes, we want I want the parents involved. If if even if I'm not on the board as another parent, I

053want you involved. I want you in the classrooms. I want you volunteering. I'm on the PTSA. please come volunteer. >> Um, so yes, I'm going to leave it like that. >> Thanks, Katrina. Carol, >> in a general way, absolutely. Yes. I mean, we I am a parent. So, yeah, I want rights and we represent parents and I expect them to I respect their rights. So, what everybody else said and yes, >> thanks Carol. Okay, Elena, you will begin with uh this next question, and some of you have answered this in your opening statements, but where are you employed? >> Oh, well, am I allowed to say I work at Fairport Central School District? >> Um I know. >> It's too late. It's late. Yeah. Um I I just in back in October uh a a

054good friend of mine runs the kitchen there and um with free lunch for everyone uh I'm at the biggest school, North Side Dudley. Um their production of lunches and breakfasts have tripled. Um and she needed help. Um, and and so I was like, "Okay, well, I'm I haven't worked in an actual like job where I had to fill out a W2," which are not anymore, by the way. There's something completely different um in 13 years. So, I was not ready to go back full-time, but she said, "We'll take you in whatever capacity we we can get you." And so, that is where I work at Dudley Northside, start slinging up chicken smackers. Um, and it's ridiculous actually how many I mean and just in my line and there's four. I serve like 215 lunches a

055day in my line and then there's four there's four lines. So that is where I work. So >> Dan, >> um I work for UPS. Uh this is my 30th year there. And I also work for um Asbury First United Methodist Church. I work in their I work in their office and I'm also a choir section leader. So that's my >> Thanks. >> I would say that was higher than I >> Well, you know. Yeah. But those are my >> Thank you, Dan. Katrina. >> Um I work at Christian Heritage. I am a direct support person. I work with a autistic person and I help him to fulfill the goals that he has. >> Awesome. Great. >> Okay. Carol, I am a personal not chef cook because I don't have any formal training. I actually

056now I'm sorry I don't have cards. I just Yeah, I really feel Yeah. >> I um menu plan, shop, cook, package, and deliver to my clients. Some of whom are who get away with not paying me like my daughter and some who actually pay me. >> I need your business card immediately. Hey, I should have brought some. Her stuff is really good, too. >> Jill, >> I am proudly employed by the North Rose Book Central School District as a special education teacher. I've primarily done fourth, fifth, and sixth grade. Um, I'd say mostly sixth grade. And right now, I'm a teacher on special assignment as an instructional coach, which is really cool because I get to work throughout the building with every teacher and every student in the building. So, I get to see a

057lot of different things and hear a lot of different things. And I am non-paid VP. Um, I'm her VP to the Laurel neighborhood where she's the mayor. I mayor neighborhood. >> Thank you. >> I've appointed her. >> Okay. Next question. We're beginning with Dan. >> In what ways would you like Eastern quite to grow as a community? I'm glad I'm last on that one. >> I It's I I would say I would just like the community it the idea that to to come together to be to really be a community, but I think we it's it's more that way now, I think, than it may have been 20 years ago. um there what I'm especially with the schools I'm seeing a lot a big uptick in in parent and family involvement in in different things.

058So I think there's there's a sort of a ground swell of let's come together as a as a community and um you know and the schools are a great hub for that. It's it's it's kind of the single hub uh that we have in Eastern Ronquite for for that. So I yeah, just to be more of a community. I think you've pointed out the like the diversity aspect of it. That's what got us here at the first place, too. So, um, yeah, it's it's just a place where >> we really can I think people find it to be friendly and open and welcoming and they they jump in and it's and that's so that's my vision that we could just keep going on that path. >> Thanks, Dan. Katrina >> and I agree with Dan.

059Um, it's funny. Our neighbor just moved in and she came over to introduce herself. Um, which was very nice and she was just so impressed about how nice everyone is and how the circle everyone's friendly, everyone's helpful. So, that's what I have all the time, you know. So, but just to see more um diversity, more coming together, more everyone not just saying, "Oh, someone else will handle it." No, guess what? let us come and handle it together. So, just more of that. But I think we are doing an awesome job >> um with all the different events that's going around. >> So, just just more just keep going in the positive path. >> Thanks, Katrina. Carol, >> I think there has been and it's fairly recent through I think a lot of the this work

060through community schools is now in all six of our buildings. Um, we've seen a huge uptick, not to use your word, sorry, I stole it, of parent involvement, which is awesome. It's absolutely awesome. And we've more or less become a clearing house for issues that the community might have, which I think is wonderful. Um, I think that helps support our students and helps support the district in the path that we're we want to move towards. >> Jill Ditto. Um, no, I think just continue to welcome everyone and continue to build our schools and our stronger connections and to continue to build our relationships with our community partners. Um, I don't know and I just love the academic growth that we're having in the perspective on career technical and educational training like in getting different trades

061involved. I really think we're growing our curriculum to help all students um academically as well as social emotionally. Um, I've seen such a great I'm gonna say uptick. Okay. I've seen an increase in um, you know, relationships with our families. Like I mean our Lego night was insane. I know you've done a lot for like glow dances and things like that. Like the participation in the there's some other people out there I got to give props to too that do so much PR for our district to bring families in whether it's at the PTA level or district level. So I think just continuing to build our community within around quite east around quite ranquay and hole is a great community and we just need to continue bu build off of that. >> Yeah. >> Um

062I mean in my personal community I would like more um houses to go up for sale so that families with kids can move in. That's how I would like that community. But as far as our Eastridge um East Ronda quite family community, I personally as a parent would like to see more parent involvement at individual events. it is always, you know, the same parents all the time and, you know, you leave those sign up geniuses open until someone else fills it and then you have to fill it. Um, but, uh, the partnership with community schools has been incredible. Um, we started these events, Lego night and all a couple years ago and they were not very well attended and that partnership really brought in a a particular piece to make it available for all families

063to attend. Um, so I would just like to see more of that in our community. Um, more events uh that that happen for everybody. >> Thanks Elena. >> Okay, next question has two parts. >> How do you stay committed to improvement personally and how can we strengthen that commitment at the board level? Do you want me to read it one more time, >> please? Okay. How do you stay committed to improvement personally and how can we strengthen that commitment at the board level? And Katrina, you'll start us off. >> Really? >> All right. Part one. Personally, um I do self-reflection. um to say what worked, what didn't work, what needs adjusting. I you know, it's a continuous um you learned this in business school. It's a continuous cycle. Once you evaluate everything, you go back

064over again. How can I get better? How can I do better? And trainings, um learning, talking to other board members. Carol has been mentoring me. She's awesome. Um thank you. You know, I can go drop in and talk to Mary anytime. So, you know, going the information is out there. we just have to seek it. And as a board, um, being the newest member on the board, I think they do a really, um, good job at it. Um, they have we have workshops, team buildings. I'm like, what? So, we get to know each other more than just sitting across from each other so that we can develop relationships so that we all can talk and have everyone express and actually talk. you can't get anything done if you're yelling or you're mad at each other.

065We have fun. We talk about the issues. Um so I just think to continue what we're doing to continue to um team build to get to know each other and not just see each other once every you know two weeks but we talk outside we exchange numbers. So that's how I think we can um do it boardwise and everyone personal. >> Thanks Katrina Carol. So education um is not my forte. It is not my field. Not having um come through school and learn learning it. I am willing to learn and grow right alongside our students and I and I have been for a very long time. I think refreshing is very important. So um every year I try to attend either a convention or um there is one particular um event in Albany that's really

066good that um focuses around and Washington focuses around advocacy um or sorry Albany focuses on um board membership and stewardship. So just that constant refreshing helps me both on a personal level and to continue forward in the board. Jill, >> you think I remember the question? Wow. Well, thank you so much credit. So, if I'm off topic or task, just redirect me. But, um, I first and foremost, I absolutely love serving on the board. Um, this is one of the best things I've ever done in my life, and I'm not even joking. So, like I just have an intrinsic personal like commitment to this, but um, I value our relationship with the Monroe County School Board Association. They have great workshops. say you they have so many committees that you can be a part of

067and what I like about that is you attend when you can attend and if you can't unfortunately you can't but everything's posted on the website so you can get jump on it and get it at a later time. Um New York State School Board Association also offers a ton of conferences whether they're in person or virtual which is great too. Um we've also had the opportunity to go to national schoolboard conventions as well. Um, I love to read. So, like I already have my summer reading stack starting to build. So, you know, some of that is obviously fun, pleasurable reading and some of it is more like leadership, you know, how to show appreciation in schools and things like that. I got a couple different topics sitting waiting for me this summer. Um, I don't

068know. I think while we bring it back to the board, I mean, I'm for the most part I'm energized. You know, sometimes I come in, it's been a long day. I'm a little tired, but again, I love what I do. you know, we come in, we joke around, we say hi. We bring our shared experiences from the events that we attended. Um, so that's one way that we kind of keep each other energized and rejuvenated. So if Carol goes to something, she tells us, if Katrina goes to something, she tells us, so we don't have to, you know, attend everything. I'm going to keep talking. You can put your sign up as I competition with some people in the audience to attend school events. So, you know, that's another way we kind of keep each

069other going. So, >> thanks, Jill. Elena, >> I don't know who your competition is. I think you're winning though because I see you all the time. >> Um, I am going to have a unique answer to this question obviously because I am not on the board like the rest of these guys. Um, you already heard I take my mental health walks. I mean, that's how I am committed to improving personally myself, but I feel like if I'm elected, I have a lot to learn. Katrina was already scaring me with all the tests and stuff and I'm a bad test taker. Um, but and then I'm going to come over to Jill's house. We're going to read these books together. So, I am committed to obviously learning everything there is to know. Um, and I have

070the unique perspective of having my kids in schools right now. you know, same with Joss and then same with Katrina where we can bring that practical classroom school community experience back to the board that we're learning from them. >> Dan, >> all of that, but I I would say too that um so often at every board meeting um almost every single one we have some sort of presentation from from staff uh you know and so about a new initiative or it could be about the community schools partnership or it could be whatever. But those the passion behind those those programs and those initiatives is contagious. And so it's pretty exciting to sit here and learn about the things that are that are happening. You know, most of which we we we know like it started

071maybe last year or something, but to get a progress report and say, "Wow, that's really working." >> Um or at least we think, you know, you never know, but but >> let's see what happens next year. And and there's been a I think that one more thing about the district that this a commitment over the last probably 15 years about you know staying the path a little bit because there was a lot of jumping around in programs and we've stayed the path a little bit more so in the last I know 10 or 15 years and it's it's there's a lot of great results and it's just really great to be uh inspired by you know hearing the results of that work. So that's that's you know there's the the Albany things in the national

072uh schoolboard association but right even just homegrown it's it's pretty inspiring. >> Okay, next question. We're going to begin with Carol. For those with current current students in the Eastern Quite schools, how does being a current parent inform your approach to serving on the board? Now in your case, you're going to have to talk about your student who has graduated. >> I actually ran um the year before Jamie graduated. And the reason I waited to run even though I had been approached before that is because I was intrinsically involved in Jaime's school life here, site base and all district base and just every committee and everything you can think of. So that's how I approached it. Can you repeat the question? Sorry, >> I went off. >> I was No, you didn't. I was thinking

073in my head change it a little bit for those of you who have students in the district and those who don't. >> Um, >> how does being a current parent inform your approach to serving on the board? >> So, currently I obviously don't have a student in the district, but what I do have is a daughter who lives in the city and who's a mental health counselor. So, I hear a lot about mental health issues and I've been bringing that back to the board. God, Stacy, how long? Probably 15 years. And so, I and I've seen the progression of how we approach mental health in the district and I'm so proud of that and so happy with it and I feel that it benefits our students and families so much. >> Excellent, Jill. >> Yes.

074Okay. So, I unfortunately don't have students in the district. However, I went to this district and I have loved ones in this district. So, first and foremost, I know I went to school a long time ago, but I would not trade my educational experience for anything. Like the connection that I had with some of my teachers has helped me tremendously. Like when I was in fourth grade or when I was in sixth grade or seventh grade and so on and so forth, I've maintained relationships with those teachers. They have helped me through some difficult times in my life, helped me academically as well. So, like I want our current students and future students to have similar experiences. Um, one of my favorite little guys in the whole entire world is at kindergarten at Hollandale Road

075School. So, I feel awful for that principal because she's got a helicopter, you know, school board member over there because I email, I'm immersed, I read the the newsletter, I go to every single event I possibly can. So I my approach is again the students, my love for the students, my love for this community and I just want everybody to be successful whether it's personally or academically and I just want everybody to thrive. >> Alina, can you say it again please? >> Sure. >> For those with current students in the Eastern Quite schools, how does being a current parent inform your approach to serving on the board? Well, they're that's really the whole reason why I decided to uh put my name in to be part a candidate. Um, you know, there is a certain

076perspective and information that you have having kids at the school um that you can bring to the board meetings that maybe they're not hearing because they're only just getting the piece from the kids that are presenting. Um, so I think that gives me uh definitely a a different perspective as knowing what's happening like right there at that moment at that day coming home this happened or this is going on or so I and I think that um being a parent obviously I care but about my kids but you know I care about my kids' friends and I care about um their friends and their parents and their families. amilies and so being able to support our community small and at large um is really important. >> Um yeah, my youngest graduated in 2020, the infamous

077class of 2020, but um but staying involved with the like with the marching band, so I like they're not really my kids, you know, but I but it's it's interesting to to chat with some of them and get get their perspective sometimes. I really do appreciate the perspective of of parents on the board, uh, who have kids in school because you get it unfiltered. >> Oh, yeah. >> You know, and and and I and I have a, you know, there's about three or four kids that live pretty close to me and so, you know, they know me and they'll, you know, I usually say, "How's it going?" Are you happy for a vacation coming up, you know, they get the four word answers, but that's okay. Um, but they're but they're it's honest. But I

078yeah, I I just really appreciate the fact that we we're lucky that we have have board members that have students in the school district because it's a different perspective. >> Thank you, Katrina. >> Um similar to Elena, he's the reason why I submitted my resume that night. Um saying, "Okay, let me go. Let me fix things." um you know um so but to be able to hear him his friends the different issues or things they have going on you know that can be a I'm the voice for them at the table so yeah it's more it's for the kids and not just our own kids it's for all the kids it's um kids from PTSA's kids from the soccer team you know because we hear things because of our kids >> so that makes us

079move or hey let's start a committee for this or hey let's go um check this out but then I can help other parents on how to handle things the correct way now that I'm on like well no start here go to Mr. sell it first then go here then go there you know before so yeah it's a impact >> thank you okay on to the next question Jill you will start us out what is your stance on recording board of education meetings and making those recordings easily accessible to the community and how would you implement that in a sustainable way many Easter parents find it challenging to attend meetings in person due to a busy work schedule and family schedule. So having reliable recordings would help ensure greater transparency and broader community participation. Um ensure

080greater transparency and broader community participation. That's a repeat there. >> Okay. >> Do you want me to repeat it? >> I I want you to just buy me some time, but no, I think I >> um honestly I I shouldn't be so I don't know. I I feel like I should sugar coat this more than I am. I have gone personally like back and forth on it. I think some good positive things that our board does or our district, excuse me, I should say, is our agendas are up online. Our meeting minutes are up online. Again, our buildings are posting a lot of information. Our PR person's posting posting a lot of information. So, um and obviously like I'm on the board, so I'm privy to a lot of information. So, I do appreciate the

081out the you know, the parental um standpoint on it. We've talked about it as a board many of times. I would say three or four times since I've been on the board. So, it is a board decision, not just a personal decision on my part. Um, I'm happy to revisit that conversation any time. And we do re revisit it a couple times a year, I want to say. Um, we encourage families to come to board meetings. We encourage families to um ask us questions at events and come to board meetings and ask questions or email questions and we do get back to them in a timely manner. Um there's also a financial consideration that we need to take into consideration when um filming board meetings. So if we did the implementation of that, honestly, I

082would have to reach out to district office, get some numbers, and also, you know, get a a system in place in order to do that. Um but I'm always open to that discussion. Thanks, Jill. >> Elena, well, I think I already answered it in number three. Um >> I'm for it. Like I said, I am one of those busy parents um who oftentimes can't make it because I am driving to and from or sitting in a parking lot waiting for a dance recital to be over, waiting in the long marching band line for pickup. So >> 920. >> Oh god. So um you know or making sure everyone has dinner before they go to all their various places. So having even just a recording, it doesn't even have to be live, so that someone could

083watch it later, um I think would be very really beneficial. I think it would uh be uh a great tool for more parents to be involved and to see what else is going on. >> Thanks, Elena. Dan, >> well, I agree with Jill. I I I think that there's a lot of information shared at the board meeting and and a video of it. I you know the the presentations that that we get you know that maybe that's that would be that's informative and and um I think that would be something to be shared some of the the the the sort of the nuts and bolts business part of the meeting is there it's it's not there there's not much there >> it's not musty TV I mean you know I I think because we and

084Katrina said this too we work really collaboratively so if we're not going to come to this table and have an argument um because that's just not going to happen. Not with the current people. I mean, Carol sometimes gets heated, but um but we let but we we welcome her comments. She doesn't get that heated. But I think that um the I think there are probably probably better ways that we can share some of the information that's that's that's discussed or presented at board meetings. That doesn't really mean you're recording it. Um, I I don't know. I don't I It's Yeah, it's not It's not even as exciting as Court TV. >> It's not Judge Judy. >> Yeah, it's not It's definitely not Judge Judy. So, I Yeah, I'm I'm on the fence. And again, as

085you know, as a sitting board member, it's it's a you know, it's a board decision, so it's not really my my choice, but I think we can probably do some better ways of sharing some stuff. >> Thanks, Dan. Katrina. >> Um, I don't have a problem with it being recorded. If they want to watch the John give us the budget >> the financial budget >> riveting >> get their >> by all means. >> That's right. >> Okay. Thanks Katrina Cheryl. >> So I know the last discussion we had at the board table. Um we asked Mrs. grow for numbers and they had we had to report during COVID so and it was uh put online and there was little to no um views of this at all. Um probably because as Dan said it's really

086we're not all that exciting. Um we can try but better and um there is that financial consideration. That being said, if if it's that important to parents and they want us to discuss it again, I'd be open to discussing it again. >> Thank you. Okay, on to the next question. Elena, you will be answering first. >> Okay. Last week, the Los Angeles Unified School District, which is the second largest school district in the US, unanimously passed a resolution to reduce and limit the use of screens in classrooms. Among other things, the resolution commits to eliminating the use of student digital devices in transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade. Prohibiting studentled access to YouTube and video streaming platforms. Establishing maximum daily and weekly screen time limits by grade level. Prohibiting device during lunch device use during

087lunch, recess, and passing periods in elementary and middle school. encouraging the use of paper, pen, and physical textbooks. Encouraging off-screen homework assignments, particularly for younger students. Our students in East Randquite deserve the same commitment as the students of LA USD. As a member of the East Randquite Central School District School Board, would you commit and advocate for meaningful policy changes in time for the 26 27 school year? If so, what aspect of reducing screens would be your priority? >> I think so. >> I need a drink. >> Okay. >> Um I'm the first to admit that as adult, I am of the I'm in the middle generation, right? I grew up there was no screen. Like you I I didn't even have an email till I was a sophomore in college, right? So, like I

088have the fortunate experience of growing up with technology. Um, and I'll be the first to admit that I'm like addicted to my phone. I even you can I you can ask them back there. I had to buy like a device to put it on to lock it so that I would stay off of it and be more present. Um, and I'm an adult, so I cannot even imagine what these poor little kids' minds are going through uh staring at screens all day. Um, I am I love that the LA like that's crazy that they did that. Um, I would support policy changes for sure. Um, there's something to be said of having a packet in front of you and looking for the answer um and asking asking questions. Um, just like there's studies that show

089that you are going to retain more if you're actually writing it down. you're going to comprehend more if you're not scrolling and reading, if you're actually following the words um along. Um and I I actually I don't know how you fix this because we're so deep into it. Um but I can just give you like my own personal experience just in Cole in seventh grade. uh he had a social studies test and he was trying to manipulate his uh scanned textbook page on OneNote which is not very user friendly and he couldn't find the answer and he was getting very frustrated so he just googled it. He found the answer and he got a four on his test but if I were to ask him the question right now did he really retain the information

090that he was supposed to be looking for? So uh I'm open to it. I don't know what it looks like um but I am definitely open to it. Yeah, I I don't know what exactly it would look like. I think there's we could work toward a balance. Um I I think there's a general acknowledgement that um that especially screen time, especially with with in the elementary classrooms, could could be less. Um it's not going away. And so I think it's better to, you know, strike a balance and look for ways to that it it, you know, instead of being allin on a on a tablet or a computer or whatever that it's something that that we go to something that's a more integrated approach, >> you know, I'm not a professional in that field. So

091I mean certainly we read studies and we read the news and and and hear about things like that. Um but that would be that would be a huge change. But certainly open to what's you know what would be best for the for the students. I think it has taken time um for you know the there's been a lot of studies but I think you know we're seeing more and more come out that you know yeah we could if we get kids on the playground you know or or doing you know physical activities uh manipulative activities that aren't a screen um that it's beneficial. >> Handwriting is probably never coming back but that's just you know >> my house it is. Thanks, >> Katrina. >> Um, similar to Elena and Dan, um, I would look at

092it. I'm little baffled because I see a balance. I see he just came home yesterday with packets where he has to draw what this means and math packets. So, I don't always see him on the laptop. So, um, I'm not understanding. So, I would like to see numbers. And then also look at it because the world applications everything now is on the computer. So if we take that away completely or how much are the kids going to be able to meet the challenges in the world um even now when we go to the doctors >> you don't check in with the person. You have to go on the computer and fill it out um just to check in. So you know there has to be a balance. I'm all for books and writing it down.

093We need to bring cursive back. We need to bring how to fill out a checkbook. Um, so I would definitely look at >> I mean these kids areated without >> Yeah. >> So I I agree with Dan and Katrina. I think there needs to be a balance, but we on the other hand we have a we were one of the first districts to have a onetoone initiative and we are very proud of it. Um, we have a 65% free and reduced price lunch here. At least I think that's the most current number. So a lot of children don't have access to technology and that need it going forward desperately because you are absolutely right. There is literally no job that I can think of that doesn't use technology and trust me this is coming from

094the woman who is not tech friendly and who still has a paper calendar. So I do believe in balance. I believe in they should be able to write as well as use technology. So I'd be open to looking at a balance, but just remembering where we came from and why. >> Thanks, Carol. Jill, >> um, yeah, Ditto again. No, I think I think the district holistically, and I apologize if I'm off base, has been making a mindful shift to have striking a better a better balance. I mean, there are amazing instructional purposes why we use technology. Um, and as far as I mean, as long I'm going to speak for my own classrooms. Like I've always offered a paper and pencil option to go along with technology because there's many reasons why people are on

095tech or shouldn't be on tech. I think New York State with their new self following policy, if you will, has helped um, students and schools make a shift to less screen time. Um, you know, that book Ancient Generation is very popular. So, I think that's also helped us be more mindful of screen time. Dan, I love your comment about recess because recess is so important for kids to get them off the screens, but again to Katrina's point too, like the real world uses technology, New York State testings on computers. So, I think it's important to strike a balance and educate our kids at home and at school on how to use appropriate technology, digital um digital digital, sorry, digital citizenship. So, I think we need to partnership with home and school to make sure we're

096using technology appropriately and limiting it to what meets the needs of our families. >> Thanks, Joe. Okay, next and final question. I more >> I don't even want to look over here. >> Okay, Dan, we're going to begin with you on this one. What do you believe the most pressing challenges are to students in the next four years? And how can the board address these challenges? I would say as a um current I mean currently looking at it from a from a a district standpoint, you know, the fact that we still don't have a state budget is makes it really hard for us to to do our job and and get a get a school budget together to present to the voters and fund the things that we want to fund. So that affects everything

097that we do, affects the programs that that we're able to implement or able to continue. Um I think that studentwise though I mean there's there's there are a lot of different things. I think we're ahead a bit ahead of the curve with uh community schools partnership in providing community um a sense of of belonging to this to the students that don't necessarily have it outside of the school. Um that's and then social emotional learning that's moving forward that that's going to be a huge it's just a huge part of what we have to do as a school that maybe was not part of school 15 years ago. So that's a huge challenge there. Um yeah, digital stuff I think is is is another one. I think we are on the cusp of some changes with

098that. Um uh yeah, I think I'm going to stop there. I I I sure I can come up with six more, but I'm going to need more than the 30 seconds. But that's I you know, it's it's again it's just being we we've managed uh and I think through through uh you know through through Mary and her staff especially, but we've managed to um really focus in on you know we need to provide a lot of of support for our kids and we're and we're we've kind of we haven't crested the wave but we're we're riding this wave of doing that and I I think we're doing okay and that's but that's going to be the biggest challenge. I think the probably number one moving forward and other things fall in line after that. She

099didn't give me the red sheet. There we go. >> I was waiting. >> I know. I was like so aggressive. >> Okay. Katrina, same question. >> Can you repeat? >> I sure can. >> Okay. What do you believe the most pressing challenges are to students in the next four years and how can the board address these challenges? Um I'm going to give one. Um I think um planning for the future and jobs. Um AI is everywhere and it's taking over jobs that um our students may be wanting to get into. >> Um so that is a concern even looking with my own person um for him to get a um work permit. I didn't realize the age went up from when I was younger. >> And so even but then there are not too many

100places that will hire um younger individuals because I do believe they need to get real life experience. They need to do hands-on so they can learn more. This get them out of digital >> so because they're at work hopefully pushing carts or ringing up um >> bagging groceries. >> Yes. Um so but I think the district um by bringing in the new where you don't have to go to college there's the um different career paths. Um so just keeping that moving forward open it up to more careers that they can start to learn about in school and actually getting the education so maybe once they graduate they can go on um and start pursuing their careers. >> Thanks Katrina. Carol, >> what Dan said, what Katrina said, also safety and security. I think um we're

101trying really hard to prevent issues and and problems and we've taken a step um in the right direction, I believe, with um the metal detectors that are going to go in place at Eastridge. And then one of my favorite things is, and I'll tell you how it impacts uh students directly, is unfunded, underfunded or mandates or unfair formulas for state aid. And it directly impacts students in that. If we don't get fair funding, we don't we're not able to continue the programs that students need unless we ask the district residents for more money. And a lot of times they don't like to do that. Um, so I think that's a huge issue. Um, particularly with the foundation aid formula in this district and although I should defer to you for this, the idea funding. >>

102Thanks, Carol. Jill. >> Um, yes. Uh, first and foremost, this is a great question, but also a challenging question to answer because I think there is some predictability in the challenges that we will face and then we always have our unknowns that we not we don't ever know what's coming. There's always curveballs. Um, but I think we it's been kind of spoken to a lot, but I think our career and technical education, our pathways, our changes with AI. So, I think how are we preparing our students for their next step? Um, I think we also will always have fiscal challenges with New York State funding and federal funding and grant funding. So, that is one of the priorities that our board does have. We are great advocates for our school, but I think funding to

103get all the resources our students and staff and school community needs. um is something that we always need to stay on top of. Um I don't know, sorry I have so many like random notes over here. I don't know. I think we just need to continue to build with our community partners to ensure like we are ready for these challenges that come and I think we need to continue develop our students social and emotional learning and it kind of goes hand inhand with security too to keep building our security and safety up for our students and school community. >> Thanks Joe Elena. Okay, there again I have the different position of answering this question just as a parent and not as a non a non-board member so I don't know the ins and outs of

104funding aid or idea don't worry okay um so for me personally I and I have uh a teenage a teenager right and he does also want to get a job too um maybe you guys can cut lawns together or something um but uh and uh a a a soon to be sixth grader. What I'm seeing is uh social issues. And I think that that comes because they are allowed to be on their laptops at lunchtime instead of having to talk to each other. And so they're not creating those real experiences where they're learning how to socialize with their peers. Um and uh to go with the anxious generation, there's another book called The Tech Exit, which really, you know, hammers home the fact that screen, you know, screens during recess and screens during lunch when

105they are should be developing socially aid, they're not because they're choosing to screen. Um, but our partnership with community schools and helping to um, teach social emotional skills, I I've seen it firsthand how it's really helping the kids communicate with each other. Um, so I think if we can figure out how to get these kids, you know, social and and we're in this tough position with co and, you know, these little these kids that they didn't know anything except watching a show because mom and dad were at work. Um but that coupled with more community partners like community schools teaching them the social emotional skills will hopefully um help them you know start to engage with each other again. >> Thanks Elena. Okay as promised we have reached the end of the question and answer

106uh portion of the program. So I want to thank each one of you for your thoughtful responses. They were really incredible. So, thank you for sharing what you shared about yourselves and your views. So, we're going to move into closing statements. Each candidate will now have up to two minutes to make their closing statement. And the statements will be given in ballot order. So, Carol, you will start us out. Well, I wanted to say thank you to you, Amy Thomas from Monroe County School Boards Association for moderating tonight. All of you for coming out to support us and the district and PTA for giving us this opportunity. And I wanted to thank my fellow candidates for being willing to serve our community. I believe in the power of public education and in particular the goal

107of Eastern White Central School District to encourage each student to learn and grow. I appreciate the community for allowing me to represent them and advocate for them and I hope you'll allow me to continue to do so. Please vote yes for the budget. Please consider voting for me, Carol Watt. I'm number one on the ballot. >> Thank you. Thanks, Carol. Jill in our hearts. >> A thank you for the opportunity a to share my thoughts on board service and for taking the time to be an informed border and for your thoughtful questions. Once again, I'm seeking to continue serving on the board because I remain deeply committed to the students, families, and community we serve. Continuing my service will allow me to build on relationships, knowledge, and perspective I've gained while maintaining a consistent focus

108on the district's vision, and long-term su success. Most importantly, I will ensure that the students remain at the center of every decision. I'm committed to listening, learning, and leading with integrity so that Eastern Ronquait continues to provide meaningful learning experiences that prepare all students for success now in the future. The 2627 budget includes just over a million dollar reduction, maintaining quality programs and smaller class sizes, an additional section of full day prek, and continuing free school supplies and access to musical instruments. In addition, there's a second proposition to create an equipment reserve fund to begin saving for replacement replacement equipment. And lastly, a third proposition to reduce the number of school board members from 9 to 7. Please vote on May 19th in support of our budget. And for me, Jill Richie, thank you. >>

109Thanks, Jill. >> Okay. Well, I totally didn't write a closing statement because when I was going through my notes, my son came home uh soaking wet, mad from his field trip, and I had to put that fire out. So, um, thank you for moderating these questions. I'm just lucky enough to be sitting up here with these guys, um, and for giving me the opportunity to, uh, express my ideas and opinions. Um, I I I'm really excited about the opportunity to work with the board, not just to fix something because our district isn't broken. In fact, it's really really great and um, I wouldn't live anywhere else. Um, so I would really be honored to serve on the board with these guys. Um, so yeah, vote for me on May 19th. >> Thank you. >> Thanks,

110Elena, Dan. >> Well, thank you, Amy. Thank you to all the people who came out tonight. I think the biggest crowd I've seen here was just great. Uh, thank you to my fellow candidates. It's great. It's a it's a true honor to serve on the board. Um, but really, it's about uh just all of us. We're just better together, right? And so, the more we work together to come together as a community, uh, that really makes around the quake the best. So, yes, vote yes. Just vote yes. And then you can >> I mean I guess I'm four but that I don't whatever you know uh but it really thank you because it's a great opportunity to have this and and and and it's been a good evening. >> Thanks Dan >> Katrina. >> Um

111just want to say thank you for the opportunity to be here. Elena stole mine. Um it's awesome to be up here with everyone to be considered. Um just know I'm here. I'm dedicated. I'm approachable. I'm ready to work hard for our district. um off of parents rights. So I'm telling you just to go vote. Um, >> just go out in your right, >> say, >> Exercise your right. Come out, >> pick. >> You know, it doesn't have to be five. I don't just come out, elect. Because everyone at this table is great. Everything I heard, everyone loves Easter quite. So, and we all put the students first. So, >> thanks Katrina. >> And my thanks to all of you. Once again, this does conclude our program for this evening, but I do thank each and

112every one of you and I wish you all luck during this upcoming vote. With that, I'd just like to remind everyone out in our community here in East Randquite that the budget vote and schoolboard election is Tuesday, May 19th from 6:00 a.m. to 900 pm at the Eastridge High School. Thank you all. Have a great evening. Thank you.