Rydal-Meadowbrook Civic Association

Candidate for Abington Board of School Directors

Download & print PDF with an overview of all candidates, individual responses and questions to be asked at the Forum on October 27, 2011. RMCA and our co-hosts are pleased to provide this candidate an opportunity to present qualifications and priorities. These are the opinions of the candidate and RMCA does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy of the content or typographic errors: 

In your view, what function does the Board of School Directors provide in the School District?
The function of the Board of School Directors should be to establish goals for the school district, oversee the district’s financial matters (including monitoring expenditures on behalf of the taxpayers), devise policies for school operations, and ensure achievement standards are met.

What role do you envision for yourself on the Board of School Directors? What experience do you bring to the position and what do you want to accomplish?
Since I would be new to the school board, the initial role I envision for myself is one of watching, listening, and learning as much as possible. My academic and professional background is different from that of any other board member or candidate. My experience is very strong in finance and accounting, so I would hope to be especially helpful in the area of financial oversight. Also, I work in the field of Human Resources (I’m an executive recruiter), so I would bring a unique perspective in the area of organizational management.

The School District has a budget of $130 million. What are your funding priorities over the next four years?
My funding priorities are: supporting academic excellence, attracting and retaining the very best teachers possible, technology (both infrastructure and educational tools), and athletics and other extra-curricular activities.

RMCA is co-hosting the Forum with the Abington Cheltenham Jenkintown League of Women Voters and Abington Parent Council (PTA & PTOs).

References and Links  
Strategic Plan Mid-point Review 
2011 Budget Summary
Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators White Paper 
Teachers' Agreement 
Memo on Rights and Responsibility of Students 
Board Communications