DeLauter said that one issue that North Bellmore’s board would tackle in 2013-14 is standardized testing. The board must unite with others across the state to pressure elected officials not to use student test scores to evaluate teachers, she said, adding that she and her fellow trustees should do all they can to ensure that students have time to focus on all projects and assignments.

DeLauter said she hoped the unique situation of a tie showed community members that they should not take their right to vote for granted.

“That’s one of the most wonderful rights we have as citizens of the United States,” she said. “I think people need to realize that every vote does count.”