In the other race for trustee, Walker — who was not available to answer questions before the Herald went to press — is facing first-time challenger Sims, a securities regulator. Sims said he believes his experience in analyzing a system and assuring that a desired outcome results from it would help the school district because it would help maintain quality educational programs — which he said is a priority of his — in a cost-effective and creative way. He also said that he wants to foster more community involvement and support.

In the only race for a trustee seat on the Franklin Square board — a seat that also represents the district on the Sewanhaka Central High School board — 18-year member Jean Fichtl is being challenged by first-time candidate Joe Lewinger, a high school teacher and athletic director. Fichtl said that the most important issues facing the district are funding and keeping current educational programs intact. She said she believes her good relations with legislators are very helpful when it comes to achieving the board’s goals, as are her experience and her regular attendance at training sessions.

Fichtl has also previously served as Sewanhaka’s board president.

Lewinger said he wants to bridge the gap between the board and the community, and would like to expand the board’s outreach using social media. One of the biggest issues, he said, is the community’s lack of understanding of the Common Core curriculum and educational requirements. He said he believes his experience as an educator and a parent would provide a unique perspective for the board.

“As a parent, I know what it’s like,” he said of the desire for increased communication from the board. He added that he believes he can see both sides of an issue, thanks to the experiences of his children, while being mindful of the board’s objectives.