Incumbent, newcomer run for North Merrick school board seats

Jonathan Butler

Age: 59

North Merrick resident for: 33 years

Family: Wife, Cheryl; children Paige and Adam

Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education; master’s degree in special education; professional diploma in educational administration and supervision

Career: New York City Department of Education employee for 33 years, now retired

Involvement in school district: North Merrick School District Board of Education member since 1996; PTA Council of North Merrick member; Camp Avenue, Fayette and Old Mill Road PTAs member; North Merrick SEPTA member

Other: Past president, Merrick Kiwanis Club; North and Central Merrick Civic Association member 

Editor’s note: Jonathan Butler declined to speak with the Herald Life.

Lisa Katz

Age: 43

North Merrick resident for: 15 years

Family: Husband, Glen; children, Justin, Olivia and Jessica

Education: Bachelor’s degree in English literature, Hofstra University

Career: 11-year Verizon Communications employee in various support roles; now a homemaker

Involvement in school district: 2014 Citizens Budget Advisory Committee member 

1. What are your qualifications to serve on the Board of Education? 

As a parent I understand the value of a quality education. Over the past year I have advocated for our children’s right to privacy and against the flawed implementation of the Common Core Standards by testifying at the State Assembly hearing.

2. If you are elected, what will be your top goals for your term? In what areas will you focus?

I plan on staying vigilant and keeping an eye on the data that is required to be shared with the State Education Department. Our children’s privacy is a top priority.