What they're thinking: School board candidates answer questions

Question: Why do you want to be a member of the school board and what will be your top priorities if elected?

David Meoli: I am running because I really need the second salary (just kidding…). As a resident of Rockville Centre for over 20 years and an educator for over 30 years, I know the village, the school system, and what it means to provide a first rate education to every one of our children in the 21st century. I believe I have the knowledge, the passion and the breadth of educational experience necessary to help make our historically strong school district even more efficient and effective. My top priorities will be to insist on updating curriculum, instruction and assessment, to strengthen staffing and staff development practices and to make financial priorities that build long term institutional capacity and that provide multiple opportunities for success for every child.

John O'Shea: I would like to become a member of the Rockville Centre Board of Education because I want to protect and maintain my children’s education. I am the father of four boys whose education is of the utmost importance to me. I want all our children to have the benefit of the great education that is currently afforded them, but always seems to be under assault at budget time. If elected, my top priority will be to find the waste in our school district and translate that into savings for the taxpayer. I would propose that the board approve the hire of an efficiency company to review every aspect of the school district.  With that information in hand, I feel secure that next year’s budget talks will take on a whole new feeling. 

Gregg Spaulding: I want to insure that our children continue to receive the quality of education that they receive today. Our children need to become strong, educated independent adults as they venture out into the world during these difficult economic times. My top priorities will be to familiarize myself with all levels of education and the needs of each building in the district so I can make informed decisions. I will be a visible and accessible board member, visiting all of our schools regularly, and representing our school district within the community.