Malverne trustee candidate, Phyllis M. Tinsley

Phyllis M. Tinsley, an 18-year Lakeview resident, is running unopposed to take Jack Tulley’s seat on the Malverne School Board.

Why are you running?

I’m running to bring my leadership and organizational skills, and my school spirit to the school district. I will be a team player and work with other board trustees to make sound decisions and a positive change for the children, the teachers, the administrators and the community. I would like to continue to make the district more successful and make sure all the kids are equipped with the education that they need to have. I'm also looking to have more parents involved, more get parents to speak out on issues pertaining to the school district and how we could be a sound body that creates sound resolutions.

What needs to be improved and/or changed in the school district?

At this point in time, the school district is doing extremely well. I want to maintain the progress, but am also looking to add more curricula to the school district. I also want to make sure kids could supply their own input regarding their coursework.

What volunteer positions have you held?

I've been a volunteer with Girl Scout Troop 2005 for 20 years. Eleven of those years were as a Girl Scout leader. I’m also a member of the NAACP, where I work with the youth program, ACT-SO. I’m also the fundraising co-chair for my sorority Delta Sigma Theta, where we do extensive work with the Democratic Club in Queens. I’m also involved in the Malverne MAC Center — a non-profit organization that provides morning and after school programs for school district children.

Any other community involvement?

I was honored by the school district with the Martin Luther King Humanitarian Award in 2015. Over the past 18 years, I’ve been involved in all the PTA’s, the Malverne Supervisory Council, the Music Parents, volleyball, soccer, fundraising, and volunteering for the Malverne 5K run. I’m also a supporter for the coaches whenever they need something done. I am that person who makes sure things happen for the kids. I'm all about being an advocate for the kids.

What experience do you have that pertains to this job?

It definitely the leadership skills, the teamwork, being able to make a sound decision, my management skills, and to give the board a view they may not understand.

Why should people vote for you?

The experience I've had with the school district over the past 18 years has given me a better view of the school district itself. I'd like to see how our money is spent. I would like to hear from the community, the youth, the administrators, the teachers and the trustees. Most importantly, I want to make sure the kids are receiving a fulfilling and successful education.