Thursday, October 1, 2026
The League of Women Voters, and non-partisan, non-political group, acted as moderates for the East Rockaway School District’s Meet the Candidates Night held on April 31 in the newly renovated Harry Bunting Auditorium at the high school.
Pat Sympson moderated, and Nancy Rosenthal acted as the timekeeper.
Board president Kristin Ochtera and Patti Nicoletti are running to keep their seats. They are being challenger by newcomers Patrick Gillespie and Keith Gamache.
Next week, the Herald will be running broader profiles of the candidates. Below are just a few highlights from the event:
Q: What do you think is the most important responsibility as a board member?
Patrick Gillespie: The kids depend on us that their education is not only good enough for the real world, but for college-level courses or any challenges …I also believe that there is a responsibility to the residents that their taxes allow them to live in East Rockaway … a rapport with administrators, teachers, parents and students.
Kristin Ochtera: It is the board’s job to set the policy that allows for their education to grow … nothing can happen without the stability … understanding that the programs they started with in kindergarten will be there in high school … to provide growth and team-building experience.
Patti Nicoletti: If you were to look at the New York State mandates, they will say that we [have] a balanced budget ... and interact with the community … but the most important thing is a board members’ ability to reason and keep their focus … to be fiscal prudent and [create] good policy…
Keith Gamache: Policy is very important, but for me, the quality of education is contingent on funding … we have to be fiscally responsible, but [not] shortchange our students … the board also is selecting a new superintendent … if elected, I would take great pride in being a part of hiring a [quality] person.
Q: What do you think is the best
thing about the East Rockaway School District?
PG: The small class size, it’s a safe community, with people working together to make sure our kids have a good education.
KO: Bar none, the best thing about our schools is that everyone has heart. There is a sense of caring in this community … you are never turned away.
