To the Editor:

I am writing to remind the community of the upcoming school budget vote and the election of one open seat to the school board of education on May 15.

This year, the voters in the Berne-Knox-Westerlo district have a choice between two candidates vying for the one open seat. This letter is to inform the community that this election is about stability and how it plays a vital role in helping to move our district forward.

Over the past 15 years, our district has turned over 33 administrators (superintendents, principals, business administrators, and interims). This high turnover has caused many obstacles for BKW to maintain any kind of stability, vision, or focus.

Our current superintendent has seen 11 different board of education members as he enters his third year at BKW. Lillian Sisson-Chrysler is running to maintain her seat on the school board to help provide the stability that our district desperately needs to keep pushing the school’s vision and goals forward.

I hope that all of you will support her in her desire to do the work that is needed to improve the experience for the children in our community. She is not only an advocate for kids but also for the taxpayers as she recognizes the importance of fiscal responsibility and stability.

What I find so impressive about Lillian is that she wants to make sure that the school regains the pride and spirit that it once had when she walked the halls as a student herself. She understands how important it is for all to value the investment we make in the school and the children that attend.

Although we may disagree at times, I appreciate her perspective and willingness to work with the other members of the board to find a way to work together and make positive change for all of the stakeholders.

There have been many accomplishments made within the school over her past three years on the board and her voice and vote has been vital in moving the district forward. Electing her will allow the district to continue to strive for excellence and most importantly, will give our children the tools and skills to compete in today’s complex world.

Matthew Tedeschi

Westerlo

Editor’s note: Matthew Tedeschi is the president of the Berne-Knox-Westerlo School Board.