To the Editor:
As a well-informed voter in the Guilderland Central School District, I wholeheartedly support and advocate for Nina Kaplan’s candidacy for the GCSD School Board position.

Having known Nina for over a decade, on both a professional and personal level, I can confidently attest to her outstanding qualifications and deep commitment to our children and the school community.

Nina possesses a remarkable ability to empathize and connect with all members of our community, a trait that I have personally witnessed. As the executive director of an education program, I have had to call on Nina to help on multiple occasions, and she has always been ready and willing to support me and the students.

Nina is a dedicated and empathic advocate, who consistently demonstrates compassion and advocacy in all her endeavors.

Nina is a fierce advocate for justice and fairness for all. She has been teaching social studies at the South Colonie School District for 21 years, and she also serves as a building representative for the South Colonie Teachers Association).

I work within the same building of an Early Childhood Education Center, where Nina serves as the chairwoman of the committee. I have observed Nina advocate for all children to receive essential special-education services, demonstrating her understanding of the diverse needs of students and families within our district.

I am also aware of Nina's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Guilderland school district. She serves on the steering committee for the Guilderland School District DEI Committee as well as on the research subcommittee, and has been instrumental in the initiatives and contributions of the efforts to fulfill a positive and inclusive school district.

Knowing that she serves on this committee gives me a sense of security for my own daughter who attends Guilderland High School. Nina is always willing to work hard for people, and I have witnessed this personally.

Additionally, Nina is involved with the New York State Education Department Office of Assessment. Her experiences will be an asset to the school district by providing insight into the guidelines, directives, and new initiatives set forth by the NYSED.

In all of her endeavors, Nina has demonstrated a commitment to leadership and collaboration. Nina is a true advocate, and she thrives on assisting students and others with achieving their goals through open and balanced communication.

I firmly believe that Nina’s service on the school board would be characterized by integrity, compassion, and a genuine desire to serve the community. Therefore, I urge my fellow voters to join me in supporting Nina Kaplan’s candidacy on May 21, 2024.

Together, let’s elect a dedicated and qualified individual who will work tirelessly to ensure the success and well-being of all our children.

Ruth Malka

Guilderland