Gates Chili School Board candidates share community commitments and educational goals

The Gates Chili Central School District held its Meet the Candidates Night on May 2, 2025, providing an opportunity for community members to hear from candidates vying for positions on the Board of Education. The event began with opening statements from the candidates, followed by a question-and-answer session.

Ann Marie Vinchela, a candidate and current board member, shared her personal journey, highlighting her deep involvement in the school community since moving to Gates 15 years ago. She emphasized her commitment to enhancing the parent-teacher organization at Walt Disney Elementary School, where she has implemented new fundraising initiatives and organized community events. Vinchela expressed her dedication to being a positive force in the district and her desire to continue serving on the board.

Dr. Richards, another candidate, introduced herself as a long-time resident and former parent of Gates Chili graduates. She spoke about her commitment to prioritizing students' educational needs and supporting staff and families. Dr. Richards highlighted her experience as a board member and her focus on making Gates Chili a top choice for education.

The meeting transitioned to the question-and-answer segment, where candidates were asked about the strengths they would bring to the Board of Education. Ms. Sierbanovsky noted her diverse perspectives as a parent, public education employee, and spouse of a teacher, emphasizing her understanding of the impact of board decisions on the community. She also highlighted her experience in supporting professional learning initiatives and her commitment to family engagement.

Ms. Manchulla discussed her financial background, including her education in business management and accounting, and her experience as a tax auditor. She expressed her dedication to the district and her active participation in community activities, underscoring the importance of budget transparency and community involvement.

Dr. Richards reiterated her educational background and experience as a school counselor and administrator, emphasizing the importance of communication and relationship-building among board members and with the community.

The event concluded with a reminder that the meeting was recorded and would be available for playback, allowing community members to engage with the candidates' discussions and insights. Overall, the evening showcased the candidates' commitment to the Gates Chili community and their vision for the future of the district.