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Somers candidates emphasize multiple pathways, reading recovery and IB programs
Summary
Candidates discussed sustaining advanced programs (IB, AP, PLTW), improving foundational reading through the 'science of reading' and preserving multiple pathways for students as the district recovers from COVID‑era learning disruptions.
Candidates at the Somers Central School District forum described academic priorities that include maintaining multiple pathways, expanding teacher professional development and continuing district efforts to raise reading proficiency after the COVID era.
Several candidates voiced support for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the Middle Years Programme (MYP). “The IB diploma program is wonderful,” a candidate said, adding that many students mix IB and AP classes. Candidates described MYP as professional development‑driven classroom practices that support differentiated instruction and stronger student writing.
Panelists also cited the district’s work to address pandemic‑era declines in early literacy. Amanda Kandel said the district has prioritized the ‘‘science of reading’’ and teacher training to accelerate recovery; she noted the district aimed to meet state expectations ahead of the statewide deadline. Candidates repeatedly framed success as broader than test scores: Rosalind Gallino said participation and community engagement — “more people in our community attending board meetings and feeling that their voice was heard” — are measures of success, while Chadwick Olson said, “The number 1 measure of success is the outcome for our students.”
Speakers named existing programs and resources they supported: IB diploma, middle years program, Advanced Placement (AP), Project Lead The Way (PLTW), BOCES partnerships and tiered special‑education supports. Several candidates urged continued investment in teacher professional development to support differentiation so that students who need acceleration or remediation can both be served.
Discussion was advisory and programmatic; no policy changes were proposed at the forum. Candidates urged voters to review program materials on the district website and to weigh program continuity in upcoming board elections.
