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Five candidates vie for three seats on RCS Board of Education; incumbents stress continuity, challengers stress teacher support
Summary
Five candidates — three incumbents and two challengers — introduced themselves at the RCS Board meeting. Incumbents emphasized continuity and governance stability as the district prepares for superintendent transition; challengers emphasized teacher support, classroom experience and facilities priorities.
Five candidates for three open seats on the Ravena‑Coeymans‑Selkirk Board of Education introduced themselves at the May 12 meeting and outlined priorities ahead of the election.
Mike Dio, the board president and an incumbent, said he is seeking reelection to provide “stability, continuity, and steady governance” as the district prepares for new superintendent leadership. Dio told listeners the board has “clarified our district vision and mission, defined goals, and have prepared for long term change.”
Incumbent Ed Benedetti said he ran three years ago on “Students First, Staff Always, and Taxpayers’ Trust” and emphasized communication, trust and transparency. He said board members must ask “tough but fair” questions and focus on how policies will be implemented in classrooms.
Challengers and other candidates described varied motivations: Dave Kramer, a wildlife biologist by training, framed his candidacy around supporting teachers and said “excellent teachers produce excellent students.” Jenny Molino, a special‑education preschool teacher and incumbent candidate, said she wants to ensure staff have “support and supplies” and that policy is implemented with equity. Kelly (Matty) Kellyhauer, a 19‑year‑old recent high‑school graduate and student‑leader on his college campus, said he is focused on classroom conditions such as air conditioning, seating and reducing phone distractions for students.
Why it matters: Three seats are open on a nine‑member board; board composition affects district policy, budget oversight and superintendent oversight. The candidates’ remarks focused on continuity, student supports, teacher engagement and facilities improvements.
What was decided: This meeting served as candidate introductions; no board election action occurred. The district announced there are three open seats and voters will decide in the scheduled school election.
Ending: Candidates asked for community support; the board encouraged voters to participate in the May 20 vote on the budget and elected positions.
