Greece school board candidates stress safety, academic recovery and support for students with diverse needs

Seven candidates for seats on the Greece Central School District Board of Education appeared at a public forum May 20 at the district Transportation and Support Service Facility to discuss school safety, student achievement and services for students with disabilities and English language learners ahead of the district election.

Candidates said safety and academic performance are top priorities for the district. “Safety within our schools must be improved to address violence,” said Shauna Smith, a candidate and parent. Several candidates linked classroom disruption and student behavior to lost instructional time and urged more mental-health and behavioral supports.

The discussion centered on several recurring themes: increasing resources for social-emotional and mental-health services in buildings, hiring and retaining teachers and support staff, and boosting foundational literacy and math skills. Mark Buenavierio, who has served on the board, cited state test results and said, “We lag well behind the state average in performance with respect to ELA, literacy and math.” He noted that, according to the New York State Education Department, a large share of K–8 students in the district are below grade level in reading and math.

Candidates described different approaches to improving classroom conditions. Jenny LaPlaca said student achievement includes recognizing incremental gains and encouraging participation across activities; Anna Maria Falzerano emphasized wraparound supports and community-school partnerships to address students’ social-emotional needs; and Megan Farah focused on the budgetary and advocacy work needed to sustain services for English learners and students with individualized education plans.

Several candidates raised staffing shortages as a structural problem. “If you don't have the staff to teach your kids, or you don't have the proper teachers, then you're gonna have burnout,” said a candidate during the forum, noting bus drivers, teachers and other staff shortages affect daily operations and student learning.

On questions about programs tied to diversity, equity and inclusion, candidates generally said the district should continue to serve English language learners and students with special needs. One candidate cited federal protections when addressing parental concerns about access to services, and others urged continued advocacy for state and federal funding to support mandated services.

The New York State Board of Regents' interest in alternative pathways for academic credit — including career and technical education, early college and other demonstrations of student learning — drew broad support. Candidates said multiple pathways can help students who are not on a traditional college track, while several speakers emphasized the need to ensure alternative pathways demonstrate equivalent knowledge and rigor.

On the role of a board member, candidates said success means focusing on student achievement and supporting teachers while working collaboratively across a nine-member board. Several candidates pledged to visit buildings, listen to stakeholders and take part in committees to better inform decisions.

The forum included a read statement from Monica Seaman, who said she was unable to attend in person. Candidates encouraged voters to participate in the May 20 election.

Votes and formal board actions were not part of the forum; the event was a candidate Q&A and did not produce resolutions or motions.