Guilderland board interviews four candidates to fill vacant seat; appointment set for Oct. 1

The Guilderland Central School District held a special meeting on Sept. 24 to interview four candidates for a board seat left vacant by the Sept. 11 resignation of Judy Slack. The board said the appointed term would begin Oct. 1, 2024, and run through May 20, 2025, and that candidates would be informed of interview outcomes within a day or two.

Student moderators Sophia Parker and Emily Nelligan ran the interviews under a timed format, and the board’s chair said the meeting would move into an executive session immediately after the public interviews to discuss the candidates. The board announced it intends to appoint a successful candidate at its Oct. 1 meeting.

Candidates introduced themselves and described their backgrounds and priorities. Meredith Briere emphasized fiscal oversight, grant-seeking and inclusive practices. Matteo Dunnegan said civic service and protecting educational opportunity motivated his candidacy. Mr. O’Brien (a science teacher) highlighted teacher development, data privacy and state policy changes; Mr. Stapleton described a two-decade career in educator preparation and said listening and partnership would guide his service.

The public portion concluded after candidates answered a set of prepared questions; the board then asked for an official motion to adjourn, which passed 6–0. The board moved to executive session to discuss the interviews, with an appointment to be made publicly on Oct. 1.

Next steps: the board will complete its internal deliberations in executive session and announce its appointment at the Oct. 1 meeting as stated.