Two candidates interviewed for Keystone Central Region 8 vacancy; board schedules deliberation and vote

The Keystone Central School District held interviews for two candidates seeking appointment to the Region 8 school board vacancy. The candidates named by the board were Lou Sich and Richard (Rich) Wyckoff, and each answered a series of structured questions about teamwork, curriculum, budgeting, student outcomes and governance.

Lou Sich described leadership roles in his church council and management experience, and emphasized fiscal scrutiny in budgeting work. He said his priorities include both academic quality and student safety, stating, "Education is important. But above all, these parents need to know that their children are safe inside these walls before they even get to these walls."

Richard Wyckoff described long experience in education and community projects, including work on curriculum teams, grant collaborations and budget oversight. He emphasized listening and community connections as strengths he would bring to the board: "I would be listening to you and just for the fun of it hearing how you use your words because I believe... words are that important." Both candidates affirmed they had no scheduling conflicts with regular board meetings and committee times as described by the panel.

No formal vote or appointment occurred during the interview meeting. The presiding official adjourned the session and announced a second meeting at 06:00 for board deliberation and a vote on the Region 8 appointment(s).