School Board Profiles: Dr. Brian Gotchel

Editor's note: Due to the large number of candidates in this year's school board election, we'll run a pair of candidate profiles each day through Sunday. Each candidate was asked to provide a biography and answer a set of questions.

On Monday, we'll provide a final wrap-up of the school budget and provide links to all candidate profiles.

Dr. Brian Gotchel is a 47-year resident who, with his wife Karen and children, Julie, Kyle and Bailey, has made his home in West Deptford.

Brian graduated from West Deptford High School in 1981 and went on to earn his degree in biology from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA. He earned his doctorate from the College of Podiatric Medicine & Surgery in Des Moines, IA, as class president, and completed his surgical residency at Kennedy Health System. He has been a podiatrist in West Deptford for over 20 years.

As a member of the Board of Education for the past several years, Brian brings with him an advanced level of knowledge and understanding on how to tackle tough school issues. He continually strives to balance taxpayer concerns with important educational decisions and always faces these challenges with fairness and integrity.

Along with his school board responsibilities, Brian is an assistant coach for West Deptford Township Juniors Football and assists in coaching with Township Lacrosse at the 5/6 level.

1. What’s your main reason for running this year?

I’m running to assure that our kids continue to get a quality education and that the taxpayer’s voice is always heard.

2. If elected, what, if any, changes would you look to make?

West Deptford has a fine education system that doesn’t need to be drastically changed. The concern comes with budgetary constraints and making sure that the educational process stays intact.

3. What do you think you bring to the board, in terms of experience and viewpoint?

I have served on the school board for several years. I bring with me the understanding of knowing what can be changed and what cannot be changed–where we can save money and where we can’t. I am confident that my viewpoint and concerns are consistent with the community. 

4. What do you think is the most important issue facing the West Deptford school district?

This is almost an impossible question to answer. There never is and never will be an issue that is “most’ important.  I do know that several issues that are always of public concern include future funding, safety, impact on taxpayers and education. 

5. Why should voters choose you?

I am committed to this position and making sure that issues are handled fairly and with integrity. I come with realistic expectations and no planned agenda.