Joseph J Rooney, Abington School Director Candidate

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA — The Nov. 7 general election is growing nearer.

And with that in mind, Patch is looking to help voters be better informed on candidates on the ballot.

Name: Joseph J Rooney
Age: 65
Sex: M
Location/Town: Ardsley, PA
Position Sought: Abington School Director
Party: GOP
Campaign website/social media: <https://atrogop.org/2023-abington-school-director-candidates/> <https://joerooneyforabington.com/index.html>

Why are you seeking a position in local government?
There is no common sense in our school district right now. Abington School District needs to diversify the views and perspectives on the school board. Right now, there are no critical questions asked, ever. Our kids education is suffering. Our current school directors do not prepare for the meetings. The absentee rate for school directors at meetings is embarrassing. Our district budget is exploding, but test scores and education of our kids is not improving.

What are your qualifications/experience?
I am a regular attendee at our school board meetings and have been for years. I do my best to understand the budget, how it affects our residents and what effect it has on our students' test scores. School discipline has emerged as a crucial issue in our district. If the administration does not maintain discipline, then all our kids suffer the consequences.

What are three main issues you plan to take on in office?
We have a very simple, common-sense plan: 1. Make up for the lost education from when the schools closed, 2. Keep our schools open, 3. Educate don't indoctrinate, 4. Promote the Parents' Bill of Rights. 5. Get our district's budget back under control.

Who are elected official or political/community leaders who inspire you?
State Rep Donna Scheuren - as Souderton school director, she insisted that the district keep their schools open - they did!

What are some other personal information details you want voters to know about you ahead of the election?
I grew up here, served in the USMC and came back home after 31 years with my wife and 5 kids. My travels around the world showed me how wonderful life is in Abington Twp compared to the rest of the world! I was a USMC fighter pilot, I retired as a Delta Air Lines Capt after 30 years, my wife and I have 5 kids, two of whom are serving our great country right now in the USN. I am an active member in my community and our parish: Queen of Peace. We have been active in our kids' schools, sports, scouts and education.