Central Bucks School Board Elections

As the May 17 primary election nears, some of the biggest contests to watch are the races for the Central Bucks School Board.

Six seats are up for election this year on the 9-seat board. Three of those incumbents are stepping down, while the remaining three - including the censured representative from Buckingham - are seeking re-election. One incumbent, Jerel Wohl in Region 4, is unopposed.

The election comes at a time when Central Bucks, like so many other area school districts, is under strain. It has had to confront cuts in state aid and falling property tax and related revenues and faces some tough choices.

To cope with the resulting budget gap, the board is raising taxes, , pulling from its reserve fund, , and more.

The next school board will have to confront these issues and one more major responsibility: the hiring of the next school superintendent, as N. Robert Laws is expected to retire next year.

Who are the candidates for the school board? Why do they want the job?

How do they plan to shepherd the district - 21,000 kids and 3,000 employees at 15 elementary, 5 middle, and 3 high schools - through the years ahead?

We asked them those questions. Here's what they had to say:

Region 1: Plumstead, New Britain Twp, New Britain Borough

James Duffy, R, cross-filed, 43, New Britain Township

Occupation: Business systems analyst

Background and experience: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Temple University, 15-plus years in the insurance industry. Endorsed by the New Britain Township, New Britain Borough and Plumstead Republican committees.

Website: www.Duffyforschoolboard.com

Why are you running for school board?

"I am running for school board as a concerned parent of a 6-year-old kindergartener and as a taxpayer. I have seen what is happening with the great district Central Bucks is. The bloated bureaucracy, the increasing costs and planned reduction of those costs by the superintendent and the board. With my background in business, working with companies to streamline processes and increase the bottom line, I hope to do the same for the district - reduce costs, apply fiscal restraint and keep the district one of the premier districts in the state."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership? 

"Central Bucks will be leaner, for sure. Cuts have been announced for this year, and if the economic conditions do not improve, for years to come. Our district will be run efficiently, with the people who pay the bills in mind, but without sacrificing educational excellence. This will entail looking at every process, curriculum and activity to be sure our children are ready for their futures after going through our system."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"Budget, budget, budget. We are receiving less and less funding from the state and federal government. Our local taxes are increased every year to pay for the running of the district. Cuts that have been announced are a start, but I also believe the administration needs to take a good, hard look at those responsible for running the district, not just the teachers and support staff for real efficiency opportunities."

Karen Smith, R, cross-filed, 40, New Britain Township

Occupation: self-employed part-time communications consultant

Background and experience: I have been a parent in Central Bucks for 12 years and was an employee of the district for eight years. My three children have received an outstanding education here.

Website: www.smithforschoolboard.com

Why are you running for school board?
"I am concerned about the negative attention swarming around schools across the country and the misunderstandings by the general public of how schools function. I know my background and experience with educators, parents, community members and public relations will be an asset to the district and to education overall at this time. I want to protect the outstanding education program that we have and continue to grow the program appropriately into the 21st century."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"When I am elected I will work to maintain the quality educational product we are currently providing in the areas of language arts, math, science, social studies, foreign language, art, music, athletics, performing arts and technology for both regular and special education. I will lobby to reduce mandates and regulations that strangle our finances. I will protect the working conditions of good teachers, for it is through our excellent staff that we are able to maintain a quality educational program. I will work to improve communications through a strategic use of technology and business sponsorships, and I will advocate for improved understanding of public education by the general public."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"Central Bucks is by all measures providing an excellent education to our students and our community. We are faced this year, however, with an 8 million dollar deficit. Schools are heavily restricted in the ways they are allowed to spend their revenues, and in how they obtain revenue. Dealing with such a deficit and the regulations is our biggest challenge. Over the next few years we must force some changes in the way schools do business so that we can free up the revenue we have and find new sources of revenue. We must also continue to reduce expenditures and find ways to do more with less."

Sandy Schiff, D, 65, New Britain Township

Occupation: Retired Teacher

Experience and background: MA in education; MS in reading & learning disabilities. Twenty five years working with elementary and young adult students.

Why are you running for school board?

"I believe any organization regularly needs fresh eyes and fresh input. As someone who has taught both here and in another state and has been a member of  the Central Bucks community for over 25 years, I believe I can bring a fresh perspective needed to our school district."
 
What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"It will be a district that encourages all members of the community, not just those with children in its schools, but all members to become aware of and to participate in the success of it's children. Through newspapers and other media the district will be open and transparent about what is happening in our district. From budgets to curriculum to events happening in the schools, the whole community will be aware of what is taking place in our schools and be encouraged to be an active participant; attending meetings and events and having their ideas and concerns - their voice - be heard."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"To graduate all our students; to allow them to grow and succeed both within our schools and be prepared to grow and succeed when they leave us. And to do it within a reasonable budget that does not overburden taxpayers. To help meet the challenge: Ask for pay/benefits freezes and offer early retirement incentives to those eligible to reduce costs. Encourage volunteers, parents, businesses and organizations to give their time and expertise in classrooms working with and mentoring students. Seek funding for programs, equipment from local businesses and organizations. Take a hard look at all no-classroom activities and personnel to see what could be reduced or eliminated."

Region 2: parts of Buckingham and Plumstead townships

Kelly Unger, R, cross-filed, 42, Plumstead Township

Occupation: stay-at-home mom of two

website: www.kellyungerforcbschoolboard.com

Experience and Background: With a bachelor's degree in business management from Moravian College, I have held business management and marketing positions at Unicare Health Facilities Inc. and NERAC. I currently hold several community, school and church volunteer positions, and am endorsed by the Plumstead and Buckingham Republican Committees.

Why are you running for school board?

"With two school-aged children, school board is the level of government that is the most important to my family. Because I already serve as a volunteer in various community, school and church organizations, I see the role of school board member as an opportunity to continue that service in one of our community’s most important roles: educating children. I also want to make sure that during this financial crisis the quality of education does not suffer."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"The Central Bucks community is filled with innovators. This financial crisis will be the “mother” of invention, reinvention and innovation. My outlook is positive and I envision that even in the face of great financial challenge Central Bucks will set new benchmarks and be a model for the state."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"Certainly our financial crisis is the biggest challenge we will be facing for several years. I will work to ensure that; the current financial crisis does not diminish the quality of education we offer our students, the teachers and staff will have the resources necessary to maintain the quality education offered, there will be vigilance in the budget process to make certain the resources of the community are used wisely, there is a positive relationship and good communication with taxpayers, students, teachers and staff.  I will also work with our state representatives and senator to improve the level of state support to Central Bucks. And I will work collaboratively with all stakeholders to find new ways to achieve our goals."

Kim McGlone, cross-filed, 39, of Plumstead

Occupation: homemaker/consultant

Experience and background: As a CPA with 11 years of experience, I have vast experience with budgeting and finance and as a long-time school volunteer, I have insight into the unique challenges faced in public education.

Why are you running for school board? 

"I strongly believe in the value of public education. With three young children in the district, I want to positively impact their school careers. I have had the great fortune to be actively involved in the Groveland community by serving as treasurer on its Home & School executive board for the past four years and volunteering in numerous capacities within the school. I have experienced firsthand how rewarding it is to be involved in shaping our children’s future and this position would allow me to reach more of the Central Bucks community."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership? 

"First and foremost, my top objective will be to strive to do what is best for the children entrusted to the care of the school district while maintaining fiscal responsibility. I hope to maintain/reduce class sizes, particularly at the primary levels, offer opportunities that allow for global experiences, develop collaborative relationships with district employees and search for best business practices to allow for smart savings."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge? 

"The biggest challenge faced by the district is balancing the significant cuts in state funding while continuing to offer a premium educational product. Smart decisions must be made as to how tax dollars are spent. We should work in tandem with our Legislature to develop education reform that makes sense."

Region 3: most of Buckingham

Charles Baker, R, cross-filed

(no response received) 

An incumbent member of the board, Baker was censured by his colleagues on Nov. 25, 2008, over multiple allegations of sexual harassment. He was asked to resign from the board but refused. Earlier this year, he survived a challenge to his nominating petition and remains on the ballot for re-election. 

Joe Jagelka, R, cross-filed, 48, Buckingham Township

Occupation: Sales

Background and experience: Member of Buckingham's sewer & water committee and agricultural security committee. Parent of two children in the Central Bucks District.

Why are you running for school board? 

"Buckingham Township deserves an active voice and public servant who will serve with integrity on the Central Bucks School Board. Numerous studies indicate that a cohesive school board is more successful in managing finances and maximizing student performance. We’re facing significant challenges trying to balance a budget with significant revenue shortfall with an increasing demand on resources. Our current board member has not been as effective as the times demand he be. It’s time for a fresh approach and energy to represent Buckingham Township."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"I envision Central Bucks will continue to be one of the state’s best run and most respected districts. Particularly, I see students having more opportunities to learn with new, innovative curricula and modern educational methods. We’ll be aligned with our state and federal representatives to ensure that pay & benefits for CBSD employees is competitive with the private sector. Our tax system will be equitable and will protect our senior citizens from being forced out of their homes."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"Our biggest challenge is the inequity of state funding for education. We must have education financing reform. Taxpayer money passes through too many hands, from greedy career politicians, to special interest groups and union bosses before actually reaching the students. We need to streamline funding and make it equitable for all students and taxpayers. The current system continually throws countless millions of dollars at failing districts rather than rewarding successful districts. Allowing failing districts to spend double or even triple what CBSD pays to educate a child must end. It’s time we stop squandering money we don’t have on districts & programs that don’t work. CBSD students should not pay for the other school districts that consistently fail to improve."

Evelyne Hopkins, cross-filed, 42, Doylestown

(no response received)

Background and experience: masters in education administration

Occupation: substitute teacher in the Central Bucks district

Website: www.evelynehopkins.com

Region 6: most of Doylestown Township

Leslie Carson, cross-filed, 51, Doylestown Township

Occupation: homemaker

Background and experience: BS in Biology and Chemistry from Fairleigh Dickinson in Madison, N.J. My most recent vocation as the stay-home mom of two public school boys has given me 11 years of experience in our CB school district and this community.

Website: www.lesliecarson.com

Why are you running for school board?

"The job of a school board director is to plan for the future, evaluate the effectiveness of current policy, and develop new policies. I believe the only way to do that is to seek out and listen to those who are implementing those policies and those who are affected by them. It will require a significant investment of time to research and interview informed parties from inside and outside the district. My boys will both be at West next year. I now have the time to devote to being a full-time school director.   I want to be a knowledgeable voice for kids, schools, and the community on the school board."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"My vision is that CBSD will build on the excellent reputation it currently has to become the district the county, state, and country look up to. I have no doubt we can make that vision a reality, but it will take time, extraordinary leadership, creativity, effort, and commitment."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"The combination of reduced revenue and increased costs is the big challenge at CBSD today. Analyzing the effects of current cuts on educational quality in 2011-2012 will be critical to future budgets. In order to increase revenue and reduce costs, once again, new ideas from novel sources will be needed. I will dedicate the time necessary to find them. Dr. Laws will be retiring and we will be hiring a new superintendent very soon. This person will have to have extraordinary talents to guide this district into the future and I look forward to collaborating with the other directors in that search. The qualities I will be looking for are strong leadership, an innovative spirit, extensive education background and administrative experience."

Sharon Collopy, cross-filed, 50, Doylestown Township

Occupation: Part-time Bookkeeper

Experience and background:  A Doylestown Township resident since 1985, B.S. Science, Penn State, Active in classroom, Home & School, community activities for 16 years; 5 children who attend or have graduated from CB schools

Why are you running for school board? 

"In 1987 or 88 a CB school board member told me that the board adopted a new reading program because, "You don't have to teach phonics anymore.  I know it sounds ridiculous, but they say it will work." It didn't. I was told when my oldest was in first grade not to correct his spelling.  These, and other programs like Everyday Math, prompted me to study curriculum and educational theories.  My research led me to testify before the State Board of Education on math standards. More than one state board member encouraged me to run for my local school board."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"I want to maintain our good core academic and extracurricular programs and reject educational fads."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"Balance the budget how every business and family must.  Examine every line item, contract, staff position, program, and department to find ways to reduce spending.  Consider other revenue sources, for example, advertising and activity fees.  Work with state officials for real property tax and pension reform.  Search nationally for a new superintendent with both educational and business experience."

Tyler Tomlinson, cross-filed, 41, Doylestown Township

Occupation: attorney

Background and experience: lifelong resident of Doylestown, member of Doylestown Presbyterian Church and CB Cares, serves as Doylestown Township auditor and is endorsed by the Doylestown Township Republicans and the Central Bucks Education Association.

Website: www.tomlinsonforschoolboard.com

Why are you running for school board?

"I was successful at Lehigh University and New York Law School because of the background I received in Central Bucks schools. Now I have five children who are or will attend Central Bucks Schools. I want my children, other children, and our community to continue to prosper from our award-winning and outstanding schools."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"Central Bucks would continue to offer an outstanding academic education...My vision is that Central Bucks continues to be respected as an outstanding district on the state and national level. As a school board member, I would work very hard to maintain and even improve our outstanding achievements."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"Without a doubt our biggest challenge is to stay within our budget and continue to offer an outstanding education. Many people are suffering in these hard economic times. Central Bucks has adopted a preliminary budget of 287.5 million. Every area of this budget needs to be reviewed as we ask ourselves the question 'How do we protect quality education and follow state mandates?' All school district contracts such as copies machines, supplies, electricity and natural gas should be examined. Creative thinking, working smarter, collaborative problem solving...we will need all these tools and more to protect our outstanding education and stay within our budget."

Region 8: Doylestown Borough and part of Doylestown Township

Geri McMullin, R, cross-filed, 67, Doylestown Borough

Occupation: co-owner, Keystone Tree Experts

Background and experience: 28 year incumbent on the school board and 50 years of involvement in local community service in Doylestown and Bucks County.

"I am running for an eighth term because public education is at a crossroads. The combination of economic decline and massive losses of revenue has resulted in a major budget crisis. My goal and vision would be to provide the experience and leadership to insure that our CB students continue to receive an excellent education at the lowest possible cost to our residents. We need to move away from "business as usual" and find creative ways to continue to provide a quality education. We must negotiate realistic and reasonable contracts, restructure our debt, explore all health care options, and look at reduction of programs and staff that will not negatively impact student achievement."

Joe Frederick, D, 60, Doylestown Borough

Occupation: owns Eastern Blasting Co.

Background and experience: Grew up on a farm in Buckingham. Been in business since 1979.

Why are you running for school board?

"The children's education is paramount to everything else. They are the ones that matter. We've all had our cahnce in life and I want to make sure these kids get the same educational opportunities they deserve, the ones we had. You can't live here all your life and not do anything. It's time to give back."

What is your vision for the district? What will CB schools look like under your leadership?

"I actually like the way they are now. There's always difficulties dealing with the teachers' unions, but my vision is to always put the kids first. Saying that, you have to be mindful that the taxpayers are the ones paying the bills. It's a fine balancing act to make sure the kids have the education they deserve, but that the taxpayers are represented by people who care about them."

What do you see as the district’s biggest challenge today and how would you help it meet that challenge?

"The biggest challenge now is the pension issue. I don't think it's as much a school district problem as it is a state Legislature problem. When Gov. Ridge was in, they created a monumental problem when they changed the vested years for pensions from 10 years to 5 years. They never paid for it, and they kicked it down the road, through Ridge and Rendell and now this governor has it. The state mandates to the school boards what they have to pay for the pensions. Everybody has to take responsibility for fixing it."

Patricia Wilson, cross-filed

(no response received)