Vote for Change

To The Editor:

As a new (non-incumbent) candidate for the Upper Dublin School Board, I would like to ask the voters to consider some reasons why we need new leadership on the Board. I am running with four candidates who bring experience in business, education and law and are extremely well-informed on all issues facing the district.

We have been disappointed in the current Board’s poor communication skills and lack of transparency. This has been demonstrated with changes in curriculum with no surveys or stakeholder input. Currently, discussions are beginning on a possible grade realignment and a possible redistricting of neighborhood schools. However, since the Facilities meetings are scheduled for 9 AM in the morning, it would be very difficult for working taxpayers to attend these meetings and give input.

At a recent candidates’ forum, organized by the Maple Glen Business Association, we enjoyed answering questions from the taxpayers. Our five (5) incumbent opponents unfortunately declined to participate in the event, leaving voters without answers to these and other vital topics.
In addition, we are concerned that a recent district “Communication Survey”, presented in June, pointed to poor communication, poor staff morale and a large percentage of respondents who said that the Upper Dublin School District is “in a decline”.

It is disappointing that so many think we are “in a decline” despite the excessive taxation we have experienced. Upper Dublin taxes have increased over 90%, in 14 years, under the leadership of the current Board. This is far higher than surrounding districts. In a comparison of taxes on a median –priced home, the Philadelphia Inquirer (6/14/15) shows Upper Dublin as third highest out of 21 districts. After voting for years of high taxes, the current Board President, is running for a fifth (non-consecutive) term. It used to be that Upper Dublin was a very good value for taxpayers, with excellent academic achievement and “reasonable” taxes. This is now in question.
I have attended almost every Board meeting since 2008 and am well-versed in the budget and facilities requirements. I have a background in business which includes negotiating contracts. Education is not a business but running a $90 million dollar school district is.

Please consider voting for new leadership. Our candidates including my running mates, Nancy Marsden, Brendan Campbell, Martha Toll and Rob Rosenthal are all asking for your vote. We are all committed to educational excellence and responsible fiscal management. We want to improve communication by having “town hall” meetings to get your input. We will improve transparency by including all stakeholders in a public process. We want the best possible education for our students and a more open process for our community. Please vote on November 3.
Sincerely,

Joseph M. Koenig