NORWICH – Norwich City School District held its annual “Meet the Candidates” night on Tuesday where five candidates answered prepared questions as well as questions from the audience ahead of May 15’s school board election when three seats will be filled.
Incumbent Jennifer Collins, and candidates Brian Burton, Jamie Maistros, Brian Reid, and Herb Ryan each explained why they are running for school board and what strides they think could be made on behalf of the board of education to improve the district.
Why they are seeking a seat on the board:
Before questions, the candidates were given an opportunity to introduce themselves and explain why they are seeking a seat on the board.
Reid said, “I run because I want the board to be a source of pride in the community, a group that’s looked upon as key leaders who will work together for the best solution for the children, faculty, and community. Finally, I’m running because I want to be the positive change needed to make all these things happen.”
Maistros said, “I’m running for the board of education because this is my home and my community, and I’m looking for a way to give back to support the very programs that brought me to this point...I know the excellent educators and staff members and students that we have here, I know the power that a cohesive board of education can have over helping to drive the vision of our school community and I would really like to be a part of that.”
Burton said, “I have a vested interest as a parent, a taxpayer, and as an active member of our community. I truly cannot wait to help make a difference. I feel the election is one that is coming at the right time; we have so many wonderful things in our district we need to celebrate, as well as opportunities for improvement, and I’m hoping to be a part of both of those things.”
Collins said, “I’m concerned for our students that they get the kind of education in this school that I got through the ‘50s and into 1968...I take great pride in making myself educated about things concerning education, being a good board member, what’s happening in trends, what’s happening specifically in dealing with board issues that come up on a regular basis. For that reason, I feel the work isn’t done, and I’d like to continue.”
Ryan said, “I think education is the great equalizer no matter what...I’m running for the position of school board because I have the time, the energy, and the desire to contribute to our community.
Questions from
