As reported by http://www.lohud.com/:
Andrea Furey and Giuseppina Miller won two open seats on the Croton-Harmon Board of Education today.
Furey received 685 votes and Miller 664.
Trailing in the race were Lisa Grinberg McManus with 514 votes, Lisa Wolland with 490 votes, and Lisa Cohen with 421 votes.
The $42.8 million spending plan, which calls for the elimination of a handful of educational and clerical positions, was passed by a margin of 952 to 522. It proposes a zero-percent tax increase for residents living in the Cortlandt section of the district, and a slight tax decrease for the small section of the district in the town of Yorktown.
The $920,000 library bond passed by a margin of 1,030 to 432.
To all my supporters: THANK YOU!!! To all my fellow candidates: THANK YOU for the intelligence, passion and civility that you brought to this process. It was an honor to run with you!
All best, Andrea Furey
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Final Thoughts On My Race....
Reflections about School Communication from the Train Station:
As my campaign for school board candidate winds down, I’d like to share an anecdote: Handing out leaflets at the Croton-Harmon train station I was greeted by a man rushing home who yelled to me, “Tell me in one sentence or less, why should I vote for you and what do you think of the Mandarin program?” I did my best under these frustrating conditions and didn’t get as far as I wished. But Hey --I thought -- this is the reality. Yes most issues are complex, but to truly engage the public, the Board needs to boil them down to their most basic facts and get them out there – even if it means handing out flyers at the train station.
For engage the public we must. And by ”public” I mean the entire Village of Croton and our Croton-Harmon educational community.
A silver lining of the economic crises has been that it has focused us on our schools. Croton has been in danger of maxing out its tax base for years. With our present economic situation questions about the future economic sustainability of our schools seem particularly critical. During these past months the public has showed up in unprecedented numbers to discuss the budget and to express their feelings about what is most important for our schools. Many people went on record about Mandarin (although probably not the gentleman that was sprinting away!), reading teachers and afterschool programs. Most importantly public engagement let the administration know what many Crotonites felt they could handle as a tax increase while maintaining the strength of our school programs.
In direct response, the budget went through 5 revisions. I think the end result is a reasonable compromise: A 0% tax levy increase, with minimal trimming of academic and after school programs. If voted in, this budget will be made workable through the efforts and cooperation of administrators, staff members, teachers and ultimately students. For example, some of the janitors will be involved in grounds work and landscaping. Most teachers will be handling more students. Our new superintendent, Dr. Fuhrman, and other school administrators have elected to take on 20% of their health coverage, as a model for the Croton-Harmon teaching staff now involved in contract negotiations. We all wait in anticipation to see what proactive response the teachers will be giving us. We do know that teachers care about the welfare of our children and the good of our community. As tax payers do their part, we look to the educational staff to do theirs.
In tough times we must come together to maximize our resources, to share our talents and ideas and it is an important role of the board to facilitate this. I believe that my background in Communications, Advocacy and Community Building for Non-Profits makes me a good match at this time. The Journal News endorsed me for this very reason. My years of working with non-profit budgets, which always means squeezing every dollar when you know that you are working for a vital cause, would give me the right perspective as we examine each expenditure to see how we can maximize the result for our children --- and the tax payers. My communications background gives me many creative and common sense ideas about how to get the word out. My years of advocacy for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and CH SEPTA organizing people and crafting messages for legislators and the school administration informs me that you are only heard when you bring together large numbers of citizens who speak in one voice.
It has been an exciting and rewarding experience to spend the last six weeks or so meeting with so many community members to discuss the “what” and “how” of providing a great school program for our children. The “what” being our district’s absolute “must have list” of priorities. The “how” being how we can work together to make them a reality.
In conclusion I’d like to share my thoughts about the other candidates: They are an extremely dedicated, motivated and personable group of women and I have enjoyed getting to know each of them enormously. I am truly grateful for the civility of this race, and I hope it sets an example for our town, including our children. I ask for your vote tomorrow because I bring a new set of skills and experiences that would be helpful to the board and the work that needs to be done. However, whatever the outcome I plan to remain engaged and I call upon you to engage as well. The future welfare of our nation depends upon the education that our children receive today. Win or lose, you’ll probably see me leafleting at the train station!
For more information please visit http://www.smartvoter.org/ , e-mail me at andreafurey@msn.com or call 271-7640.
As my campaign for school board candidate winds down, I’d like to share an anecdote: Handing out leaflets at the Croton-Harmon train station I was greeted by a man rushing home who yelled to me, “Tell me in one sentence or less, why should I vote for you and what do you think of the Mandarin program?” I did my best under these frustrating conditions and didn’t get as far as I wished. But Hey --I thought -- this is the reality. Yes most issues are complex, but to truly engage the public, the Board needs to boil them down to their most basic facts and get them out there – even if it means handing out flyers at the train station.
For engage the public we must. And by ”public” I mean the entire Village of Croton and our Croton-Harmon educational community.
A silver lining of the economic crises has been that it has focused us on our schools. Croton has been in danger of maxing out its tax base for years. With our present economic situation questions about the future economic sustainability of our schools seem particularly critical. During these past months the public has showed up in unprecedented numbers to discuss the budget and to express their feelings about what is most important for our schools. Many people went on record about Mandarin (although probably not the gentleman that was sprinting away!), reading teachers and afterschool programs. Most importantly public engagement let the administration know what many Crotonites felt they could handle as a tax increase while maintaining the strength of our school programs.
In direct response, the budget went through 5 revisions. I think the end result is a reasonable compromise: A 0% tax levy increase, with minimal trimming of academic and after school programs. If voted in, this budget will be made workable through the efforts and cooperation of administrators, staff members, teachers and ultimately students. For example, some of the janitors will be involved in grounds work and landscaping. Most teachers will be handling more students. Our new superintendent, Dr. Fuhrman, and other school administrators have elected to take on 20% of their health coverage, as a model for the Croton-Harmon teaching staff now involved in contract negotiations. We all wait in anticipation to see what proactive response the teachers will be giving us. We do know that teachers care about the welfare of our children and the good of our community. As tax payers do their part, we look to the educational staff to do theirs.
In tough times we must come together to maximize our resources, to share our talents and ideas and it is an important role of the board to facilitate this. I believe that my background in Communications, Advocacy and Community Building for Non-Profits makes me a good match at this time. The Journal News endorsed me for this very reason. My years of working with non-profit budgets, which always means squeezing every dollar when you know that you are working for a vital cause, would give me the right perspective as we examine each expenditure to see how we can maximize the result for our children --- and the tax payers. My communications background gives me many creative and common sense ideas about how to get the word out. My years of advocacy for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and CH SEPTA organizing people and crafting messages for legislators and the school administration informs me that you are only heard when you bring together large numbers of citizens who speak in one voice.
It has been an exciting and rewarding experience to spend the last six weeks or so meeting with so many community members to discuss the “what” and “how” of providing a great school program for our children. The “what” being our district’s absolute “must have list” of priorities. The “how” being how we can work together to make them a reality.
In conclusion I’d like to share my thoughts about the other candidates: They are an extremely dedicated, motivated and personable group of women and I have enjoyed getting to know each of them enormously. I am truly grateful for the civility of this race, and I hope it sets an example for our town, including our children. I ask for your vote tomorrow because I bring a new set of skills and experiences that would be helpful to the board and the work that needs to be done. However, whatever the outcome I plan to remain engaged and I call upon you to engage as well. The future welfare of our nation depends upon the education that our children receive today. Win or lose, you’ll probably see me leafleting at the train station!
For more information please visit http://www.smartvoter.org/ , e-mail me at andreafurey@msn.com or call 271-7640.
www.smartvoter.org
After a few issues with uploading I finally have my information available on The League of Women Voter's site: www.smartvoter.org. Better later than never?!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Summary of Qualifications and Candidate's Statement
A ten-year Croton-on-Hudson resident and mother of two children attending the 10th and 6th grades in Croton schools, Andrea Furey offers a host of capabilities that will serve our community well, particularly during this challenging economic environment when state and federal educational spending has contracted as new costs on the school district are imposed:
Andrea has a proven track record building and leveraging public advocacy: She is well versed in cost cutting, budget squeezing and the transparency that non-profits -- and schools -- demand. She made the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's national art programs that she ran for more than 10 years completely self-funded including salary and overhead. She produced an MS awareness website, www. faceofms.org that brought in thousands of new advocates for the Society. She acted to solidify relationships with key art patrons during her tenure as Assistant Director of The International Council at the Museum of Modern Art in support of its international programs. She coordinates marketing, public relations and volunteer development for the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts. She has served on the public relations and production committee for the Croton-Harmon Educational Foundation (CHEF) "Under the Stars" since 2006. And she served on the Alliance for Croton-Harmon Education task force formed to explore additional income for the school district.
Andrea has proven success building open and productive communication among diverse interest groups that benefit all.
She co-founded Croton's first Special Education PTA that sought out cost-effective, educationally appropriate solutions to benefit pre-school and school-age children, educators, parents and tax payers.
Andrea's extensive professional and volunteer experiences provide her with a robust understanding and valuable insight into the district as well as its grade-specific goals and challenges. She currently works as a pre-school teacher at Childrenspace All Day Preschool in Croton-on-Hudson. She serves as assistant leader for Girl Scout Troop 1198 for 10th graders. She co-produced the Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School musical, Aladdin, this year. In addition she has worked with families and educators developing educationally appropriate and effective programs for children from pre-school through high school as Parent Member for the District's Committee on Special Education since 2003.
Candidate's Statement:
"My goal for the district is straightforward: I seek to maintain the quality of our educational system by making it more economically sustainable. Both the village and educational community will have to work together for this to happen.
"Together, we need to advocate on every legislative level to keep costs contained and for all the funding we can possibly get; together, we need to keep a close eye on each expenditure; together, we must explore new ways to save, such as increased sharing of services on a local and county level and new funding sources; and finally, together we must mine the incredible talents and resources that the Croton community already offers.
"To achieve these goals, the school board must communicate effectively with the village and educational community using a variety of means and many different avenues. It is important for the board to continue to monitor how effectively they are reaching the public and continue to adjust their effforts to insure success. My skills and experience would make me an effective board member in this regard.
"The future welfare of our nation, our community, and our families depends upon the education that we provide to our children today. As a member of your school board, I will do all I can to insure the quality of that education. " -- Andrea Furey
Andrea has a proven track record building and leveraging public advocacy: She is well versed in cost cutting, budget squeezing and the transparency that non-profits -- and schools -- demand. She made the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's national art programs that she ran for more than 10 years completely self-funded including salary and overhead. She produced an MS awareness website, www. faceofms.org that brought in thousands of new advocates for the Society. She acted to solidify relationships with key art patrons during her tenure as Assistant Director of The International Council at the Museum of Modern Art in support of its international programs. She coordinates marketing, public relations and volunteer development for the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts. She has served on the public relations and production committee for the Croton-Harmon Educational Foundation (CHEF) "Under the Stars" since 2006. And she served on the Alliance for Croton-Harmon Education task force formed to explore additional income for the school district.
Andrea has proven success building open and productive communication among diverse interest groups that benefit all.
She co-founded Croton's first Special Education PTA that sought out cost-effective, educationally appropriate solutions to benefit pre-school and school-age children, educators, parents and tax payers.
Andrea's extensive professional and volunteer experiences provide her with a robust understanding and valuable insight into the district as well as its grade-specific goals and challenges. She currently works as a pre-school teacher at Childrenspace All Day Preschool in Croton-on-Hudson. She serves as assistant leader for Girl Scout Troop 1198 for 10th graders. She co-produced the Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School musical, Aladdin, this year. In addition she has worked with families and educators developing educationally appropriate and effective programs for children from pre-school through high school as Parent Member for the District's Committee on Special Education since 2003.
Candidate's Statement:
"My goal for the district is straightforward: I seek to maintain the quality of our educational system by making it more economically sustainable. Both the village and educational community will have to work together for this to happen.
"Together, we need to advocate on every legislative level to keep costs contained and for all the funding we can possibly get; together, we need to keep a close eye on each expenditure; together, we must explore new ways to save, such as increased sharing of services on a local and county level and new funding sources; and finally, together we must mine the incredible talents and resources that the Croton community already offers.
"To achieve these goals, the school board must communicate effectively with the village and educational community using a variety of means and many different avenues. It is important for the board to continue to monitor how effectively they are reaching the public and continue to adjust their effforts to insure success. My skills and experience would make me an effective board member in this regard.
"The future welfare of our nation, our community, and our families depends upon the education that we provide to our children today. As a member of your school board, I will do all I can to insure the quality of that education. " -- Andrea Furey
Contact information: andreafurey@msn.com or 914-271-7640.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Endorsement from the Journal News!
I have received an endorsement from The Journal News:
"Furey founded and served as co-president of the parent-teacher organization for special-education students. She said she wants to look at state mandates and urge Croton and nearby districts to lobby for relief. With extensive work in public relations and development for a nonprofit, Furey has skills and experience that would stand Croton-Harmon in good stead."
http://lohud.com/article/20090512/OPINION/905120325/-1/ELECTIONS01
There is a special election coverage on all the candidates including feed of a panel discussion in which we all participated. Visit http://lohud.com/ School Elections / Westchester/ Croton-Harmon.
"Furey founded and served as co-president of the parent-teacher organization for special-education students. She said she wants to look at state mandates and urge Croton and nearby districts to lobby for relief. With extensive work in public relations and development for a nonprofit, Furey has skills and experience that would stand Croton-Harmon in good stead."
http://lohud.com/article/20090512/OPINION/905120325/-1/ELECTIONS01
There is a special election coverage on all the candidates including feed of a panel discussion in which we all participated. Visit http://lohud.com/ School Elections / Westchester/ Croton-Harmon.
Endorsement from Patricia L. Buchanan, A Letter to the Gazette
To the editor:
I add my voice to the chorus of community members who plan to vote for Andrea Furey for the Croton School Board next Tuesday, May 19. Andrea has broad and deep experience in education and advocacy for child development. Additionally, Andrea is well suited to be a School Board Member as she has established herself as a consensus builder. I have great confidence that she will completely serve the children, their parents and all residents, who, like myself, do not have children in our school, but nonetheless are constituents of our school system.
Sincerely, Patricia L. Buchanan
Endorsement from Joel E. Gingold, A Letter to The Gazette
I am supporting Lisa Cohen and Andrea Furey for the School board and I urge you to do the same.
My principal concern is that, while this year's budget has not wreaked too much havoc on the schools, next year, in the absence of many one-time contributions to income, we are likely to face a significant deficit. This could lead to the distasteful choice of either a massive tax increase or the dismissal of a substantial number of teachers and the elimination of numerous programs. Not only could this devestate the school system and/or the taxpayers, but it could also create a serious rift in the community between those who have children in the schools and those who do not. Not a happy situation.
At the beginning of the campaign, I did not know any of the candidates. So I sent each of them a few questions related to this issue, i.e., How, in these perilous economic times, do we maintain a quality educational program at a cost that the taxpayers can afford?
All five of the candidates came back with detailed, thoughtful and candid responses. I watched the video of their panel at the Journal News and I also had the opportunity to speak with almost all of them. I concluded that we have an outstanding group of women willing and able to take on what must be the most difficult public office in the community. I believe that all of them would represent the district well, but choices must be made.
Lisa Cohen gets it! She got it from the beginning and I think it is imperative to have someone with her outlook and understanding on the Board to ensure that the interests of both the students and the taxpayers are effectively represented and balanced.
For the second seat, I admit I am torn between Andrea Furey and Lisa McManus. I believe they both understand the situation well and will advocate doing what is necessary and appropriate to provide affordable, quality education for our students. As I can only vote for one of them, and for a variety of reasons too involved to discuss here, I will support Andrea Furey.
This may be the most crucial School Board election we have faced in many years. So I encourage all of you to find out as much as you can about all of the candidates and, most importantly, to get out and vote on May 19.
Sincerely, Joel E. Gingold
My principal concern is that, while this year's budget has not wreaked too much havoc on the schools, next year, in the absence of many one-time contributions to income, we are likely to face a significant deficit. This could lead to the distasteful choice of either a massive tax increase or the dismissal of a substantial number of teachers and the elimination of numerous programs. Not only could this devestate the school system and/or the taxpayers, but it could also create a serious rift in the community between those who have children in the schools and those who do not. Not a happy situation.
At the beginning of the campaign, I did not know any of the candidates. So I sent each of them a few questions related to this issue, i.e., How, in these perilous economic times, do we maintain a quality educational program at a cost that the taxpayers can afford?
All five of the candidates came back with detailed, thoughtful and candid responses. I watched the video of their panel at the Journal News and I also had the opportunity to speak with almost all of them. I concluded that we have an outstanding group of women willing and able to take on what must be the most difficult public office in the community. I believe that all of them would represent the district well, but choices must be made.
Lisa Cohen gets it! She got it from the beginning and I think it is imperative to have someone with her outlook and understanding on the Board to ensure that the interests of both the students and the taxpayers are effectively represented and balanced.
For the second seat, I admit I am torn between Andrea Furey and Lisa McManus. I believe they both understand the situation well and will advocate doing what is necessary and appropriate to provide affordable, quality education for our students. As I can only vote for one of them, and for a variety of reasons too involved to discuss here, I will support Andrea Furey.
This may be the most crucial School Board election we have faced in many years. So I encourage all of you to find out as much as you can about all of the candidates and, most importantly, to get out and vote on May 19.
Sincerely, Joel E. Gingold
Endorsement from Laura K. Fallon, A Letter to the Gazette
To the editor:
I am writing to you today to ask next week when you vote for new school board representatives, please consider voting for Andrea Furey. I have known Andrea since she first moved to Croton. Andrea is an incredibly talented human being, who is caring, smart and has a real drive to make a difference in her community. Andrea has juggled many different volunteer jobs in Croton for many years and has done so with aplomb.
Andrea's background is incredibly diverse and lends a huge wealth of experience for this position. Andrea will ask the right questions, is always fair, want the best for every person she encounters. I have been to many of the parent meetings that Andrea has arranged for SEPTA and they were excellent programs and her experience with SEPTA just add so much to her candidacy. Not only does she understand the dealings of being a parent of school-aged children, but she also knows what it is to deal with all the other issues that encompass having a special needs student. It was a vital service that Andrea founded and nurtured and for that I thank her.
We Croton residents will be very lucky to have such a wonderful, intelligent, caring person looking out for our best interest on the school board. Please consider voting for this very capable person.
Kind regards, Laura K. Fallon
I am writing to you today to ask next week when you vote for new school board representatives, please consider voting for Andrea Furey. I have known Andrea since she first moved to Croton. Andrea is an incredibly talented human being, who is caring, smart and has a real drive to make a difference in her community. Andrea has juggled many different volunteer jobs in Croton for many years and has done so with aplomb.
Andrea's background is incredibly diverse and lends a huge wealth of experience for this position. Andrea will ask the right questions, is always fair, want the best for every person she encounters. I have been to many of the parent meetings that Andrea has arranged for SEPTA and they were excellent programs and her experience with SEPTA just add so much to her candidacy. Not only does she understand the dealings of being a parent of school-aged children, but she also knows what it is to deal with all the other issues that encompass having a special needs student. It was a vital service that Andrea founded and nurtured and for that I thank her.
We Croton residents will be very lucky to have such a wonderful, intelligent, caring person looking out for our best interest on the school board. Please consider voting for this very capable person.
Kind regards, Laura K. Fallon
Endorsement from Kathy (Leonard) Reynolds, A Letter to the Gazette
I am writing to support Andrea Furey’s candidacy for the Croton-Harmon School Board.
Andrea’s greatest asset is her ability to communicate. She is a communications specialist who has used her talents working for the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Museum of Modern Art and the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts. Her work as Co-President of the Croton-Harmon Special Education PTA has resulted in greater dialogue between parents, teachers and administrators. For those voters who do not have children or no longer have children in the schools, Andrea is the candidate for you. She understands the need to communicate with everyone, not just to parents of children in the district. Andrea also recognizes the importance of an open dialogue between the school district and the village administration.
As Co-Founder and Co-President of the Croton-Harmon Special Education PTA, as well as a Committee on Special Education parent member, Andrea is the only candidate who understands the complex issues related to special education in our district. Special education programming accounts for nearly 15% of the total school budget Andrea has the knowledge and ability to evaluate the effectiveness of programs as well as look at options to contain costs.
I hope you will join me in voting for Andrea Furey on May 19th.
Kathy (Leonard) Reynolds
Croton-on-Hudson
Andrea’s greatest asset is her ability to communicate. She is a communications specialist who has used her talents working for the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Museum of Modern Art and the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts. Her work as Co-President of the Croton-Harmon Special Education PTA has resulted in greater dialogue between parents, teachers and administrators. For those voters who do not have children or no longer have children in the schools, Andrea is the candidate for you. She understands the need to communicate with everyone, not just to parents of children in the district. Andrea also recognizes the importance of an open dialogue between the school district and the village administration.
As Co-Founder and Co-President of the Croton-Harmon Special Education PTA, as well as a Committee on Special Education parent member, Andrea is the only candidate who understands the complex issues related to special education in our district. Special education programming accounts for nearly 15% of the total school budget Andrea has the knowledge and ability to evaluate the effectiveness of programs as well as look at options to contain costs.
I hope you will join me in voting for Andrea Furey on May 19th.
Kathy (Leonard) Reynolds
Croton-on-Hudson
Endorsement from Nicole Y. Shapiro, A Letter to the Gazette
To the residents of the Croton Harmon school district:
Our School Board elections are rapidly approaching and I am taking this final opportunity to endorse Andrea Furey to fill one of the two open seats.
I have had the privilege of working very closely with Andrea over the past five years on the Board of the Special Education PTA (SEPTA). It therefore came to me as no surprise that she was tapped by members of the school board to consider a run for a seat . Her professional background, her volunteer work (particularly as co-founder and co-president of SEPTA) as well as her role as mother of two students (one at PVC and one at the high school), uniquely qualify her for the position. She has both the intellect and the passion that the role requires. She understands the tremendous commitment and work it involves and to me it would be a very natural next step for her. I have full confidence in her ability to effectively advocate for our children’s education. I hope you’ll join me in voting for her on Tuesday, May 19th.
Sincerely, Nicole Y. Shapiro
Our School Board elections are rapidly approaching and I am taking this final opportunity to endorse Andrea Furey to fill one of the two open seats.
I have had the privilege of working very closely with Andrea over the past five years on the Board of the Special Education PTA (SEPTA). It therefore came to me as no surprise that she was tapped by members of the school board to consider a run for a seat . Her professional background, her volunteer work (particularly as co-founder and co-president of SEPTA) as well as her role as mother of two students (one at PVC and one at the high school), uniquely qualify her for the position. She has both the intellect and the passion that the role requires. She understands the tremendous commitment and work it involves and to me it would be a very natural next step for her. I have full confidence in her ability to effectively advocate for our children’s education. I hope you’ll join me in voting for her on Tuesday, May 19th.
Sincerely, Nicole Y. Shapiro
Endorsement from Lori Siegel, Educator
As an elementary school educator, former teacher in the Croton-Harmon School District and Croton resident, I am writing in support of Andrea Furey for Croton Harmon School Board member. Andrea’s heart is definitely in the right place.
She has impressed me with her enthusiasm and vision for our district. Andrea recognizes the importance of how all the pieces of the puzzle from children, parents, teachers, administrators, staff, community and board members need to fit together to create a thriving and healthy school environment. Very open and willing to learn about education, she is committed to supporting all children and their educational needs.
What impresses me about Andrea is that she actually cares about creating good morale for all school personnel, and she advocates for everyone. I appreciate that Andrea wants to strengthen our system of checks and balances so that everyone knows what is really going on.
With her background in non-profit project management (that made her account for every penny spent), communications, advocacy and her investment in the makings of a school district, I think Andrea Furey would be a great addition to the board and the Croton community. Please join me in supporting her on Tuesday!
Sincerely, Lori Siegel
She has impressed me with her enthusiasm and vision for our district. Andrea recognizes the importance of how all the pieces of the puzzle from children, parents, teachers, administrators, staff, community and board members need to fit together to create a thriving and healthy school environment. Very open and willing to learn about education, she is committed to supporting all children and their educational needs.
What impresses me about Andrea is that she actually cares about creating good morale for all school personnel, and she advocates for everyone. I appreciate that Andrea wants to strengthen our system of checks and balances so that everyone knows what is really going on.
With her background in non-profit project management (that made her account for every penny spent), communications, advocacy and her investment in the makings of a school district, I think Andrea Furey would be a great addition to the board and the Croton community. Please join me in supporting her on Tuesday!
Sincerely, Lori Siegel
Friday, May 15, 2009
Endorsement from Singer-Songwriter, Marion LoGuidice
I am writing on behalf of Andrea Furey in support of her candidacy for Croton-Harmon school board member. I am still rather new to the Croton community, having moved here just last summer. Andrea is one of the people whom I’ve met who has really helped strengthen my link with our new school. I first met her when my daughter was in the stage crew for the PVC musical, Aladdin, last March. Andrea involved me as a volunteer, and her support helped make possible the inclusion of so many children in the show -- 70 or so. As a new member of this community , she’s always been extremely generous , helpful and supportive to me in every way.
I recently attended one of her Thursday night Croton Diner get togethers about the district and learned about the proposed budget and the district’s educational philosophy. This was especially helpful because public schools are a new experience for my family. It was a nice opportunity to meet others who care about the future of Croton’s schools. Andrea’s long and varied experience with Croton schools, her intelligence and ability to put people at ease, listen to them and involve them, makes Andrea my choice
for school board.
I would also like to voice my support for Lisa Cohen. I recently attended a coffee gathering where she spoke . I was moved by her dedication, passion and concern for our children's education. She answered all of our questions and concerns, in a confident, well informed and caring way.
I hope you will join me in voting for Andrea Furey and Lisa Cohen.
Marion LoGuidice
I recently attended one of her Thursday night Croton Diner get togethers about the district and learned about the proposed budget and the district’s educational philosophy. This was especially helpful because public schools are a new experience for my family. It was a nice opportunity to meet others who care about the future of Croton’s schools. Andrea’s long and varied experience with Croton schools, her intelligence and ability to put people at ease, listen to them and involve them, makes Andrea my choice
for school board.
I would also like to voice my support for Lisa Cohen. I recently attended a coffee gathering where she spoke . I was moved by her dedication, passion and concern for our children's education. She answered all of our questions and concerns, in a confident, well informed and caring way.
I hope you will join me in voting for Andrea Furey and Lisa Cohen.
Marion LoGuidice
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Endorsement from Alexander Betancourt, A Letter to the Gazette
To the editor:
I am writing today to show support for the best candidate for the school board. Andrea Furey comes to the table with common sense, but also a wealth of knowledge. Andrea has only lived in Croton about seven years and in that short time she has started an incredibly important PTA for people who struggle with children who have special needs. Not to mention the years of service as a Girl Scout leader.I find Andrea to be an excellent listener, who thinks on her feet and tries to come up with the best solutions or compromise to every problem she encounters. She is tenacious in getting the job done. Andrea is bright, caring, open and Croton-on-Hudson will be a better place with someone of Andrea's caliber on its school board. Please vote for the best candidate next week.
Sincerely, Alexander Betancourt
I am writing today to show support for the best candidate for the school board. Andrea Furey comes to the table with common sense, but also a wealth of knowledge. Andrea has only lived in Croton about seven years and in that short time she has started an incredibly important PTA for people who struggle with children who have special needs. Not to mention the years of service as a Girl Scout leader.I find Andrea to be an excellent listener, who thinks on her feet and tries to come up with the best solutions or compromise to every problem she encounters. She is tenacious in getting the job done. Andrea is bright, caring, open and Croton-on-Hudson will be a better place with someone of Andrea's caliber on its school board. Please vote for the best candidate next week.
Sincerely, Alexander Betancourt
Monday, May 11, 2009
Endorsement from Joan Wilson, A Letter to the Gazette
As the Croton school board election nears, I would like to share my reasons for supporting Andrea Furey's candidacy. She brings to the table a host of capabilities that will serve our community well, especially as the challenging economic environment persists.
First, she has proven success in building open and productive communications among diverse stakeholders to the benefit of all -- a capability that facilitates productive relationships between the district and parents of current or impending school-age children, the district and its citizens who are no longer or never were direct users of the schools, the district and the village, and so on.
Second, Andrea has a robust understanding of and valuable insights on both overall district and grade-specific goals and challenges -- that is, she is well-versed in the realities of our district's commitments.
Third, she has strong relationships with teachers, administrators, and staff at all three Croton schools and in the pre-K community -- an important foundation for board member effectiveness.
Fourth, Andrea is experienced in building and leveraging public advocacy -- a critical capability as state and federal educational spending continues to trend toward further constriction and other entities attempt to impose new costs upon the district.
And last but not least, Andrea is experienced in maximizing the return from every dollar spent, giving each of us assurance that our tax dollars will be spent smartly.
For further information on Andrea's experience and capabilities, please visit her web site at: http://andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com/. Should you have missed Wednesday's Forum at CHHS, Andrea has a standing date with the public on Thursday evenings at the Croton Colonial Diner from 7:30- 8:30 pm, affording an opportunity to meet with her and learn more about her background and the goals and innovative perspective she would bring as a board member.
Thank you in advance for your prospective support for Andrea Furey on May 19th. -- Joan Wilson, Croton, New York
First, she has proven success in building open and productive communications among diverse stakeholders to the benefit of all -- a capability that facilitates productive relationships between the district and parents of current or impending school-age children, the district and its citizens who are no longer or never were direct users of the schools, the district and the village, and so on.
Second, Andrea has a robust understanding of and valuable insights on both overall district and grade-specific goals and challenges -- that is, she is well-versed in the realities of our district's commitments.
Third, she has strong relationships with teachers, administrators, and staff at all three Croton schools and in the pre-K community -- an important foundation for board member effectiveness.
Fourth, Andrea is experienced in building and leveraging public advocacy -- a critical capability as state and federal educational spending continues to trend toward further constriction and other entities attempt to impose new costs upon the district.
And last but not least, Andrea is experienced in maximizing the return from every dollar spent, giving each of us assurance that our tax dollars will be spent smartly.
For further information on Andrea's experience and capabilities, please visit her web site at: http://andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com/. Should you have missed Wednesday's Forum at CHHS, Andrea has a standing date with the public on Thursday evenings at the Croton Colonial Diner from 7:30- 8:30 pm, affording an opportunity to meet with her and learn more about her background and the goals and innovative perspective she would bring as a board member.
Thank you in advance for your prospective support for Andrea Furey on May 19th. -- Joan Wilson, Croton, New York
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Edorsement from Donna O'Malley, A Letter to the Gazette
To the Gazette,
I am honored to be writing this letter for my friend Andrea Furey who is running for school board member. I have had the privilege of starting a Special Education PTA in the Croton-Harmon district with Andrea Furey. As a Co-President Andrea had many visions of what she wanted this Special PTA to look like and worked tirelessly at accomplishing this task in addition to being a working mother and wife. Andrea continues to maintain her passion for our entire school district and has expressed her desire to continue helping in the process of shaping our Croton-Harmon school district as a school board member.
I know Andrea to have a strong commitment to increased communication within our school district and also her desire to extend this transmitting of information fluidly between school district and village community. Andrea brought her strong background in Communications and Art to her volunteer work as a PTA President and I believe this background will also help in her service as a school board member.
Andrea has shown through her volunteer work to have an understanding of parents need for increased information concerning their children’s education and the ability to “know how to get information out to all parents”. This unique ability has helped in unifying many parents in our district. Her work as a PTA President has also improved the dialogue between parents, teachers, and administrators within our Croton-Harmon school district.
Andrea brings her passion for the arts to her volunteer work in our schools. She has been instrumental in helping design the mini-school calendar to reflect all children’s talent in our Croton-Harmon School district. She has a keen understanding of how art, music, and theater help prepare our children for the future.
I believe her desire to unite our village community and school community around common goals will be beneficial in helping our school district progress into the future. I feel that Andrea possesses an excellent understanding of the importance and impact our children’s education in the Croton-Harmon school district has on their abilities to become contributing members to society and impacts their global community.
I believe Andrea will continue to serve as a passionate advocate for all children in the Croton-Harmon School District. I whole heartily endorse Andrea Furey as a Croton-Harmon school district School Board Member and sincerely hope you will do the same.
Donna O’Malley
I am honored to be writing this letter for my friend Andrea Furey who is running for school board member. I have had the privilege of starting a Special Education PTA in the Croton-Harmon district with Andrea Furey. As a Co-President Andrea had many visions of what she wanted this Special PTA to look like and worked tirelessly at accomplishing this task in addition to being a working mother and wife. Andrea continues to maintain her passion for our entire school district and has expressed her desire to continue helping in the process of shaping our Croton-Harmon school district as a school board member.
I know Andrea to have a strong commitment to increased communication within our school district and also her desire to extend this transmitting of information fluidly between school district and village community. Andrea brought her strong background in Communications and Art to her volunteer work as a PTA President and I believe this background will also help in her service as a school board member.
Andrea has shown through her volunteer work to have an understanding of parents need for increased information concerning their children’s education and the ability to “know how to get information out to all parents”. This unique ability has helped in unifying many parents in our district. Her work as a PTA President has also improved the dialogue between parents, teachers, and administrators within our Croton-Harmon school district.
Andrea brings her passion for the arts to her volunteer work in our schools. She has been instrumental in helping design the mini-school calendar to reflect all children’s talent in our Croton-Harmon School district. She has a keen understanding of how art, music, and theater help prepare our children for the future.
I believe her desire to unite our village community and school community around common goals will be beneficial in helping our school district progress into the future. I feel that Andrea possesses an excellent understanding of the importance and impact our children’s education in the Croton-Harmon school district has on their abilities to become contributing members to society and impacts their global community.
I believe Andrea will continue to serve as a passionate advocate for all children in the Croton-Harmon School District. I whole heartily endorse Andrea Furey as a Croton-Harmon school district School Board Member and sincerely hope you will do the same.
Donna O’Malley
Endorsement from Sherry Horowitz, Director, Childrenspace preschool
To the Gazette,
I am writing in support of Andrea Furey's candidacy for Croton-Harmon School board member.
I first met Andrea when her son Jonathan joined our Childrenspace preschool program many years ago -- he's now a sixth grader. At that time, Andrea was a working mom who was grappling witht he revelation of her child's special learning needs and was just at the beginning of coming to grips with how best to help him move forward.
This can be a difficult time for parents. To her credit, not only did Andrea get her child the help he needed, she went several steps further. She started up a new Special Education PTA in the Croton school district to help other families deal with similar issues. It is so reassuring for parents new to Special Education to have a group of "veterans" that he or she can join! SEPTA also reaches out to the greater educational community by offering educational events for parents and professionals. Many of these presentations have been helpful to me. I have even referred some of my preschool parents to these programs, parents who do not yet have a connection with the Croton schools. It's been a wonderful way to introduce them to the "big" school!
Andrea did not stop there. She also became a volunteer Parent Member of the Croton-Harmon Committee for Special Education. We have sat together on various meetings, and Andrea has always been a supportive and positive presence for other parents.
I'm delighted that Andrea has been on the staff of Childrenspace since September. She is a natural teacher, and shows a genuine love and respect for all children. I think Andrea's strong connection with children, and her proven leadership in serving the educational community make her a perfect choice for School Board member. I hope you will support her in the upcoming election!
Sherry Horowitz,
Director, Childrenspace preschool
I am writing in support of Andrea Furey's candidacy for Croton-Harmon School board member.
I first met Andrea when her son Jonathan joined our Childrenspace preschool program many years ago -- he's now a sixth grader. At that time, Andrea was a working mom who was grappling witht he revelation of her child's special learning needs and was just at the beginning of coming to grips with how best to help him move forward.
This can be a difficult time for parents. To her credit, not only did Andrea get her child the help he needed, she went several steps further. She started up a new Special Education PTA in the Croton school district to help other families deal with similar issues. It is so reassuring for parents new to Special Education to have a group of "veterans" that he or she can join! SEPTA also reaches out to the greater educational community by offering educational events for parents and professionals. Many of these presentations have been helpful to me. I have even referred some of my preschool parents to these programs, parents who do not yet have a connection with the Croton schools. It's been a wonderful way to introduce them to the "big" school!
Andrea did not stop there. She also became a volunteer Parent Member of the Croton-Harmon Committee for Special Education. We have sat together on various meetings, and Andrea has always been a supportive and positive presence for other parents.
I'm delighted that Andrea has been on the staff of Childrenspace since September. She is a natural teacher, and shows a genuine love and respect for all children. I think Andrea's strong connection with children, and her proven leadership in serving the educational community make her a perfect choice for School Board member. I hope you will support her in the upcoming election!
Sherry Horowitz,
Director, Childrenspace preschool
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Croton-Harmon has New Superintendent
Karen Zevin, School Board Vice President, announced that Dr. Edward Fuhrman, presently Deputy Superintendent of the Nanuet Union Free School District would be assuming the role of District Superintendent for the Croton-Harmon Schools as of July 1st.
According to their website http://nanunet.lhric.org/: "Though we are the smallest of the eight Rockland districts, Nanuet measures up against the largest, as shown by our numerous and varied awards. We are the first district in Rockland County to have all its schools accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, an international agency that judges how well schools measure up against an independent scale of excellence. Additionally, for the ninth time in as many years, the District has been the recipient of the WHAT PARENTS WANT AWARD from SchoolMatch, a school-selection consulting firm. The George W. Miller Elementary School received national recognition as a BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE from the U.S. Department of Education. The New York State Department of Education named the A. MacArthur Barr Middle School as a TOP SECONDARY SCHOOL. And, the New York State School Music Association selected the District as the recipient of its PRESIDENTIAL CITATION for its dedication and commitment to music education.
"It is only natural that an award-winning district would be comprised of award winning staff members. Our most recent honorees include Nanuet’s Deputy Superintendent and Board of Education President, who received AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE from the Mid-Hudson School Study Council. Nanuet’s Director of Student Support Services and three of our Special Education Teachers were honored by the Young Adult Institute/Rockland County Association for the Learning Disabled for EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP and SPECIAL EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR. The New York State Alliance for Arts Education and the New York State Council of School Superintendents selected Nanuet's Superintendent to receive the SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT AWARD FOR ARTS EDUCATION LEADERSHIP. He also was honored in Albany for his long-standing support of after-school programming, making him the first superintendent to win the DISTINGUISHED EDUCATOR AWARD from the New York State Coalition for After-School programs.
According to their website http://nanunet.lhric.org/: "Though we are the smallest of the eight Rockland districts, Nanuet measures up against the largest, as shown by our numerous and varied awards. We are the first district in Rockland County to have all its schools accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, an international agency that judges how well schools measure up against an independent scale of excellence. Additionally, for the ninth time in as many years, the District has been the recipient of the WHAT PARENTS WANT AWARD from SchoolMatch, a school-selection consulting firm. The George W. Miller Elementary School received national recognition as a BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE from the U.S. Department of Education. The New York State Department of Education named the A. MacArthur Barr Middle School as a TOP SECONDARY SCHOOL. And, the New York State School Music Association selected the District as the recipient of its PRESIDENTIAL CITATION for its dedication and commitment to music education.
"It is only natural that an award-winning district would be comprised of award winning staff members. Our most recent honorees include Nanuet’s Deputy Superintendent and Board of Education President, who received AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE from the Mid-Hudson School Study Council. Nanuet’s Director of Student Support Services and three of our Special Education Teachers were honored by the Young Adult Institute/Rockland County Association for the Learning Disabled for EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP and SPECIAL EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR. The New York State Alliance for Arts Education and the New York State Council of School Superintendents selected Nanuet's Superintendent to receive the SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT AWARD FOR ARTS EDUCATION LEADERSHIP. He also was honored in Albany for his long-standing support of after-school programming, making him the first superintendent to win the DISTINGUISHED EDUCATOR AWARD from the New York State Coalition for After-School programs.
The Role of School Board, A Letter to the Gazette
An Open Letter to the Croton Community,
Last Thursday night was my first open candidate’s discussion at the Croton Colonial Diner. I had the pleasure to be joined by two ladies with equal passion for the school district, but with very different levels of experience. One was an educator who was the wife of a former board member, the other a singer-song writer who just moved to the district partly for our schools.
Discussion topics included educational priorities, how the district could best meet the educational needs of all children, the importance of providing a wealth of diverse activities as enrichment for children, funding, and what we’d like to see in a new superintendent. We also focused on what was is the actual role of a school board member.
Through my years of working with not-for-profits (the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Museum of Modern Art and the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts) I am well versed with the relationship of boards to staff, but a school board is its own unique animal. I think it is very important to have a good understanding of the role as you decide which candidates to support.
The New York State School Board Association printed the following in a pamphlet for prospective members: “What does a board member do? With children always their ultimate focus, school board members act officially only at the board table, working with other board members to accomplish the following: Create a shared vision; set student performance standards; oversee development of assessment programs based on those standards; account for student achievement results; adopt the annual budget, aligning district resources to improve achievement; create a healthy environment for work and learning; build strategic partnerships; sustain the district’s progress through continuous improvement; adopt and maintain current policies in written format; hire and evaluate the superintendent; ratify collective bargaining agreements; maintain strong ethical standards.”
In truth the board is an oversight committee of elected community representatives that exists to make sure the superintendent has what is needed to efficiently run schools in support of the district’s children and in synch with the community’s vision. It is the superintendent who develops the curriculum and the staff and is responsible for day-to-day operations.
While it is interesting to know the personal visions of school board candidates in regard to curriculum – they are not applicable to the job. It also must be remembered that no individual board member wields personal power. Each must work in concert with the full board to achieve any goal – majority rules -- so it is counterproductive to support a particular agenda that does not support the big picture for all children. A strong board member is one who can build consensus in support of the overall community goals for the schools.
I will be meeting again at the Croton Colonial Diner from 7:30 – 8:30 and hope you will join me. As someone who seeks to represent the community, I would like to hear as many perspectives a possible. It is my understanding that some of the other candidates may be attending as well. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me at andreafurey@msn.com, call me at 914-271-7640 or visit my blog: andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com.
Sincerely, Andrea Furey
Last Thursday night was my first open candidate’s discussion at the Croton Colonial Diner. I had the pleasure to be joined by two ladies with equal passion for the school district, but with very different levels of experience. One was an educator who was the wife of a former board member, the other a singer-song writer who just moved to the district partly for our schools.
Discussion topics included educational priorities, how the district could best meet the educational needs of all children, the importance of providing a wealth of diverse activities as enrichment for children, funding, and what we’d like to see in a new superintendent. We also focused on what was is the actual role of a school board member.
Through my years of working with not-for-profits (the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Museum of Modern Art and the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts) I am well versed with the relationship of boards to staff, but a school board is its own unique animal. I think it is very important to have a good understanding of the role as you decide which candidates to support.
The New York State School Board Association printed the following in a pamphlet for prospective members: “What does a board member do? With children always their ultimate focus, school board members act officially only at the board table, working with other board members to accomplish the following: Create a shared vision; set student performance standards; oversee development of assessment programs based on those standards; account for student achievement results; adopt the annual budget, aligning district resources to improve achievement; create a healthy environment for work and learning; build strategic partnerships; sustain the district’s progress through continuous improvement; adopt and maintain current policies in written format; hire and evaluate the superintendent; ratify collective bargaining agreements; maintain strong ethical standards.”
In truth the board is an oversight committee of elected community representatives that exists to make sure the superintendent has what is needed to efficiently run schools in support of the district’s children and in synch with the community’s vision. It is the superintendent who develops the curriculum and the staff and is responsible for day-to-day operations.
While it is interesting to know the personal visions of school board candidates in regard to curriculum – they are not applicable to the job. It also must be remembered that no individual board member wields personal power. Each must work in concert with the full board to achieve any goal – majority rules -- so it is counterproductive to support a particular agenda that does not support the big picture for all children. A strong board member is one who can build consensus in support of the overall community goals for the schools.
I will be meeting again at the Croton Colonial Diner from 7:30 – 8:30 and hope you will join me. As someone who seeks to represent the community, I would like to hear as many perspectives a possible. It is my understanding that some of the other candidates may be attending as well. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me at andreafurey@msn.com, call me at 914-271-7640 or visit my blog: andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com.
Sincerely, Andrea Furey
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Assessing the Budget, A Letter to the Gazette
Open Letter to the Croton Community,
As someone who has attended the school budget meetings over the past few months, I would like to congratulate the board, administrators and the many members of the public who got involved for wrangling out a budget that keeps our schools relatively strong, maintains important afterschool programs like intramural sports in the middle school AND comes in with a 0% tax increase for Town of Cortlandt residents (includes Croton) and a .067% reduction for Yorktown (the difference is caused by equalization rates over which the school has no control.)
Over the past months I’ve heard the board describe the budget as a philosophical statement of the district’s priorities. I think this is misleading and has caused some pain and concern among parents when it was assumed that cuts made in teachers or programs indicated that these people and programs were valued less than those that weren’t cut. In fact it appears that most were made for purely practical reasons – they would help save money and children could still receive a good education.
There is, however, a limit to how much can be cut before education suffers, and we’ve come very close with this budget. For example high school classes will be bigger next year with fewer choices when sections of key academic classes such as English and Social Studies are cut and the student body continues to grow. The student body will be growing in all three school buildings next year.
It is also emotionally wrenching to cut teachers – people who work hard for the welfare for our children and build strong relationships with our families and community. I believe that teacher cuts can never be taken lightly and should not and cannot become a regular tactic to balance budgets.
It is important for the community to remain engaged as we move on to next year’s budget which will likely be even more challenging -- and will be built under a new superintendent and board.
I am running for a spot on that board and I will do all I can to empower a grassroots community advocacy movement to thwart unnecessary, unfunded mandates from Albany, and to advocate for all possible government funding for which we are eligible to keep our taxes at a similar rate and keep our schools strong. I ask for your vote on May 19th and, most importantly, your help as we go forward to protect our schools and our quality of life.
I’d like to hear from you: andreafurey@msn.com, 271-7640, or visit my blog: andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com.
Or meet with me at the Croton Colonial Diner on Thursday nights from 7:30 – 8:30 pm. If you’d like to meet earlier in the evening than that, let me know. I’d be pleased to have any of the other candidates join us.
Sincerely,
Andrea Furey
As someone who has attended the school budget meetings over the past few months, I would like to congratulate the board, administrators and the many members of the public who got involved for wrangling out a budget that keeps our schools relatively strong, maintains important afterschool programs like intramural sports in the middle school AND comes in with a 0% tax increase for Town of Cortlandt residents (includes Croton) and a .067% reduction for Yorktown (the difference is caused by equalization rates over which the school has no control.)
Over the past months I’ve heard the board describe the budget as a philosophical statement of the district’s priorities. I think this is misleading and has caused some pain and concern among parents when it was assumed that cuts made in teachers or programs indicated that these people and programs were valued less than those that weren’t cut. In fact it appears that most were made for purely practical reasons – they would help save money and children could still receive a good education.
There is, however, a limit to how much can be cut before education suffers, and we’ve come very close with this budget. For example high school classes will be bigger next year with fewer choices when sections of key academic classes such as English and Social Studies are cut and the student body continues to grow. The student body will be growing in all three school buildings next year.
It is also emotionally wrenching to cut teachers – people who work hard for the welfare for our children and build strong relationships with our families and community. I believe that teacher cuts can never be taken lightly and should not and cannot become a regular tactic to balance budgets.
It is important for the community to remain engaged as we move on to next year’s budget which will likely be even more challenging -- and will be built under a new superintendent and board.
I am running for a spot on that board and I will do all I can to empower a grassroots community advocacy movement to thwart unnecessary, unfunded mandates from Albany, and to advocate for all possible government funding for which we are eligible to keep our taxes at a similar rate and keep our schools strong. I ask for your vote on May 19th and, most importantly, your help as we go forward to protect our schools and our quality of life.
I’d like to hear from you: andreafurey@msn.com, 271-7640, or visit my blog: andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com.
Or meet with me at the Croton Colonial Diner on Thursday nights from 7:30 – 8:30 pm. If you’d like to meet earlier in the evening than that, let me know. I’d be pleased to have any of the other candidates join us.
Sincerely,
Andrea Furey
Monday, April 20, 2009
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Announcing My Candidacy -- A Letter to the Gazette
An open letter to the Croton-Harmon community,
I (too) am running for a seat on the school board for the Croton-Harmon School District. Our schools, like our community and country, have reached a tipping point. Yes, we face uncertain and difficult economic times and challenges brought on by an increasingly global and stressful existence, but we cannot let discouragement set our agenda and determine our outcomes. An excellent school system is the backbone of our community. I think I could help strengthen Croton by holding a seat on the school board. This is what I bring to the position:
- Knowledge of our schools: I’ve had the privilege, with Donna O’Malley, to co-found Croton’s first Special Education PTA (CH SEPTA) in 2003. This PTA supports special education students from pre-school through high school, including those attending school out of district. We served as Co-Presidents until this fall, spear-heading many educational activities and initiatives in service of not only CH SEPTA members but the greater school and Croton community, for example a Mental Health Forum last spring. I have attended 50+ meetings as a Parent Member for the Committee on Special Education, again for students pre-K through high school, both in and out of district and now serve as CH SEPTA middle school liaison. These experiences have afforded me opportunities to work with the administration, teachers and staff in every Croton school and the district office, meet regularly with parents and hear about their individual concerns, and have given me a thorough overview of our children’s educational experience.
While special education students comprise but a segment of the student body, special education services comprise nearly 25% of the district budget.Some question if this is too much. In truth the entire system is strengthened and monies are saved when students receive the right support to be successful learners. I believe that I could bring important insights to the board and our new superintendent when discussing how to efficiently expend and allocate resources for the greater good of all the district’s children.
- Knowledge of our community: I moved to Croton ten years ago with my family in large part because of the reputation of its schools. After commuting for seven years, I transitioned to working where I live, which has given me a broader and deeper understanding of our town and neighbors beyond our schools. I have cobbled together a number of part-time jobs in which I am currently employed: Daycare worker for 3-5 year olds at Childrenspace, a full-day pre-school on Maple Avenue; Marketing and Public Relations consultant for the Croton Cortlandt Center for the Arts at Charles Cook Park; and Office Manager for the very busy physical therapist practice of Anne Samojedny, on Grand Street, which specializes in CranioSacral Therapy for adults and children, including those with learning disabilities.
- Skills and experience in communications, advocacy, fundraising and volunteer leadership: Before my present employment in Croton, I was Communications Manager and Director of National Art Programs for the home office of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for 17 years. In that capacity I was known for developing new ways to get our story across (http://www.faceofms.org/ is a site I produced) and utilizing programs –such as developing holiday cards through our art programs --to bring in new income through sponsorships and donations while raising awareness about our cause. Before that I worked in development as assistant director for the International Council at the Museum of Modern Art, an elite group of art patrons. I was integral in starting up the CH SEPTA parent network and helped develop its key fund raiser: the mini version of the district’s school calendar.
- Rapport with children: Our schools exist to support children, and I enjoy working with and spending time with them. In addition to my work at Childrenspace, I have been closely involved with my daughter’s Girl Scout troop 1198 which was formed ten years ago and still has a dozen participants; acted as co-producer of PVC’s musical this spring, Aladdin; and have organized a group of high school volunteers for CCCArts, for examples. I also developed and managed art programs for children across the nation who had loved ones living with MS for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
- Ability to work with people but not afraid to speak up: I have good relationships with the sitting board. In fact I was recruited to run. However, if you have attended recent school board meetings about the proposed budget, you will know that I have spoken out against teacher and modified sports cuts and have asked tough questions about resource allocations.
- Other relevant information: As a parent, community member and citizen I feel that it is my patriotic duty to do everything I can to help provide the very best schools and educational opportunities for our children – to the benefit of us all. My primary areas of focus for the school board would be: 1) to engage the community in advocacy on all legislative levels to improve our funding and thus keep our tax increases low and prevent future teacher cuts 2) to improve communication with parents and the community at large utilizing as many avenues as possible; and 3) to develop and expand volunteer community involvement in our schools to provide support and foster stronger relationships.
I invite you to join my campaign and would like to hear from you! On Thursday, April 23rd, and on future Thursdays, until the election on May 19th, I will be at the Croton Colonial Diner from 7:30-8:30 pm to meet the public, discuss issues and answer questions. I would be honored if any of the other candidates would like to join me. If you are not able to get out and would like to begin a discussion, please visit andreafureyforschoolboard.blogspot.com. I will post this letter and update the site regularly. I appreciate feedback and comments. I can be reached at 271-7640 (home), 539-2971 (cell) and at andreafurey@msn.com. I thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Andrea Furey
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