Hello Forum members and Happy New Year!
For many years, one of our local parent/community organizations has sponsored and run a Meet-the-Candidates night at our local community center prior to the school board election and budget vote. The event has not been well attended, and usually generates only moderate interest from the press.
Our district clerk and a high school teacher have been collaborating on an idea to engage more of the community in the BOE election process. The teacher, who also broadcasts our monthly board meetings, would work with our student ex-officio and student council, to do recorded interviews with interested BOE candidates and the videos would be uploaded to our website. This would allow the potential for more "views" without viewers having to attend a specific event.
On the one hand, I love the idea of students getting more involved in the democratic process and helping the community make informed choices. My one pause is, is there a chance the district is a little too involved in the electoral process by doing this? With the parent group planning and running the meet-the-candidates event, the district is more shielded from any appearance of partiality.
I'd love to know what you-all think and/or if your districts do anything similar to encourage school election engagement. Much thanks!
Paul Haggett
Massena CSD
Replies
Northport East Northport’s PTA Council hosts a Meet-the-Candidate night this is generally well attended. I agree with your reservation regarding a district hosting it. Enjoy the weekend!
Carol