Communication is key issue in Dist. 38 board race

Improving communication between the district and the community seems to be a main goal of candidates running for Big Hollow District 38 board.

Voters have the opportunity to select from two incumbents and five newcomers running for four open seats on the April 7 ballot.

The race pits board President Victoria Gallichio and board member James DeVito against newcomers Joe Bridge, Heather Janquart, James Jochheim, Margaret Mallahan and Julia Mazur.

Two other incumbents - Jan Carsella and Todd Wright - are not seeking re-election.

The candidates were asked their views in Daily Herald questionnaires and editorial board interviews.

Bridge said it is imperative the board communicates with taxpayers as effectively as possible though all means necessary as to why a decision is or isn't made.

"The school board is a public entity and it is their duty to provide accurate information to everyone who resides in their jurisdiction," Bridge said.

Jochheim said getting parents involved in the district is one way to increase communication between parents and the board.

"We should also compensate them with reduced or eliminated fees for tuition and books if parents volunteer time," he said.

Mallahan and Janquart said the district should discuss their accomplishments as opposed to just their needs.

"I feel that the veil of secrecy that the current board possesses causes questions to arise regarding their ability to govern the district," Janquart said.

Mazur feels it's best to actively engage parents and community leaders to create a "symbiotic relationship" with the school district.

"(We should) actively engage stakeholders... to be part of the school district process by providing opportunities for them to contribute through specialized committees," she said.

DeVito and Gallichio said the district has done the best job possible to get the community involved in the district and utilizes an open-door policy for any parents with concerns.

"When someone feels a certain issue is not getting the attention it deserves... he or she knows I can be contacted personally and that I will listen to any concerns, then direct him or her to the appropriate person or I will address the concerns myself," Gallichio said.