There are 15,000 students in Stamford Public Schools. But only about 45 city residents turned out for a debate Wednesday night among candidates seeking to determine policy [for the district] that will shape curriculum, human resources, achievement efforts, building upkeep and many other education issues.
Those numbers dont jibe for Danette Melchionne, a member of the Stamford Parent Teacher Council.
I wish more people had come, said Melchionne, a PTC co-vice president. There was great insight for the people who came here tonight.
Wednesdays event was the fifth and final public forum at which candidates running for Board of Education presented their views on the Stamford district and ways theyd improve it. The forum, held at the Yerwood Center, was the third hosted by PTC. Owen Nieberg, a council co-vice president, moderated.
Something as important as this, its not just for parents. Its for parents and the community, said Melchionne. It impacts the entire community.
Six of the eight candidates participated Wednesday: Democrats Bob King, Rich Lyons and Geoff Alswanger, Republicans Michel Bayonne and John Leydon and Independent Angela Lorenti. Republican Carmine Limone could not attend, although he has debated previously. Also absent Wednesday was Green Party candidate Megan Cassano.
David Bedell, Green Party coordinator for Fairfield County, said personal matters have prohibited her from participating in the forums.
Audience members said Wednesdays event offered a clear voting choice.
I thought it was a very good debate, said Naomi Taylor, who also attended the first forum. The information she received from candidates, she said, was enough to help me make up my mind.
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