A far-reaching forum at the Yerwood Center on Wednesday night allowed candidates for Stamford's school board to present their opinions on topics including the new curriculum, the superintendent's contract extension and what they consider to be the top educational concerns.
"Literacy is our No. 1 issue right now," said Angela Lorenti. She added that middle school reform and fiscal matters also are top priorities.
The candidates cited fiscal concerns and the achievement gap most often as important issues facing the school district.
"The achievement gap is serious and significant," said Geoff Alswanger, adding that there's also a "need to bring people together of all different sides." It was an opinion shared by John Leydon.
"We can improve the [Board of Education's] relationship with the mayor's office, with the Board of Finance, with the Board of Representatives," said Leydon.
Board incumbent Bob King cited the Strategic District Improvement Plan as "one of the [district's] greatest successes." The plan was implemented to improve achievement and scores on state tests. "At least we have things in place now which can be measured," said King.
Rich Lyons agreed the strategic plan is "a major improvement" for the district but said there's a need for greater scrutiny of school safety, health and nutrition issues, as well as increased parental involvement. "Parental engagement forums definitely need to be broadened, widened," he said.
Mike Bayonne said there should be more engagement by the school board. "I would like to see a more active board" that "asks more questions" and meets more often, he said.
Democrats Alswanger, King and Lyons; Republicans Bayonne and Leydon, and Independent Lorenti participated in this fifth and final forum of Board of Education candidates, presented by the PT Council. Republican incumbent Carmine Limone and Green Party candidate Megan Cassano were unable to attend.
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