Syosset School Board Candidate: Robert Gershon

Four candidates are seeking election to the Syosset Board of Education, competing for three empty seats. 

The following was submitted by candidate Robert Gershon:

Work
I am an attorney in private practice.  Immediately after law school, I started work as an Assistant District Attorney.  Since then, I have been appointed as a Special Prosecutor by NY State three different times.  I have also served as a Bar Association Treasurer and President.  

How have you been involved in the Syosset School District?
I have been a member of the PTA since 2004.  I have often volunteered to work at recreational nights at school and have served lunch to the children on many occasions.  I have managed baseball for the Syosset Baseball Association for the last three years and coach football in the Long Island Flag Football League. 

Do you have children in the district?
I have a daughter in eighth grade at South Woods Middle School and a son in third grade at Robbins Lane Elementary School. 

What are the strengths of the current Board of Education?
There have been several key changes that have been implemented as a result of the last election.  Among the positive developments have been instituting Robert's Rules of Order and increasing the amount of time afforded to speak during Audience to the Public.  The current Board of Education, however, needs much improvement. Going forward, the Board needs to work harder to address school community concerns.  The Board also needs to stop "rubber stamping" items on the agenda without giving them full consideration.  Finally, the Board needs to find ways to save on costs and yet still maintain our excellent educational system here in Syosset.  

What are the things you'd like to improve if elected?
If elected, I would seek to greater participation from the community.  Often, parents are unable to attend School Board meetings due to parenting or work obligations.  I would suggest that questions and concerns could be submitted by email or regular mail.  In addition, we need to have more transparency.  Our community is tired of being left in the dark about what is going on in their own school district. We should also make sure not to exclude any parents of our children from major school events anymore such as Parent Visitation Day.  Lastly, I believe that we should look into parental concerns about "Go Math" and explore alternative methods of meeting educational requirements.

Are there any areas of expertise you believe you bring to the table as a candidate?
Right now, there are no attorneys on the Board.  I have over twenty years of experience advocating and negotiating for clients.  I would use my expertise to renegotiate big contract items such as busing, building maintenance, and attorney expenses.  

Final thoughts:
I am running on a ticket with Tracy Frankel and William Weiner.  We share many common goals and ideas.  Working together on this campaign over the last five months demonstrates how we are able to work well as a group.  This is vital to serving on a Board with nine members on it.  Tracy and Bill also bring a wealth of experience and knowledge that would serve this community well.