School Board Candidate: Christina Nadolne

Christina Nadolne is one of two candidates running unopposed for the two seats available on the Port Washington School Board. Karen Sloan, the current school board president, is also running. 

The election and school budget vote is Tuesday, May 21. Polls are open from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Find your polling location. 

Patch is speaking with both candidates about the election, and why they are running. Here is Nadolne had to say. 

Patch: What role have you played in the Port Washington schools as a parent of a child enrolled in the district? 

Christina Nadolne: Since I entered Salem Elementary School seven years ago [as a parent], I have been an active volunteer.  I started with helping out on a few committee's including the directory and Ladies Night Out fundraiser, and quickly fell in love with volunteering in the school.  I then moved on to more committee', the Compact for Learning Committee for Salem, and joined the Salem H.S.A. (Home School Association) Executive Board.  I am finishing my second year as Salem's H.S.A. president.  Before entering Salem, I volunteered with the Port Washington Parent Resource Center, and helped out whenever I could at my son's pre-schools. I am also active with the Port Washington Soccer Club, as a coach, and board member, and I work as a CCD instructor at St. Peter's.    

Patch: Why are you running? 

CN: Most people would answer the question "why are you running" with an answer such as to make a difference, or to be part of the process. I too, would agree with those statements, but the main reason I am running is to make sure as many voices as are speaking are heard. I try to not only give my opinion, but the opinions of those I represent. With a 5th and a 6th grader, I believe that I can be an advocate for the younger population in our schools, and help to advocate for a better education on the primary school level, and find creative ways to do this. With increased technological tools coming into the elementary school, we should be able to find economically responsible routes to help give the Port Washington children a great education and keep us at a competitive level.  Additionally, I am looking forward to working with [Port Washington School Superintendent] Dr. Mooney and her administrative team to keep a positive, and more unifying  feeling to Port Washington.          

Patch: What do you hope to achieve? 

CN: At first, I would like to learn as much about the process as I can. I know there are a lot of different issues that our district, like all in [New York State], is facing. I would love to see a more enhanced education in our elementary schools, which includes enrichment across the board, and a deeper understanding and love for learning.  With the new Common Core Standards coming into play, we have a great backbone to work with and then find ways to make this work to the best of our ability.  

Patch: Do you support the proposed 2013-14 budget? Why or why not?  

CN: I absolutely support the 2013-14 budget. The administration worked very hard to make this year one of fixing what needs to be fixed from years of cutting.  I am in strong support of the full-time librarians and very happy to see the security and technology are increased rather than decreased. With the past years of give back from the groups, including the para professionals, administration and custodians, and this years agreement with the teachers, we are able to start to look up and be proud of a budget, rather than be upset with more cuts.