Candidate Spotlight: Anthony O'Brien

Anthony O'Brien is a Patchogue-Medford School Board of Education candidate running unopposed for the seat currently occupied by himself. Patch asked O'Brien and the other candidates five questions about the Patchogue-Medford School District.

Patch: Why have you chosen to join/continue on the Board of Education?

O'Brien: I chose to run for another three year term because I didn't feel that I am finished serving the School District. There is many changes happening in Patchogue-Medford and we have have come so far in the past three years - I wanted to see it through.

Patch: What aspects of your background give you an advantage in being a part of the Board of Education?

O'Brien: I am a very calm level headed person - my decisions are thought out and honest. I react well under pressure and I have no other agenda but to to do what is best for our students and our community. I have lived in this community for 41 years.. Patchogue-Medford is my "background".

Patch: What is the biggest issue that the Board of Education is going to face in the 2012-2013 school year?

O'Brien: Financially we are moving in the right direction... Not every school district on the Island can say that. Of course that doesn't make it any easier on our tax payers. One of the major obsticle that we face are the many Unfunded Mandates by New York State...  

Patch: Patchogue-Medford has suffered a lot of cuts due to state mandates, what kinds of programs would you want to bring back if you could?

O'Brien: This year we maintained programs and after the Board added $500,000 from our fund balance we were able to reinforce many of the the programs had suffered some setbacks because of the budget. If possible Librarians, Elementary Gym Teachers, Music and Business programs are a few of the programs that could be restored completely... as would more AP classes and even BOCES for our Junoirs.  That is why people in our community must let our Representatives know that State Aid for Education CAN NOT be cut and must be distributed fairly! The community can only carry the costs for so long.

Patch: What's one thing about the Patchogue-Medford school district that the public should know more about?

O'Brien: This school district has a long history producing smart, talented and GREAT students. The Pride in our students, faculty and our schools transcends generations. Patchogue-Medford... "Where Education is Met With Excellence."