To the editor:
I have read multiple endorsements for the April 19 school board election. I would like to voice mine from an insider’s point of view.
I have sat in on meetings, both public and private. I have seen who accepts administration recommendations blindly and who questions based on what will be best for our children. I have seen who serves as a mouthpiece for others and who has spoken for our children. I have seen who endorses increased spending and rising salaries and I have seen who has stood up for the taxpayer. I have seen who seeks the spotlight and I have seen who does the hard work.
Matthew Speesler has twice as much as any other candidate. He has been instrumental in rewriting the policy manual of the district. He has served tirelessly as chairman of the Policy Committee to ensure that our policies reflect the needs of the children. Dr. Speesler has also served as chairman of the Transportation Committee to ensure the safety of the children. He has represented several schools as liaison, including Brunswick Acres and Greenbrook.
Barry Nathanson has distinguished himself as a commonsense voice of reason. Only Dr. Speesler has more experience. Mr. Nathanson has served as chairman of the Facilities Committee ensuring adequate space for the children. He was instrumental in the planning and passage of the current expansion plan. In addition, he has served on the athletic oversight committee, ensuring that the children are put first when it comes to sports.
Both Dr. Speesler and Mr. Nathanson have sat through two superintendent searches, as wells as those for high school and middle school principals. They served with integrity when they stood up for an investigation of grade changes and they had the courage to withstand labor demands for excessive raises. They have been fair to employees as well as to taxpayers. Most of all, they have been examples of selfless community service.
It is with pleasure and gratitude that I urge everyone to vote for Matthew Speesler and Barry Nathanson on Tuesday, April 19.
Paul E. Prodromo
Kendall Park
Dr. Prodromo is a former member of the school board.

