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Four Questions For North Salem School Board Candidate Binette

NORTH SALEM, N.Y. – Jennifer Binette, who grew up in Maryland, earned a BA at Manhattanville College, where she studied International Business and Spanish. For several years she worked in Manhattan for Japanese and Canadian import/export companies. She has lived in the North Salem School District for more than ten years. Her three children attend North Salem schools, where she has been continuously involved in the school system. She has been president of the PQ PTO and served on the Principal Selection Committee, the Tri-State Consortium and as a member of the Mission Subcommittee. She has been a Girl Scout leader, and a soccer coach.

Jennifer Binette is running for North Salem school board.

Jennifer Binette is running for North Salem school board.

Photo Credit: Provided

What would you bring to the Board, based upon your life experience as a parent or community member, or in your occupation or profession?

I have three children in the 6th, 4th and 2nd grades. This position carries a three-year term, and during that time I will have one child in each of the three North Salem Schools. I have held numerous volunteer positions in an effort to enhance the educational experience of our children (see bio, above).

Last year, I was a strong supporter of reducing class size for the current fourth grade by adding a fifth teacher. After rallying parents, attending School Board meetings and speaking with the Superintendent, I was inspired when I found that change is possible. I feel my experiences in the school, on the playing fields and with District administrators give me a very unique insight into community members’ concerns as they relate to the NSCSD.

Considering the current budgetary limitations, what should the Board’s main priorities be?

One of the Board’s main priorities should be to obtain and to keep the best teachers, who inspire our children both in and outside the classroom while keeping in mind the economic well being of our community.

What special challenges are there in the North Salem Central School District and how would you address them?

North Salem Central School District is being faced with significantly lower than expected enrollment again this coming fall. Although, students benefit if this results in smaller class sizes, we need to ensure that we maintain quality teachers with the flexibility to move among grade levels if necessary to accommodate decreased enrollment levels.

Is there any particular project or program you’d like to see introduced to the educational system?

I do not come seeking a position on the Board with my own agenda. I want to gain an in-depth understanding of the current issues and bring concerns to the forefront that have been communicated to me. I want to distribute accurate information to the public. I look forward to hearing from North Salem residents and administrators on how we can all work together to have a positive influence on our community.

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