Thirteen candidates will be on the May 21 ballot
By Andrew Harris
SUN: Would you be agreeable to merging with smaller school districts like Scio, Whitesville, and Andover ? Why or why not?
HAGGERTY: The question of whether I’m agreeable to merging with smaller districts like Scio, Whitesville, and Andover is secondary to the more critical question: Is a merger in the best interest of our students? Central to this consideration are several crucial factors that warrant thorough examination.
First, the impact on student to teacher ratios demands careful evaluation. How would a merger affect this ration, and subsequently, the quality of education our students receive? We must also assess the broader repercussions on students, teachers, taxes, and our diverse array of programs and extracurricular activities.
Historically, mergers of this nature resulted in an initial increase in state aid over a short finite period, yet the question remains: Will this increase in funding adequately offset the expenses associated with accommodating a larger student body, increased staffing needs, expanded transportation requirements, and other operational costs?
Additionally, it’s imperative to consider the long-term implications for district taxpayers. While initial financial incentives may seem promising, sustained fiscal viability demands a careful look. Will a merger ultimately yield positive outcomes for taxpayers, or could it inadvertently burden them with unforeseen costs in the future?
Ultimately, my stance on a potential merger hinges on rigorous research and feasibility studies. I firmly believe that decisions of this magnitude must be guided by evidence and comprehensive analysis. Moreover, any proposed merger must garner a majority vote from district voters.
Whether I personally favor a merger is inconsequential compared to the goal of safeguarding the well-being and educational future of our students. As stewards of our district’s future, we should approach this discussion with diligence, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to the best interests of the stakeholders involved.
SUN: Wellsville has low test scores compared to the rest of the region according to the latest state reports. There are infrastructure improvements needed in the schools and buildings and grounds (including athletics) and we have a lot of teaching openings. There is also a budget to be done. What are your priorities as a board member?
HAGGERTY: Ensuring the health and success of our students stands as my top priority. Addressing the issue of teacher vacancies is paramount, as these gaps directly impact our students’ educational journeys. While substitutes serve a temporary role, their expertise often falls short, emphasizing the need for qualified, full-time educators. Nationally, the challenge of filling teaching positions exists across all education levels. Given our rural setting in one of NY states highest paying tax counties, intentional recruitment efforts are essential. We must go beyond merely advertising vacancies and actively recruit teachers who align with our school’s values and what our area has to offer.
While acknowledging the time sensitivity of the budget, it remains a crucial focus as it supports our ability to make infrastructure and facilities improvements and maintenance. As new and incumbent board members assume their roles the budget swiftly becomes a primary agenda item because it shapes the trajectory of our district’s development, sustainability, and success.
Concerns surrounding low test scores warrants attention yet requires contextual understanding. Research indicates a direct correlation between standardized test performance and socioeconomic status – a pertinent consideration in Allegany County, one of NY’s ten poorest counties. Many may not grasp the extent to which our students are affected by food insecurities and lack of resources beyond school walls. These factors coupled with community skepticism toward standardized testing challenge direct comparisons with other possibly more affluent areas. Additionally, when you look at the data, the performance of students with disabilities underscores the need for enhanced support mechanisms to ensure their success which effects the average scores of all of our students.
In summary, my priorities as a board member revolve around advocating for our students wholistic well-being, facilitating teacher recruitment efforts, navigating budgetary complexities, and fostering discussions around educational assessment methodologies. By addressing these areas, we can steer our district toward a future of academic stability and sustainable growth.
SUN: How do you explain the historic number of candidates for a volunteer school board spot ? What is the number one reason you gathered signatures and filed a petition?
HAGGERTY: The historic number of candidates vying for the three vacant school board seats is indeed remarkable, and while I wish I could say with confidence that each of the thirteen candidates is solely driven by a passion for our students’ well-being and the future of our school district, I cannot overlook the possibility of personal agendas or frustrations with specific people among some.
What I can state with confidence is my own commitment to this role. I am running because I firmly believe I possess the requisite experience, knowledge, and dedication to amplify the voices that might otherwise go unheard in our community.
As a parent with two children actively engaged in various aspects of their school community, I am acutely aware of the profound impact decisions made at the board level have on their daily lives. I am driven to ensure that the concerns and perspectives of our students are not only acknowledged, but central to the discussions and decisions shaping their educational experience.
Furthermore, I aim to be an advocate for our dedicated teachers who tirelessly support and educate our students. Too often, their voices are overlooked or overshadowed, and I am committed to amplifying their concerns and insights.
Equally important is representing the interests of the taxpayers in our community. Transparency and accountability in budgetary matters are paramount, and I pledge to advocate for that transparency in how school funds are allocated and utilized.
While I do not harbor illusions of single-handedly changing the world or even the Wellsville School District, I believe in the power of passionate individuals to effect meaningful change. If I’m given the opportunity to serve, I am committed to leveraging my passion and abilities to contribute positively to the betterment of our school district and by extension our community.
