Kelly Freeborn, 48, of Baiting Hollow is seeking her first term on the school board. She has been a district resident for 25 years, a mother of one kindergartener at Riley Avenue Elementary School and stepmother to three Riverhead High School graduates.
She is currently the director of student services and assistant principal at the East Quogue Union Free School District, which operates a K-6 elementary school. She holds a masters degree in educational administration from Montclair State University and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and communications from Rider University. She has previously worked as an elementary school teacher and as an elementary school principal at schools in New Jersey.
Why are you seeking election for the Board of Education?
I am passionate about education and believe I can make a positive impact by serving on the Riverhead Board of Education. I am dedicated to ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for every student. I will advocate for the needs of students, staff, and families with the ultimate goal of supporting our schools and fostering an environment where all students can thrive and succeed.
What would be your top three goals as a board member?
● Work collaboratively with staff, parents, community members and the Board of Education to ensure that our schools are providing the best educational experience possible for our students.
● Develop a long term vision for the district that anticipates and responds to the evolving educational landscape and ensures that students are provided with the best possible opportunities.
● Recruit and hire a superintendent who is capable of effectively guiding the district while prioritizing a strong educational experience for our students.
What needs the most improvement in Riverhead schools? How would you work as a board member to improve it?
Moving forward, the top priority is to appoint a district leader who can effectively collaborate with the Board of Education and the community, while remaining committed to the ongoing enhancement of our school district.
Do you think there is a district policy that should change? If so, what is it, why should it be changed, and how would you work on the board to change it?
The Regents weighting policy needs to be revisited, and the policy committee has initiated this process. Reviewing the data they’ve gathered would provide valuable insights into how I can contribute to helping with the solution.
In light of the recent turmoil and turnover in the district’s leadership, how would you, as a board member, ensure there is more stability in the school district’s administration going forward?
I believe it’s important to establish a transition plan that smoothly facilitates the shift from current leadership to the incoming Superintendent. This plan is essential to maintain continuity in the existing systems and processes within the central office.
What are your views on the school district’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives? What should the district be doing differently to reach out to minority and marginalized groups within the surrounding community?
Every student within a public school system deserves access to an education of the highest quality. I think building trust is essential in making everyone feel comfortable discussing their experiences and collaborating on solutions.
Do you favor the district asking voters to approve a capital construction plan to increase classroom capacity in the high school?
If not, how should the district deal with overcrowded classrooms? Each student deserves the opportunity to learn in a classroom environment that is not overcrowded. It is important that we equip both students and staff with the necessary tools to facilitate effective teaching and learning. My approach would involve gathering feedback and perspectives from teachers and administrators within the building to determine the most effective solution to this issue. Additionally, I would consider the long range planning studies on enrollment to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
What skills or abilities would you bring to the school board and how would you put these to work to improve how the board functions?
As a parent within the district and someone with over 25 years of experience in the field of education, I bring knowledge about educational trends, laws, and best practices. I am receptive to new ideas and adaptable to evolving circumstances within the educational landscape. My goal is to gain a deeper understanding of the Riverhead School District and explore avenues through which I can actively contribute to constructive conversations and initiatives.
Have you accepted contributions, either financial or in-kind (such as accepting the donation of literature, signs, phone bank staffing, social media services, advertising, etc.) from any source? If so please identify source, type and amount.
I appreciate the support of any organization that backs my candidacy. I have not accepted contributions from any source. My focus is on creating the best environment for our students and staff. I look forward to hearing from various groups to understand their perspectives and how we can work together to improve our district.
Read Brian Connelly’s responses.
Read about upcoming vote on proposed budget and proposition.
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