LANSDALE – As much of the nation has turned their politically hungry eyes to the world of debates and presidential politics over the last several weeks, on the local level the North Penn School Board has five seats up for election next week, and on those five seats, of the nine total on the board, the balance of power between the Republicans and Democrats rests.

Incumbents John Schilling and Cory Brown seek re-election on the Republican ticket and are joined by former school board member Theresa Prykowski and new combers Patrick McGee and Ed Diasio.

Incumbents Carolyn Murphy and Suzan Leonard seek re-election on the Democratic side and are joined by Tina Stoll, Beverly Dodds, and Ben Littman.

With five seats open, a teacher’s contract set to expire in June, and still no budget from Harrisburg, this year’s election comes at a significant time with plenty on the table for the next school board to handle. The Knight Crier reached out to all 10 candidates in the race. The following is a preview of each candidate.

Carolyn Murphy – D
After over three decades of service in North Penn School District as a teacher and a school board member, Carolyn Murphy is no stranger to the district. Her life as an educator across the country provided her with indispensable experiences that can not be replicated.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

It is important that communities provide a 21st Century education for their students. It is vital that citizens step up and provide leadership for their local school districts. My child was blessed with a North Penn education K-12. I want to ensure that this continues for today’s children.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

The main issue is during these financial challenges to keep the fine education for all and yet not to raise taxes over the ACT 1 Index. Our many accolades prove that we have been able to do both. The day to day classroom education is what matters to me the most. We continue to excel and meet the needs of a diverse, school population. I also want to continue to see us rowing in the same direction: staff, administration, students, community, and the board. I just came from the PSBA Convention and schools that operate in harmony do much better. Our 9-0 vote on the teacher’s contract felt wonderful. I want to work on getting a funding formula for our state that is fair to everyone.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I have spent my entire life in public education. I have a BA in German from the University of Colorado and a MA.EQ. in linguistics from West Chester. I taught German in Illinois, Colorado, and 28 years in the North Penn School District. I have been on the International Friendship Committee since 1992. I was an Exchange Student Advisor at the high school until 2005. I have served on the ECP. Safe Schools, IU Board, and the Educational Foundation. My first term confirmed and strengthened my belief in public education. Public education is my passion and I am proud to have shared that passion with the North Penn School District in many ways over the last 40 years: Home and School President, North Penn teacher (28) years, Long-Range Planning Member, Middle States Team Member, NPAGE Officer, Exchange Student Advisor, and a North Penn parent. I believe my expertise and the experience of the last 4 years will make me a better board member for the next 4 years. Now more than ever public education needs people to become involved and care. I am a Democrat and a retired teacher. It is healthy to have differing points of view on any board. I often see things differently than my colleagues on the board. And yet we make progress.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

North Penn is fortunate to have a financial cushion during these difficult times in Harrisburg. However, should this impasse go on for months and months , we also will have to rethink our budget. The Intermediate Unit that serves us will have to start borrowing money in November should this not be settled by then. Many schools in our state are not able to meet their financial obligations now as they rely more on state funding than we. It is a priority of mine to help along with PSBA and the IU to forge a “Fair Funding Formula” for the state of Pennsylvania.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?

I feel I am the ideal candidate because my entire life has been in education. I have so much energy and expertise to put into this position. I am a people person. I enjoy looking at problems and finding ways to make things work. Excellence does not just happen. It is planned for, monitored and adjusted, creatively thought out, and then thought about again.

Suzan Leonard – D

Walking into Leonard’s office, the aura of professionalism and command for respect was immediately noticeable. With two former NPHS graduates assisting her, she is heavily interested and involved in student and community lives.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

I’ve been a school board member for past few years. I was elected in 2011. Prior to that, I have been trying to be on the school board. I’m very passionate about public education and I do a tremendous amount of volunteer work and service in the community. I think the school board is an important juncture, especially in this community, because our public education system seems to be disintegrating and I don’t want to see that happen in North Penn.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

I want to see us not keep the status quo. I think I want to see early learning in all-day kindergarten in North Penn. The earlier you start, the less expensive it will get in the long run. I also believe that the teacher contracts are always a big issue and I hope to smoothly transition from this contract to the next, perhaps longer contract.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I have been a school board member for past few years and I am a joint operating committee person of NMTCC. I’m on the board of North Wales library, American Association of University Women, and the Better Business Bureau of North Wales.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

I understand that teacher contracts are always a volatile issue, and I think it’s a shame. I think everyone should recognize each other’s quality and respect each other. I believe the people will work together and get the contract resolved. Last time, I was hoping it would be longer than a two year contract, and I don’t see why we put ourselves in this situation every two years instead of longer years. The contract negotiation begins in January so I don’t know yet what they want. As for my role, I hope I can be a voice of reason and have the wisdom to understand and make the best decision for the district and the teachers. Time has resolved a lot of issues already. Tons of hostility have disappeared already.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?

I really appreciate this opportunity and it is always a pleasure meeting the students. I think I’ve done a good job in past years and I look to continue to do a good job. I love the North Penn district and all the communities surrounding it.

Bev Dodds – D

Lively and energetic, Bev Dodds is a retired teacher who understands the importance of  education. Her involvement in the past as a teacher allows her to have insight into the life of educators as she seeks her first year as a member of the School Board.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

I think it’s an honor. As a retired teacher, I know how important it is for teachers, parents and the community to work together to ensure a quality education for all the North Penn students at a reasonable cost to taxpayers. I want to ensure that all resources go to the students in our schools and not to experimental ventures. I believe in the success of public school. Every effort must be made for all students to reach their potential towards a successful life. That was my goal as a teacher and it will be my goal as a school director.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

Education should start early as research supports children who learn early are more successful in their academic career. I would like to see all day kindergarten. Teachers would be able to target students with special needs earlier, the goal being to maximize individual student’s potential. We need to do a better job of promoting respect among all groups within the North Penn community. We are in the business of educating the future – let’s not shortchange the future.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I am a retired Special Education teacher with the Montgomery and Bucks County Intermediate Units. My classroom experiences include teaching English and Social Studies to middle school students at Anderson Alternative School and working with grades 7-12 at the Bucks County Youth Center. I have also served as a Democratic committee person for 25 years, Municipal Chair of Montgomery Township for 11 of those years, served on the Montgomery County Democratic Board as a secretary in 2002-2006 and the North Penn Democratic Board as second chair. I believe I am uniquely qualified to serve in the position of school director.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

There is no way to predict when Harrisburg will pass the budget. The North Penn District is one of the more fortunate districts in that we are not seriously affected by this now. North Penn receives about 17.5% of revenues from the state with local revenues accounting for 80.7% of revenue. As we all are, I am hoping that there is a budget passed before May. The last NPEA contract was settled very smoothly with little rancor, unlike previous contracts. I believe the fact that Carolyn Murphy and Suzan Leonard (Democrats) sat on the board helped as they promoted a more respectful and productive passage of the contract. The North Penn area consists of Democrats and Republicans but for years only Republicans were present on the board. They do not share my values as I believe that both the board and the teachers should sit respectfully at the table and come to an agreement without disrupting the community and vilifying the teachers.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?
It was truly an honor to be interviewed by the Knight Crier. As a former educator, I know that education is extremely important, and I believe I am well qualified for the job. My goal of all-day kindergarten and special needs help is shared with many people in the community. Vote for me, Bev Dodds, to serve you as the school board member.

Ben Litman – D

The youngest Democratic candidate is Ben Litman, who is a senior at Saint Joseph’s University. He wants to bring a fresh perspective to the school board and provide a more student-oriented system.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

School Board members are elected volunteers. If elected, I will not receive a penny for my time or work. I believe it is important to serve because of civic duty. I want to improve the North Penn community and improving a community starts with education. An educated area builds stronger and better communities.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

If elected, I want to work on developing an internship program at North Penn High School. Through this program, students can explore what they want and don’t want to study after high school. I am a senior at Saint Joseph’s University. Their Erivan K. Haub School of business, named after the prestigious Haub family, is internationally recognized and respected. They have a well defined, highly organized, and extensive network for internship programs. Imagine having that at the K-12 education level and entering college with some impressive internships on your resume.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I am a 21st century student and alumnus of North Penn High School. I went to General Nash Elementary and Pennfield Middle School. I understand what it is like to be a young person in today’s world better than anyone else running. I have an Associate in Arts degree in Psychology. In May, I will have a Bachelor’s in Food Marketing and a minor in Music. I will have three degrees from three different areas of collegiate study. I have been an education advocate for almost a decade. I have dedicated a large part of my short life to education and I want to do more.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

I cannot say what my role could be in the future. I am a candidate. On November 4th, I will know what I can do. All I can say is that, if given the opportunity, I will go to bat for North Penn School District. I will work to make the best decisions for the long term.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?

I don’t want to sound preachy, only honest. I have seen a lot of people from my high school days become waywardly prodigal. People who I saw in clubs, classes, lunches, etc. get into trouble. Drugs, violence, felonies, I have seen AP students turn into college dropouts. It’s truly sad. I remember walking to my 8am Biology lab at Montgomery County Community College and seeing a professor’s office door listing all the county’s high schools and their college dropout rates, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. And right before our final exam, which was a Monday, a classmate died. It was her 21st birthday weekend. She partied hard took a deadly cocktail of drugs and alcohol. She was the kindest classmate I ever had. She brought doughnuts to class, from Wawa, for everyone just because she wanted to make sure everyone ate something. My whole platform is pro-student. I want to help all students graduate and become something. I want to build an internship to provide an excellent accessible tool for students to gain experience and succeed. I know those examples are extreme. However, they happened and they are tragic.

Tina Stoll – D

A North Penn and Penn State alumni, Tina Stoll wants to make an impact in the communities that she grew up with. She looks to erase the undertone of political division within the school board and the community itself.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

I believe it is important to serve on the School Board, because I believe it is important for everyone to give back to his/her community if they are able to do so. There are so many important issues facing public education today, including funding and property tax reform, standardized testing, pension reform, charter schools, etc. It is important to have a diverse set of members on the board to represent all parties that have a stake in NPSD, including students, parents, teachers and taxpayers.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

One of my personal goals that I hope to accomplish if elected is to help improve the communication between the NPSB and all the stakeholders of the NP School District, including taxpayers, students, staff, parents, etc. With the election of two Democrats to the board in 2011, NPSB has become more transparent, and I and my Democratic colleagues hope to build on that accomplishment with this election. There are over 40,000 taxpayers in the district and approximately 13,000 students in NP and yet the number of people who attend school board meetings is usually in the single digits, unless there happens to be a problem of some sort. Part of that may be due to people being able to get some information from the district website, and by watching meetings on TV. However, I feel that the main reason for the lack of participation is because the board does not really encourage active participation in their meetings. My goal would be to reach out to the taxpayers association, to the Home & School organizations, Booster clubs, employees, etc. and encourage them to come to the monthly meetings, let us know what their concerns are, and what exactly is going on in individual schools that they would like the board to address. I would also like to see better communication among the board members themselves. Politics, at the federal and state levels, has become too polarizing. Even at the local level, it has become too adversarial. This was not always the case. We need to start working together again to allocate our resources wisely, to ensure that our district provides the highest quality education possible to help our students not only achieve but excel.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I am a North Penn grad and a Penn State alum with a degree in Accounting. Professionally, I am the controller for my family’s insurance agency. My children all went through North Penn and while they were there, I volunteered extensively in the schools. In particular, I volunteered with the 12th Knight Football Booster Club at the high school, and served as the treasurer for 2 years and the president for 5 years. Currently I volunteer as treasurer for both the American Association of University Women, Lansdale Branch, and for the Montgomery Township Democratic Committee. I’ve also attended NPSB meetings and subcommittee meetings for the past seven years, so I know what issues the district is currently facing and how the school board works, and would be able to hit the ground running.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in the process?

Fortunately the current budget impasse in Harrisburg has not yet had a negative effect on NPSD. However, if I am elected to the school board member of one of the largest districts in the state, I would band together with other school board members to strongly encourage our state representatives and state senators to work with the governor to make Public Education funding a top priority, and hopefully push the legislators to get the problem resolved. As for the contract negotiations with the NPEA, I would again encourage all parties involved to work together in a respectful way; the most recent contract negotiation, while late, did conclude on a positive note and I attribute that in large part to the fact that there are two Democrats on the board who championed a bipartisan approach to the negotiating process.

Theresa Prykowski – R

The power and impact of economy in the community is undeniable, as many people consider it the number one factor in choosing their home. Theresa Prykowski looks to continue the trend as she puts the emphasis on her economic expertise in her campaign for the school board.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

The importance of serving on the School Board cannot be underestimated. This position holds the future of the lives and success of our students in balance. For instance, it is the school board that decides what is ultimately used in our schools. The critical nature of this decision determines which curriculum best anticipates the needs of the future workforce and eventually decides which curriculum to use in the schools. We need people who care about the success of our youth, today and tomorrow.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

First and foremost, my goal is to maintain the achievement records achieved by our students while continuing to secure our position in Montgomery County as the district with one of the lowest administrative costs; the 5th lowest tax rate (out of 21 schools districts) in the County; and the 5th lowest cost per student in the County. This, in my estimation, should also elevate our position in the State as well as the Nation overall.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

In addition to my education, which includes an MBA and certification as a Project Manager, as well as various other master’s certificates, I’ve already spent the following years on the Board: 1991-1995 and 1998-2010. Along with my education, my family and I grew up in the area; my husband, myself, and our five children are all successful graduates of North Penn. And I am a small business owner in the community as well. I have the familiarity necessary to hold this position.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

Harrisburg’s troubles concern all of us. The existing Board and Administration have worked with our local State Representatives to advocate for a balanced budget that takes the current and future needs of our district and her students into consideration. However, with a lack of an appropriate funding formula, partisan political agendas, and the inherited poor fiscal decisions made decades ago, the budget stalemate is an immediate problem for whomever gets elected in November. The contract will be settled with the mission of the district considered as well as the goals of the community in mind. All of these competing interests must be considered while still balancing the true fiscal concerns of the very real challenges we face. Challenges like increasing pensions obligations, rising healthcare costs, charter school applications, unfunded mandates from Harrisburg and Washington, and a less than robust economy have impacted NP taxpayers since 2008.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?

Check out our website www.qualityeducationmatters.com. I believe that offering quality education at an affordable price is the best way we can help our children achieve success. My experience as a school director gives me the knowledge and background to lead North Penn toward an even brighter future. I know how to work as a team, build consensus, and collaborate. I understand the value that quality education gives students, their families, and our taxpayers. I was raised to recognize the difference between needs and wants, right from wrong, and what real respect truly means. I have these skills and wish to use them to better my community at large. I would appreciate your vote for me and my team, John Schilling, Walter Brown, Patrick McGee, Ed Diasio, and myself. Thank you.

Ed Diasio – R

Republican candidate Ed Diasio is new to the political scenes, but he is no stranger to the district as he serves the county as the law attorney. He hopes to bring his experiences in laws to further the continuous improvement in North Penn School District.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

I believe that service to the community is an important aspect of being a good citizen. Good schools serve as the gateway to success of the next generation. With so much at stake, I believe our school board should be made up of individuals who are qualified, open-minded, energetic, and committed to providing a high-quality education and meaningful experience for all students.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

One of my goals as a school board member will be to make certain that North Penn students are provided with the curriculum, technology, experiences, and other opportunities that will enable them to be successful in their pursuits after graduation. I will also work to increase communication between the school board and the public, including students, so that all interested parties are heard and have an opportunity to shape the future of North Penn. With careful planning and input from a diverse group of people, we can ensure that North Penn students are provided with an unmatched education and rewarding set of extracurricular opportunities, even with limited funds.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I recently graduated from law school and work as an education law attorney in Montgomery County. My clients are local public school districts, private schools, and other educational entities. Since my law practices focuses 100% on matters involving education, I help schools save money, provide students with rewarding educational and extracurricular activities, implement new forms of technology, and make certain schools are safe places to learn on a daily basis. I believe this background and the work I do every day make me particularly qualified to serve on the school board.

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

The current lack of a state budget and negotiating a new NPEA contract are issues that the school board that is elected on November 3rd will need to address. Both of these issues are important to student, parents, teachers, and taxpayers alike. That is one of the reasons why it is important to make sure the most qualified, open-minded, and dedicated individuals are elected on November 3rd. I am hopeful that a budget will be passed in Harrisburg by the end of the calendar year. As a school board member, I would work with our local lawmakers to make certain they understand that if a state budget is not passed, there will eventually be a great and negative impact on our schools. As for the NPEA contract, I look forward to taking part in the negotiation process. The process will be successful if all those involved work in good faith with respect towards one another; I am committed to this mindset.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?

I look forward to serving our local community on the school board. I invite you to visit my website at www.VoteDiasio.com to learn more about me. You are also welcome to email me at [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in your candidate profile.

John Schilling – R

Incumbent John Schilling is proud of the incredible records of the North Penn schools. As he seeks his re-election, Schilling looks to continue the Republican trend of focus on economic impacts of the election.

Why do you believe it is important to serve on the School Board?

I believe education is an important and essential building block in a successful and vibrant community. As an incumbent, I still see many areas where my experience and expertise can continue to be useful. Because of strong leadership and a highly qualified and dedicated staff, North Penn has some of the state’s best schools. This is an exciting and challenging time. We have terrific schools, but we will have to work creatively to keep them that way. The decisions we make, as a community, in the next four years will set the course for our schools over the next decade and beyond. We need a team that understands the importance of balancing a high quality educational experience with the taxpayer’s ability to pay for it. This is an essential step to keep North Penn moving in the right direction. I hope to continue serving the community and I am proud of the community I live in and the North Penn School District.

What are your goals for the upcoming term?

First and foremost, maintain the achievement records achieved by our students while continuing to secure our position in Montgomery County as the district with one of the lowest administrative costs; the 5th lowest tax rate (out of 21 schools districts) in the County; and the 5th lowest cost per student in the County. This, in my estimation should also elevate our position in the State as well as the Nation overall.

What experience qualifies you to hold this position?

I work as an Associate Real Estate Broker with Coldwell Banker Realty Corp in Lansdale. I graduated from Pillsbury college with a liberal arts degree and Calvary Seminary with a Masters of Divinity. I am an experienced member of the North Penn School Board and its various committees; presently the Chair of the Support Services/Facilities Committee and had also served on the North Montgomery County Technical Career Center’s Joint Operating Board for 8 years. I am married to , Cyndie, and have three children. My wife and children all graduated from North Penn. I am also an active member of Leidy’s church in Franconia

This is potentially a sensitive time for the NPSB. There is still no budget from Harrisburg, and in addition to regular operational responsibilities, the end of this school year will also be the end of the current NPEA contract. How do you foresee this all playing out and what do you see as your role in this process?

Harrisburg’s troubles concern all of us. The existing Board and Administration have worked with our local State Representatives to advocate for a balanced budget that takes the current and future needs of our district and her students into consideration. However, with a lack of an appropriate funding formula, partisan political agendas, and the inherited poor fiscal decisions made decades ago, the budget stalemate is an immediate problem for whomever gets elected in November. The contract will be settled with the mission of the district considered as well as the goals of the community in mind. All of these competing interests must be considered and while still balancing the true fiscal concerns of the very real challenges we face. Challenges like increasing pensions obligations, rising healthcare costs, charter school applications, unfunded mandates from Harrisburg and Washington, and a less than robust economy that has impacted NP taxpayers since 2008.

Is there any final statement regarding your candidacy you would like to make?

Please view our website www.qualityeducationmatters.com. I believe that offering quality education at an affordable price is the best way to accomplish our goals and we have proven that in the years I’ve served on the board. I would appreciate your vote for me and my team, Terry Prykowski, Walter Brown, Patrick McGee, Ed Diasio, and myself. Thank you. John

Patrick McGee

Republican candidates Patrick McGee and Cory Brown did not respond to information requests in time of publication of this article. Their detailed candidate profiles can be found on their website at  Republican School Board Candidates

Cory Brown