I am a Hicksville resident for 11 years and currently have two children in the Hicksville Schools. I have had the pleasure to serve on the board of SEPTA (Special Education Parent-Teacher Association) with Joanne Owens. Mrs. Owens is up for re-election as a member of our board of education.
During this tumultuous time, it is extremely important that we re-elect those candidates with experience. Our budgetary challenges and the changing face of education require an individual who is committed to the ideals of our community. The ideals of providing a quality education for all children while keeping the budget affordable for hardworking families are at the heart of Mrs. Owens’ work as a trustee.
Mrs. Owens has kept taxes manageable. The new proposed budget reflects the lowest increase in 10 years. This is critical for every working family. Mrs. Owens has introduced new programs in our schools that increase our students’ skills such as SAT prep classes, Mandarin Chinese and American Sign Language. She works hard to secure an education for every child. Children of all abilities are currently receiving an education enriched with fine arts and sports programs that rival districts paying more than twice in school taxes.
Trustees like Joanne Owens will move our children into the future with the skills they are going to need to succeed with a tax bill we can all live with.
Lori Pietrafesa LCSW
