The Post-Star asked Brooke Clark and Kevin Kelly Sr. – running for one open seat on the Schroon Lake Central School Board –   about why they wanted the position. The election is May 17 2016, and is for a five year term.

Check out their answers to the Post-Star’s questions after the jump.

Brooke Clark

Address: 82 Skylark Lane, Schroon Lake

Education: Master’s in psychology

Occupation: Realtor

Age: 44

Current public offices held: Not offices, but in Lions Club and member of Schroon Lake Chamber, Ticonderoga Chamber and Adirondack Chamber

Past public offices held: Secretary, Red Cross, Schenectady Council

Do you have any relatives employed by the district? If so, provide details. No

Do you have any children enrolled in the district? If so, how many? I have one daughter, she is enrolled in third grade.

Why do you seek this seat? I have served and advocated for the educational needs of local community’s children for 15 years as substitute teacher, behaviorist, clinician and advocate. My election will allow me to continue this work. My knowledge and experience will help me provide leadership and build a vision we all can share in.

What is the most pressing problem facing the district and what would you do to find a solution? I believe in creating a long-term vision and providing opportunities students need to reach their full potential. We have tremendous teachers and staff and together we can reach these goals. Working together we can share in the knowledge and satisfaction that we provided for the educational needs of our children.

Kevin Kelly Sr.

Address: Schroon Lake

Education: Deer Park High School and SUNY Morrisville

Occupation: The New York Times, New York Daily News, International Paper—retired

Age: 59

Current public offices held: Schroon Lake Fire Department member

Past public offices held: Candidate did not respond

Do you have any relatives employed by the district? If so, provide details. My wife is the school nurse.

Do you have any children enrolled in the district? If so, how many? Parent of two Schroon Lake Central School graduates

Why do you seek this seat? To ensure students are provided with a wide variety of opportunities to reach their fullest potentials. I will assist by working closely with parents, children, the community at large, board members, faculty, staff and administration. “A great school district is a reflection of a great community. Schroon Lake has both.”

What is the most pressing problem facing the district and what would you do to find a solution? Declining enrollment. I would encourage collaboration with the Town Board to make available affordable housing so young families can settle in our district. It’s important to maintain strong academic programs, and continue to offer a full slate of extracurricular activities. Foreign exchange programs are also another important avenue to pursue.