Three vie for two open spots on board

CLARENCE - Elections often tend to take on a life of their own, becoming much more than just “Option A” versus “Option B.” More often than not, they work off a dynamic of picking between an incumbent’s past body of work and their visions moving forward, versus the fresh, often contrary views of a newcomer and the impact they hope to make. As further proof that no election is quite alike, the May 15 vote for two Board of Education seats will feature two incumbents working to keep their positions against one charging “newbie.”

The incumbents John Semler and Susan C. Altman will be seeking re-election after completing their 16th and 6th years on the board respectively. Both understand the importance of continuity and dedication going forward.

“My abilities and enthusiasm will enable me to help all the consitituencies,” said Altman, the mother of three, “effectively evaluate advances in education and responsibly allocate and integrate needed resources and technologies.”

Such dedication isn’t possible without perseverance and sacrifice, as Semler remarked in his statement on the district: “The Clarence School District delivers a rigorous, balanced educational program with student performance routinely ranking first, or second in the region while simultaneously being among the most cost effectively run districts. However we as a community face difficult choices ahead if we are to maintain the program excellence we expect in the face of state mandated tax levy limits.”

Supplementary to his work on the board, Semler has a doctorate degree in chemistry, has held the role of president of Erie County Association of School Boards, and is currently serving as president of Promoting Partnerships in Education

Finally, the newbie Michael Fuchs, who has worked with Rich Products as Director of Finance after earning an Executive Master of Business degree from University at Buffalo has come into this election looking to somewhat uproot the system in place and implant his fresh perspective and goals. With two students at Sheridan Hill, his interest and investment in the success of the school district goes just as far as the incumbents he’s up against.

“Recently, this quality of education, which defines not only the students it serves but the community as a whole, has faced significant cuts…we must work together to find creative solutions to maintain the programs that make Clarence unique.”

From the comments each candidate has made, it’s clear that each realizes the positions that they vie for provide no easy task.

Although Fuchs somewhat opposes Semler and Altman with his comments, it’s key to note how each candidate notes the obstacles that lie ahead with budgetary cuts coming and further difficulties surely en route in the near future. Perhaps this vote isn’t so much the past views and efforts of the incumbents versus a newbie, but rather who we think will best manage the resources and programs at hand to provide what’s really best for our children.