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2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Lucy Accardo
DBN: 28Q686
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
IEP: Yes
ELL No
24Q087
No
No
24Q087
No
No
I have been part of the Parents Association, School Leadership Team, Community Education Council,
Chair for the Special Education Committee. I am also a very active member of the community. I help
raise awareness on the Special Education Process for parents that cannot find their way. I have 4
children that encompass all of the different student populations.
As a mother of four children in the NYC Public Schools and an alumni of only NYC public and
CUNY schools from age 5 through Graduate School, I am passionate about the fact that children do
receive an excellent education through the NYC Public School education. I do know that it can be
overwhelming at first for parents who are not familiar with the NYC Dept Of Education and enjoy
advocating for parents who want their voice to be heard, but do not know where to begin. Having been
through that experience with my first child, I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed and lost and
feel that as a parent, I have limited choices. I am here to teach parents that they have more choices than
they know and as a parent advocate, that is my role. To pay it forward and encourage parents that their
voice COUNTS. To create positive change for our education system, to contribute to community and
our children's future through the Community Education Council.
Bertha Asitimbay
DBN: 24Q019
IEP: No
ELL No
24Q019
No
No
Applicant I'm a volunteer in the leadership group of my child school. Also I participate In Make the road New
Background York In the Parents Committee and I'm an English Language Learner.
Personal
Statement
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Page 1 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Matthew Bologna
DBN: 24Q049
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
IEP: No
ELL No
24Q049
No
No
Through-out my life I have sought out opportunities to contribute to the community within which I live,
from my ?time as a Boy Scout rebuilding a derelict community center, to now, as a Boy Scout leader
sharing my love of the?outdoors with a new generation of Scouts. For a time, I volunteered as a
midnight run missionary with the Catholic delivering food and clothing to those in need throughout the
NYC. For me, connecting with the community in some fundamental way drives my desire to
contribute. Forged in these experiences, I extended my time to the community, not least of which
includes as a member of the CEC, but equally in the capacities of scout leader and baseball coach. It's
these opportunities I cherish most, because when I reflect back on how my father gave of his time to
enrich my life, and others in the community, I realize the profound impact his giving had on shaping
my character (for the best I would say).
In my inaugural year as member of CEC24, I gained incredible insight as to the types of issues our
schools face. I find that we do not focus enough on the content of our children's education. In
particular, the arts, sciences, and technology. There's an opportunity to develop enriched curricula for
inspiring our children’s interests in these subjects. Music, an art form appreciated by most, has deep
roots in mathematics and physics. The point, we can use the medium of art to teach science and vice
versa; thus, increasing our children’s exposure to these subjects, and more importantly reenforcing
learning. Why the passion, in a nutshell, I am former cancer research Chemist, turned Computer
Scientist, Wildlife Photographer, and Bassist. The arts and sciences run deep in my veins. As a life-long
student of the arts and sciences, I find there’s always that unseen curiosity around the next bend, and I
would like to continue to be a factor in fostering the intellectual curiosity of the current generation of
students; perhaps, in some fundamental way, I may contribute to their educational experience.
Maria Cabrera
DBN: 24Q019
IEP: No
24Q061
No
Applicant Co-secretary of the PA at PS 19. Secretary of the PTA at IS 19.
ELL No
No
Background
Personal I'm running for this position to that I can show support and have a voice that represents our district.
Statement
Candidate
Salvatore Carollo
DBN: 24Q113
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant Been a past CEC member, also help coaching baseball, softball and basketball for the CYO.
Background
Personal I believe that the voice of the CEC is needed, in order to support the countless parents and community
Statement members who come to CEC meetings looking for help in resolving a school related concern. I also
encourage all parents to get involved with their childrens education.
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Page 2 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Glendaliz Castro
DBN: 24Q071
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
IEP: No
ELL No
24Q093
Yes
No
As a member of the SLT I have analyzed our students academic data for reading and math and provide
feedback on curriculium materials that should be used to address the acheivement gaps and strategize
the needs of the students with the teachers practice. In addition, I have assisted in the development of
our schools high academic expecatations. I was success in this process because I have a clear
understanding of the alignment of our various accountability tools. ( Quality review, CCLS, Citywide
instructional expectations and the Capacity framework for great schools).
Due to my core values and unconditional commitment to education I am confident that I am the best
candidate to represent the families we serve in District 24. As a single parent that relocated from Puerto
Rico, I understand the challenges our community faces on a daily basis. It is my belief that education is
the ONLY key to success. A quality education will assure that our students are able to create viable
career options that will allow them to have a positive impact for their family. As a single mother, I was a
parent that was employed by two different companies and I did not have the opportunity to be involved
in my children's education. Our family time was very limited due to my work schedule, however I
created a family support structure to asist me with assuring that my children were able to complete their
school assignments and participate in their school activities. As a CEC member, I will assure that not
only are our parents voices heard, but their concerns are addressed with actionable feedback and
authentic follow up.
Carl R. Chiaramonte
DBN: 24Q049
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant At present time I a currently serving on the PS/IS 49 (24Q049) School Leadership Team (SLT). I have
Background been an active member of the team for the last few years. I have been there serving with 2 different
Principals and have worked closely with Distrinct Superintendants, Family Advocates and civic leaders
to help maintain the high academic standards of PS/IS 49. We have battled through admissions process
hardships and are awaiting anxiously a second extension onto the school that I have personally fought
for to help alleviate the overcrowding. I am also presently serving as an active member of the
Commuity Education Council for District 24. I have worked closely with the PS/IS 49 administration in
helping to lobby and push through an extension onto the current shcool. I have attended multiple joint
public hearings, as a council representative, that are mandated before changes are made to the City's
schools.
Personal I am presently employed by the New York City Police Department as an Operations Supervisor. I
Statement oversee 10 plus maintenance locations and am co-responsible for the repairs of over 800 plus city
vehicles. I have been with the city for 16 plus years. I am married with 3 beautiful daughters, two of
whom are presently in the NYC Public School System, a third to enter in 2 more years. I hold a
Bachelors of Science from Manhattan College in Education. I thoroughly enjoy serving on my schools
SLT team anfd the Districts CEC team. I feel these opportunities afford us as parents a way to help and
nurture all children in the school system and not just our own. As a parent who will be enjoined with
the DOE for many years to come I look forward to serving this city with great enthusiasm.
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Page 3 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Henry Choi
DBN: 24Q119
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I was formerly the Director of Public Affairs for the Union Square Partnership, a non-profit Business
Background Improvement District with the mission of making Union Square a safer, cleaner, more enjoyable public
space. While there, I was actively involved with our organization's attempts to improve the conditions
for our local High School (Washington Irving). We sought partnerships to increase local participation
in our students' lives such as linkages with theater companies and real estate concerns. We successfully
created and funded a computer center, after-school center and college counseling for the High
Schoolers.
Personal I am the father of a wonderful daughter who has started her journey through the NYC Public School
Statement system. Both my wife and I are immigrants: she from Ireland, I am from S. Korea. I am also the
product of a NYC Public education and wish to give back to the schools that gave me a great start and
an essential set of skills to navigate our modern city. I have experience in engaging with a wide range of
stakeholders having formerly worked at a community organization (Union Sq Partnership) that
coordinated with public and private groups. My time there was often spent improving the students'
experiences at the local High School (Washington Irving) through our programs geared at increasing
local individual and institutional participation at the school. I am thankful for the opportunity in
assisting all of our kids' educational experience.
Candidate
Nick Comaianni
DBN: 24Q113
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant
Background
Personal I have served on the community education council for 11 years as its president . Its been an honor for
Statement me to have done so . this will be my last term. if elected and I will try to finish what i started out to do.
Thank You
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Page 4 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Sol Concepción
DBN: 24Q007
IEP: Yes
ELL No
Applicant My name is Sol Concepción I am a former elementary school teacher turned stay-at-home mom with
Background two daughters currently attending Pre-K and Second Grade in Elmhurst, Queens. I have taught the 4th
grade and K-5th grade Spanish here in the city. I am currently very active in our seven-year-old's school,
PS 7 in Elmhurst. I have served in the Parent Association Board since 2012 I'm currently the
Recording Secretary of our PA, member of the Title I committee, and parent member of the SLT at
our school.
Personal I have decided to run for a seat in the CEC because I strongly believe in the public school system.
Statement Being active in our children's schools is part of our family’s commitment to being intrinsically involved
in our community and its development and betterment. It's our goal as parents to raise our children to
understand what it means to be part of a community. This includes finding common ground with our
neighbors to work toward creating a safe, positive, and nurturing environment that leads to a high
quality of life for all. I want to know that I am contributing in a positive way to the environment where
our children are growing up. I am a firm believer in raising my voice for those who might not be heard
and I want to not only teach my children but show them what citizenship and humanity look like in
action.
Candidate
Kedeshia Constantine
DBN: 24Q330
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I've accumulated a minimum of 180 hours of observation in a Junior High School and High School
Background classrooms as a college course requirement as I gathered notes and reflect on the experience.
Personal
Statement
Candidate
Iris Coreas
DBN: 24Q013
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I have been attending PTA Meetings at my daughter's school since school has started.. When I was in
Background College I was the President of the Criminal Justice Club as well as Student Government. In high school
I was also involved in Clubs and I would actually get more kids involved into clubs, as well as being
more involved in school.
Personal My name is Iris and I would love to be involved in leadership at NYC schools. I am a single mother
Statement and it would be a great opportunity to be part of this leadership program. I can gain access to see how
the school sin NYC works as well as help any other kid be very involved in school and not give up. I
also work with the kids in church from ages 4-14
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Page 5 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Jacqueline Fiesta
DBN: 24Q071
IEP: No
ELL No
DBN: 24Q128
IEP: Yes
ELL No
24Q128
No
No
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
Antonio Fratto
Applicant
Background
Personal Hello, I have worked for the past 19 years in school districts in Westchester County. I am a very
Statement involved parent with a Special Needs child. I always advocate for her .This position will allow me to
broaden my horizons so I can advocate for other children in the district as well. Hopefully I am given
the chance with CEC.
Candidate
Miriam L. Gomez
DBN: 24Q068
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I voluntered since kindergarten ,1st.,2cnd.,and third grade with school trips,helping in class,and field
Background day events.
Personal I strongly feel Common Core highly needs to be taught daily. The common core way. The common
Statement core vacabulary is indeed expressive with words in which are not used daily in the school,therefore the
child suffers from understanding a sentence which throws the whole story off and leaves child confused.
Etc.
Candidate
Fanny Lema Jerez
DBN: 24Q061
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant PTA Treasurer for IS 61 Leonardo DaVinci. Volunteer for Learning Leaders at IS 61 Leonardo
Background DaVinci
Personal My goal in participating in the prestigious leadership team was to support and find solutions and
Statement assistance for my district. Ultimately, to make progress and obtain a better future for the students in this
community, and students in general.
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Page 6 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Carol-Ann Kurdziel
DBN: 24Q091
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I am currently a member of the School Leadership Team at P.S. 91 Q.
Background
Personal The education of the next generation is paramount to the continued success of our city and, ultimately,
Statement the nation. I am a product of the New York City public school system and was adamant that my son
receive the same education I did. It is not a perfect system, however, and I feel that parent involvement
is the key to every child's success. It is for this reason I would like to serve on the Community
Education Council in District 24. I am interested in creating a system wherein every parent is
continually informed and updated on changes to the curriculum and provided with the tools they may
need to aid their child in their academic endeavors. I look forward to helping in any way I can. Thank
you for your consideration.
Candidate
Mirian Lucila Landi
DBN: 24Q016
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant Since my daughter enrolled in kindergarten at PS 16, I have dedicated myself to volunteer in order to
Background achieve the educational well-being of children. I have been the Vice President of the PTA for PS 16,
where collections have been made to meet certain needs of students. I also had the opportunity to
conduct university-level work in this same educational setting. While I completed my university handson work, I also focused on the needs of disadvantages children. Currently, I am part of the SLT and
the Vice President of the PTA at PS 16Q24.
Personal Being part of the PTA at PS 16 for more than 5 years has made me feel that I need to do more for the
Statement education of my daughters and other students in the district. It is for this reason that I have decided to
be a candidate for the Community Education Council. I had the opportunity to volunteer for two
consecutive years in and out of the classroom. As Vice President of the PTA, I participated in the
collection of funds that were very successful and which served to benefit the students. Additionally, my
vocation in education led me to partake in classrooms to conduct my university-level work. Two years
ago I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree from Queens College, which allowed me to work with
students, helping them with their homework. It is from this perspective that I see the need to help the
educational community and, for this reason, if I'm elected, I would work for the betterment of our
children in the public schools.
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Page 7 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Stephen Layne
DBN: 24Q091
IEP: No
ELL No
24Q091
Yes
No
DBN: 24Q091
IEP: Yes
ELL No
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
Abelardo M Liendo
Applicant
Background
Personal I want to serve on a community education council because I feel that as a parent of two children
Statement attending a NYC Public school it will give me an opportunity to repay the efforts of the school system.
Being fluent in both english and spanish, I am able to reach out to a community that is underserved
and help to give them a voice. Quiero servir en un consejo comunitario de educación porque siento
que como padre de dos niños que asisten a una escuela pública de Nueva York me dará la oportunidad
de pagar los esfuerzos del sistema escolar. Fluente en inglés y español, soy capaz de llegar a una
comunidad que está mal atendido y ayuda para darles una voz.
Candidate
Daisy Linares
DBN: 24Q061
IEP: No
ELL No
DBN: 24Q239
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
Jane Lima-Negron
Applicant I have been involved in advocacy campaigns for school health programs.
Background
Personal I am interested in joining the Community Education Council because I would like to contribute in the
Statement efforts to maintain a nurturing school environment.
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Page 8 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Maria Majette
DBN: 24Q239
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I'm always involved in my child's education and support any school activities..I'm well know by many at
Background the schools.. I Was involved for 6 years for Coalition for Hispanic services in Ridgewood NY.. Is a
foster care and adoption program. In which I'm a proud parent of adopting my 3 children.
Personal As a parent of three and one with special needs, my children are adopted and being involved in thir
Statement lives I had to participate in many of the resources given. I'm also a health care provider for 18 years and
the last 8 years I did pediatric care in a hospital setting for NYU hospital for Joint Diseases. Children
are my life and I personally feel that I can contribute much to an school in order to bring much
improvement where is needed and not afraid to voice my opinions when time is needed..
Candidate
Diana Molina
DBN: 24Q113
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I worked for almost two years at the Children's Learning Center at Hunter College as a teacher assistant
Background and parent liason. I worked with kids ages 2.5-6 years old. Now I work at Make the Road NY serving to
latino community thru the adult Literacy program.
Personal I want to serve on a Community Education Council because I want to help improve our Educational
Statement System as is the foundation for our kids future and the city. I want to be more connected to the
decision makers that affect my kids and many others. I feel I will be effective because I have the right
skills and experience.
Candidate
Arlenis Morel
DBN: 24Q091
IEP: Yes
ELL No
Applicant I'm currently serving on the CEC for District 24 - I've been serving as a member of the CEC for the
Background past year and half, I also work in a Community Organization that provides advocacy and community
organizing in Queens, Brooklyn & Staten Island, the organization is called Make the Road NY.
Personal As parents, there is nothing more important than our children, and being involved in a CEC formalizes
Statement that commitment and also the responsibility we have to our kids and our community at large. As a
mother of two who works full time I know the kind of constraints on our time, but I stay actively
involved because I believe that parent engagement and leadership is the way to make the change we
want to see.
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Page 9 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Jennifer M. Ochoa
DBN: 24Q089
IEP: Yes
ELL No
Applicant During my collegiate career, I was in the Early Education Program at Queens College and was a
Background student teacher volunteering in the Queens public schools. I have also volunteered at Elmhurst
Hospital as an interpreter, food vending in the community sports program of St. Bartholomew's School
and, presently, I am a parent volunteer at PS 89 Queens.
Personal I feel strongly that parents must take an active role in their children's education. The foundation begins
Statement at home and with the united effort of the parents, educators, schools and community, we can provide
our children with support, knowledge and opportunities. All students should have the same
opportunities no matter differing individual needs or lack of funding. It is our duty to advocate for our
children and their future.
Candidate
Maria Quiroz
DBN: 24Q061
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant Current PTA president of Leonardo DaVinci and member of the school leadership group. In PS 19Q,
Background I was part of the Parents' Association for 6 years.
Personal The reason for applying for this position is to represent the parents of this district, have their voice
Statement heard and make known the needs that we have in the schools in our community. And, more
importantly, to work for a good education for our children, which is the future of each one.
Candidate
Reinaldo Rivera
DBN: 24Q005
IEP: No
ELL No
DBN: 24Q110
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
Dionica Romero
Applicant I am the PTA president for my son's school and, as president, I'm required to participate in the
Background leadership team. I participate in the parents in action committee within Make the Road New York.
Personal
Statement
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Page 10 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Claudia Mercedes Rueda
DBN: 24Q016
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I have been the Treasurer of the Parent/Teacher Association for Public School 16 for four years. Up
Background until now, I have managed the collected funds with integrity for the benefit of the school's students.
Additionally, I have looked for ways to instruct students on topics that currently threaten them like, for
example, bullying which affects the integrity of all of the students in the school. The instruction was
done with the use of clear, short and substantive presentations.
Personal I, Claudia Rueda, declare myself a good candidate for membership in a Community Education Council
Statement due to my integrity, commitment and discipline. I see that my community needs the collaboration of
dedicated individuals, like myself, in order to find solutions for the betterment of the academic
performance of our children. My community lacks many necessities, especially when it comes to
education. This is why I consider myself an integral candidate for this committee. 99% of the
population of this district is Hispanic. For this reason, we need Latinos on these committees;
individuals that know the community's needs.
Candidate
Angelica Salgado
DBN: 24Q143
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant Exam currently the PTA presidentt of PS143. As the PTA president, I coordinate monthly meetings of
Background parents,I conduct outreach and serve to inform and voice concerns of parents directly to the school. I
also volunteer in various capacities whether serving in the cafeteria or assisting admistrative
personal.Icoordinate fundraising and family activities to promote engagement.For example I recently
completed a Learning Leader training to be able to further assist children. I am a parent of 3 children
in District 24 and proudly volunteer my time for the betterments of PS143.
Personal I would like to serve on the CEC to bring my experience and desire to strengthen education
Statement opportunities for all children in District 24.I am Spanish bilingual, a PTA president and parent
volunteer, I strongly believe that as parents we can make a difference in our children's academic
success. My children are English language learners and I understand the struggle and challenges of
many families when participating in their child education.I would be an asset to District 24's CEC.
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Page 11 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Sheila Smith Gonzalez
DBN: 24Q113
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I am currently a principal in the Catholic school system in Queens. I have four children, two who
Background attended Catholic schools and two who now attend Public schools. I am concerned about education in
my community. I am active in the Glendale area and I am the parent volunteer coordinator of the
Moves and Motions dance team. My experience as an administrator gave me the opportunity to work
in a low income community The students were almost all ELL's, many new immigrants to the United
States. I understand the challenges that face students whose home language is not English. I also
understand the concerns and challenges of parents who are new to the country and understanding the
school system.
Personal I believe that all children deserve an excellent education in New York City. Our young people are the
Statement future of our city and nation. It is a just mission to work to ensure that every child has the opportunity
to be their personal best and to benefit from a quality educational environment. Our families deserve a
welcoming school community, staffed with dedicated educators and personal who understand the
students and community they serve. Working together: educators, parents and students we can create
an excellent educational system.
Candidate
Barbara Syversen
DBN: 24Q153
IEP: No
ELL No
24Q153
Yes
No
Applicant
Background
Personal I am a parent of 8 year old twins. I have one in the Talented and Gifted program and one with an IEP.
Statement Not only can I relate to parents of children in either of these categories, but I can also relate to the
needs of the English Language Learners because I grew up in an non-English speaking household. I
believe children benefit most when parents, educators and communities work together.
Candidate
Maryann Testa
DBN: 24Q091
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant
Background
Personal As a parent of a child just entering the public education system of NYC, I would appreciate the
Statement opportunity to be involved in the review and evaluation of the education process. I have spent 25 years
in the work force analyzing and evaluation data, as well as working with the public.
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Page 12 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Maria Torres
DBN: 24Q330
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant PRESIDENT OF THE SCHOOL PTA, LEARNING LEADERS AND PART OF THE SLT.
Background ORGANIZATION OF SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND FAMILY WORKSHOPS.
Personal I am committed to helping families and making a strong impact in the community.
Statement
Candidate
Victor Torres
DBN: 24Q019
IEP: No
ELL Yes
Applicant
Background
Personal
Statement
Candidate
Frankie Velazquez
DBN: 24Q073
IEP: No
ELL No
24Q058
No
No
Applicant Volunteered during Mayor DeBlasio campaign at a call center. I also volunteered for the PTA in PS
Background 58. Volunteer as a Coach for a Youth Baseball team.
Personal I enjoy helping Children the Leaders of the Future.
Statement
Candidate
Igna Margarita Ventura
DBN: 24Q013
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant Vice President of the PTA at IS 61. Member of the SLT at PS 13.
Background
Personal As a parent in District 24, I am running to represent my district and to provide our opinions and ideas.
Statement
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Page 13 of 14
2015 NYC Education Council Elections
Candidate Profiles for
Community Education Council 24
Candidate
Carol Zhumi
DBN: 24Q019
IEP: No
ELL No
Applicant I am Vice-President of the PA at PS19Q. Last year I volunteered as a parent at PS19Q. I am involved
Background in the Parent Committee at Make the Road.
Personal This is my second school year in the public school system. I have been an active parent in my children's
Statement education since preschool. My first year as a parent in the public school environment I quickly became
interested in getting involved in the school as a volunteer with the intention of running for a PA position
for the following year. I am now the Vice-President of the PA and intend on running for the executive
board next year as well. I strongly believe that as parents, we have to set the example for our children. If
we want change, we must be willing to enforce it.
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Page 14 of 14