Board of Education Candidate: Beth Gianacoplos

Editor's note: Seven candidates are running for 5 seats on the Groton Board of Education on Nov. 8. Below is a Q&A with one of the candidates.

Name:  Beth Gianacoplos  

Age: 62  

Education:  University of Vermont, B.S.ED  

Work Experience: Retired educator  

Civic/Political Experience: Served 4 terms on the Groton Board of Education  

Family: Married (Peter); 3 grown children (all went through the Groton schools); 2 grandchildren  

Why are you running for this office?  I believe that the most important thing that a community does is to provide a quality educational experience for its youth.  I believe that I have the qualities necessary to be an effective board member.  I am a good listener; I believe that I work well with others; and I care passionately about providing a quality education for our children.  

What do you believe is the greatest challenge Groton schools face today, and what would you do to meet this challenge?  I believe that we have many challenges.  However, there are three that are the most pressing.  First, improving student achievement should be the foremost goal.  The district is putting in place strategies to support this goal and it is important that the Board be supportive. 

The second issue facing our community is providing resources and opportunities for students in a very challenging fiscal environment.  It is increasing critical that we find efficiencies in the system and create greater opportunities without increasing the bottom line.  And thirdly, the board must lead the discussion with the community as we work to develop a plan that the community will accept regarding the future of our aging buildings.  

How would you rate the performance of the current board overall, and what, if anything, would you do differently?  I believe the current board has had some significant accomplishments.  First, from a fiscal perspective they have managed to maintain the current level of programming in a 0% budget climate.  This was done through a consolidation of staff at the middle school level coupled with an early retirement.  And, thus, the district was able to avoid layoffs. 

Secondly, student achievement has improved in many areas.  And, thirdly, the data capabilities in the district have increased exponentially.  This allows teachers and administrators to more effectively determine strategies to help students with their learning. 

The one area where there is definitely room for improvement is in the area of communication at all levels.  The BOE must more proactively communicate with the community and amongst themselves.  I believe they must develop a clear plan of action to improve communication in the district.