Central Bucks Names New School Board Member Amid Masking Debate

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Central Bucks school board elected Robert Farley of Warwick as the newest board member on Sept. 28. The board had a vacancy left after board member John Gamble resigned due to threats his family received from people who expressed anger toward the board's decisions regarding the masking of children.

Farley, who has lived in Warwick for 35 years, has raised five children with his wife, Pat, and is now a grandparent. He said he wants his grandchildren to have the best education possible, and that being a member of the school board will allow him to have a say in the quality of that education.

"My grandchild started their first year in this district and I feel I have an obligation to be part of the solution and not just complain," Farley said in his candidacy questionnaire, which was submitted to the board on Sept. 23.

"I want my grandchildren to have the best educational experience that Central Bucks is known for."

Farley has been an active member of the Warwick community for over three decades. He is a an active parishioner at St. Cyril's Church, and has served as a Life Teen Coach while his children were in high school.

The school board has been under scrutiny from locals because of the decisions that have been suggested regarding the masking of children. This has led to threats of violence against members like John Gamble, who resigned after his family was threatened because of his involvement on the board, and protests being planned outside board meetings.

Recently retired from his career in the information technology field, Farley is confident that he will be able to use his knowledge and skills in his role on the board, which will last for four months until the next election taking place on Nov. 2.

"(...) I would be honored to serve on the School Board in order to act as the bridge between the families and the School District."