Republican MNSD Board Candidates Issue Joint Statement Ahead Of Election

MARPLE-NEWTOWN, PA — The slate of Republicans running for seats on the Marple Newtown School District Board of Directors have chosen to release a joint statement ahead of the Nov. 4 election.

GOP candidates Barbara Harvey, Nick Siano, Dave Dezzi, Tom Raymond — who currently sit on the board — issued the following joint statement to Patch:

Biographical details on the four are featured below

We are proud of the work we have done as Marple Newtown School Directors and feel that our consistent record of transparecy, dedication, collaboration and positive results speaks directly to the commitment, devotion and love we have for our community.

We have been responsible stewards of your tax dollars to provide the highest level of quality education for the children of Marple Newtown.

As parents and board members, we make our decisions based on the greatest good for all of our students, taxpayers and teachers in the classroom. We sincerely hope that we have exceeded your expectations and request your support to continue our work.

“Quality Education isn’t a debate – It’s a Necessity.”

We humbly ask for your vote on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4th.

Let the progress continue.

Respectfully,
Barbara Harvey
Nick Siano
Dave Dezzi
Tom Raymond

The four also provided joint responses to Patch's candidate questionnaire. Their responses are below:

What are some of the toughest challenges local teachers face in 2025.

At the core of our teachers’ mission is preparing students for success after graduation. Today, that goal carries both excitement and uncertainty as technology and artificial intelligence rapidly reshape the world. The job market our students will enter is evolving quickly, and we are preparing them to meet it with confidence.

To support this goal, we’ve made technology literacy a central part of our curriculum—introducing K–8 STEM classes and establishing the county’s only dedicated high school STEM Academy. While the tech-driven future presents new challenges, we’re ensuring students have the foundation and skills needed to navigate—and thrive in—it.

Does the prevalence of smartphones in classrooms hinder students' ability to retain lessons taught in school?

Although Marple Newtown is a tech-forward district, we recognize that cell phones can disrupt the learning environment. For that reason, their use is prohibited during class time to help students stay focused and engaged.

Since implementing the high school cell phone policy, teacher surveys show marked improvements in student engagement, participation, and overall classroom atmosphere. Lessons are more productive, students interact more with peers and teachers, and behavioral issues related to phones have sharply declined. Many teachers also report renewed enthusiasm and reduced stress, noting that instruction feels more meaningful without constant digital distractions.

Student surveys show similar results. Nearly all students report complying with the policy and say it’s easy to manage. About two-thirds note that their focus and participation have improved or remained steady, with many citing fewer distractions, better attention, and more social interaction. Overall, both teachers and students recognize clear academic and social benefits from the policy.

How do you plan to address school safety, as well as the rise in hoax threats toward schools?

The Marple Newtown School District remains deeply committed to the safety and well-being of all students and staff. We have comprehensive safeguards and emergency procedures in place, supported by two School Resource Officers, district security guards, and strong partnerships with local law enforcement.

Ongoing communication among district leaders, administrators, and counselors ensures that any concern is addressed promptly. Regular safety drills and staff trainings reinforce preparedness across all schools.

In response to the rise in hoax threats affecting schools nationwide, the district continues to work closely with law enforcement to review and refine protocols—ensuring that every situation is handled swiftly, responsibly, and with student safety as the top priority.

Are teachers in the district adequately compensated? If not, what should be done to address that.

We deeply value our teachers and recognize the vital role they play in shaping the student experience. Marple Newtown teachers are compensated at levels comparable to those in neighboring districts, and we remain committed to maintaining competitive salaries across the region.

Ongoing collaboration with the teachers’ association and regular contract reviews helps ensure fair compensation that reflects experience and performance, while supporting our goal of attracting and retaining highly qualified educators.

Ensuring teachers receive competitive compensation remains a district priority. Peer district comparisons and broader economic factors are regularly reviewed, and these considerations will guide the next contract negotiation to ensure teachers are fairly and appropriately supported.

What can the district do to better support students who are struggling in school due to factors outside classrooms, such as food or housing insecurity?

Our district is committed to supporting the whole child, including those who face challenges outside of school. A dedicated Home and School Visitor works closely with families to connect them with community resources related to housing, food, and other basic needs.

In addition, our counselors, psychologists, and behavioral health staff provide essential social and emotional support. Free and reduced-price meal programs ensure that no student goes hungry, and partnerships with local agencies and organizations help provide access to clothing, mental health services, and other vital supports.

Through these efforts, we aim to ensure every student has the stability and opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Name: Barbara Harvey
Age: 75
Gender: Female
Location/Town: Broomall, PA
Party: Republican

Name: Nick Siano
Age: 42
Gender: Male
Location/Town: Broomall, PA
Party: Republican

Name: Dave Dezzi
Age: 60
Gender: Male
Location/Town: Broomall, PA
Party: Republican

Name: Tom Raymond
Age: 48
Gender: Male
Location/Town: Newtown Square, PA
Party: Republican