In the recent Gateway School Board election, I received more votes in person then all other candidates but could not overcome the mail-in ballots (behind by almost 1,100 votes before the in-person votes were counted) and lost by 47 votes. Only 32% of registered individuals voted. To overcome mail-in ballots, more traditional and moderate individuals must make the effort to vote.
To those candidates who won, good luck in your initiatives moving forward to help ensure student success. As a first-time candidate, I found the process quite a learning and insightful experience on the interests of many varied constituents.
One insight was that organization structure and alliance sometimes becomes more important than an ability to communicate a message. In other words, at least in our community, party affiliation overcame my message, beliefs and philosophy. Also, credentials and educational experience did not seem to be key factors on the result for this election.
I look forward in the future to work within the communities of Monroeville and Pitcairn to ensure that the Gateway School District provides the best educational environment for the next generation of students.
Gary DeLorenzo
Monroeville