The latest installment of our series of interviews with school director candidates across Pennsylvania brings us to the North Penn School District.
Liz Vazquez is running for school director in the North Penn School District in Montgomery County. She is a small business owner, caterer, baker, and registered Republican.
Why are you running for the school board?
“I am running for the school board because I have two children in the district, and both are having extremely different experiences and outcomes. Transparency and accountability have been lacking in our district. I also want to ensure that all students are being met where they are and that they are encouraged to work hard to reach their fullest potential. I want to advocate for students and parents who may feel that they don’t have a voice in how to navigate their school experience.”
What are the most important issues facing the North Penn School District?
“In my personal opinion, there is a lack of transparency between the district and all stakeholders. We’ve also had a decline in academic ranking and a lack of support for teachers and parents who need it the most. I also feel that a percentage of students aren’t prepared for life after graduating from North Penn.”
What is your professional background/experience? What skills would you bring to the board?
“My experience and passion for children goes as far back as 30 years. Working as a substitute teacher, director, and on-site coordinator has allowed me to come across many children and families of all backgrounds. Advocating for the ones with little to no voice fueled me to continue my advocacy for all.”
Have you run for political office previously? Have you been politically active?
“No, I have not.”
Are you running with other candidates?
“Yes, and I am proud to call Diana Blystone, Vince Altieri, and Mike Jowder my running mates. We are all parents running for our children without political agendas. You can learn more about my campaign at my website.”
What is the most important role of the school board, in your opinion?
“As a school board member, it is important to have an open mind, show respect, accountability, transparency, and communication with all stakeholders.”
We contacted the Democratic and Republican committees in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, and Montgomery counties and asked them to share the questions with their school director candidates. Broad + Liberty will post the responses throughout the summer to assist voters in learning about the candidates running in their district. The series is open to any school director on the ballot in November. Please contact barosica@broadandliberty.com for more information.
Broad + Liberty is a nonprofit media endeavor dedicated to sharing voices and stories that are shut out of other media outlets. @BroadAndLiberty