Letters

I am a lifelong resident of Sag Harbor, the mom of three Pierson graduates (including one in the Class of 2020!), a Pierson graduate myself, and an active community member. I am running for the Sag Harbor School Board because we are facing extraordinarily challenging times, and the board will need people with extensive institutional knowledge who are deeply committed to the students and the school, and willing to do the work.

My experience includes:

• 12 years on the Board of Education, where I served as both vice president and president

• PTA President

• PTSA President

• Athletic Committee

• Building and Grounds Committee

• YARD President (longtime after-school program)

• Hamptons Collegiate Baseball League founder and president (two years), general manager (12 years) affiliated MLB (12 years)

• Wall of Honor Committee

• Class parent, 15 years (Homecoming skit/lip sync coach, 12 years)

• Audit Committee (three years)

• Park Board liaison

• Whaling Museum liaison

• Member of Sag Harbor Helpers

For the past 20 years, I have been heavily involved in the school district on both sides of the table. I bring a wealth of knowledge of policy and procedures, contracts, and programs.

I believe that all children deserve a quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential. I understand the importance of transparency and communications, and that the public deserves the right to be heard and answered. I am firmly committed to honesty, oversight and fiscal accountability.

During my time on the board, we expanded programs such as adding the International Baccalaureate, growing sports and club options, while also controlling costs. I voted to ensure that the community — not the board — would decide on the back field. I helped to oversee three major construction/renovation projects to ensure that our buildings are safe and up to code, as well as to offer students additional gym and classroom space.

The board must work in the best interests of the students and the community, as well as the taxpayers. I pledge to be your voice on the board, to always be available to you, and to help the school navigate the difficult years ahead.

I have faith in our kids, in our staff and in our community. I hope you will have faith in me as I ask for your vote.

Sandi Kruel

Sag Harbor