WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS THE 8 CANDIDATES FOR 3 BOARD OF EDUCATION SEATS IN THE SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTION MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

WPCNR, courtesy of the White Plains League of Women Voters presents the 8 candidates running for three seats on the Board Of Education in the School Board Budget and Elections May 21. They will be appearing at the Candidates Form at 7 PM for the Forum, held May 9 in the White Plains High School Library. The Forum will be zoomed and retelecast on FIOS Channel 46 and Optimum Channel 77. The information is published as received from the League and there may be some errors in fonts. Addresses and contact information excluded for privacy.

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidates

Name : Vincent Orlando

Education: Bachelor History with a minor in Education from Mercy College

Profession: I started my career in Education and moved on to Financial Services.

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools or have you had children in the schools in the past?

I currently have two children in the White Plains School district.

There are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board?

As a lifelong resident of White Plains and having gone through the White Plains School district, I have chosen to run for the White Plains School Board so I can continue to serve my community. I feel it is an important responsibility to work with our community and schools so that all children can have an opportunity to succeed. As a current PTAmember, I know the importance of working side by side with our schools to give our students access to experiences and opportunities for all.

What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member? In what school or district activities have you been involved?

I am very involved in my children’s school, from organizing events, to volunteering during lunch and I currently serve as the PTA secretary for my children’s school. I have worked closely with parents, teachers, and the principle to help facilitate events and activities. I have worked with the PTA in fundraising so we can offer programs for little to no cost for our students, and not add cost to our school district.

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?

I believe the most important role of school board member is to work with the Superintendent, parents, and educators to help students succeed and to ensure that the school is building a bridge with the community. Part of the responsibility of a schoolboard member is to ensure that the school budget is fiscally responsible and that we are including key stakeholders from each department to the decision-making process.

What are 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud?

The White Plains School District provides a multitude of opportunities for all our students and families. At the elementary level being able to offer school choice is a unique opportunity that not many districts can offer. Each school provides and targets the values of the families of our community. For example, we have schools that offer bilingual education that in the long run would address the seal of biliteracy as a graduation pathway. We also offer STEM opportunities. Our schools value the voice of our families.

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?

As the population of White Plains continues to grow, we need to make sure that we continue to address all the needs of our student’s, English language learners, students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged students and our gifted and talented students. We need to make sure that we continue to offer as many opportunities as possible to our students that we can. We also need to make sure there is transparency with decision making process and that we move away from top-down decisions.

At the end of your term on the School Board, what would you hope to have been the accomplishment you are most proud of!

At the end of my term on the school board I hope that we have as a school district where our process of decision making, takes in consideration all voices; staff, parents, students and tax payers and all decisions are made with the children first.

WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS THE 8 CANDIDATES FOR 3 SEATS ON THE BOARD OF EDUCATION IN THE SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTIONS MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidates

Name: Craig Mondschein

Education: HS Half Hollow Hills HS West

BA – University of Rochester

MBA – University of Rochester Simon School

Profession: Corporate Treasurer

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools or have you had children in the schools in the past?
1. Yes, Amanda graduated 2021 and Sabrina graduates 2024

here are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board?
1. As a parent of children who have attended not only the White Plains schools but other schools as well, I feel I have the perspective and experience to positively impact the education of our White Plains children. I have been able to observe firsthand what has worked and what improvements are needed to meet the educational needs of our children.
2. As a community member of WPCSD Finance and Audit committee since 2017, I have gained a very good understanding of the budget and finances of the school district. I feel I can use this knowledge as a Board member to represent the taxpayers of Whtie Plains. I will ensure property taxes are fair and used efficiently to maintain strong property values while delivering a superior education to our children.
3. As a parent of post high school age children, I finally have the time to dedicate to the White Plains community as a Board member.

What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member? In what school or district activities have you been involved?
1. As a parent of a child who had an IEP in elementary school and is now a PhD candidate, I have seen firsthand the positive impact a public school education can have on the life of a child. I have experienced the importance of Teacher, Parent and Administration collaboration to benefit our students and want to promote this approach as a member of the Board.
2. I grew up in a home where my mother was a Reading and Special Education public school teacher and my father was a Pediatrician. My mother taught in one of the least affluent school districts on Long Island (Roosevelt) and opened the Reading lab to parents in the evening, so they were able to learn to read and write to help make a better life for their families. My father was a strong advocate at IEP meetings for his patients in the schools when requested by parents. Their dedication to helping the community, above and beyond their required jobs, has always been an inspiration to me and taught me about giving back to the community.
3. As a corporate treasurer it is my responsibility to ensure that proper operating controls are in place to eliminate fraudulent payments and activities that will negatively affect the shareholders of my company. Similarly, as a member of the White Plains Finance and Audit committee we review the financial controls of the District and instruct the school administration to make needed improvements as they arise. As a Board member representing the taxpayers of White Plains, it is a critical role to ensure that our property taxes are being spent wisely and that proper financial controls are in place to eliminate fraudulent activities.
4. As a Greenburgh Hebrew Center Trustee and former Treasurer, I am actively involved in the recruitment and hiring of professional staff, including religious leaders and teachers, and will bring this experience with me as a member of the Board of Education.

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?
1. A strong advocate for the very best education experience for all our children based on the needs of every child.
2. A strong advocate for the taxpayers of White Plains to ensure property taxes are fair and used efficiently to maintain strong property values.
3. Providing guidance and advice to the White Plains Superintendent and his team on policy and procedure issues to ensure the best possible education for our children and working environment for all White Plains schools employees.

What are 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud?
1. The incredible opportunities our children have to learn both in the classroom and outside the classroom. White Plains has done a very good job of meeting the individual needs of every student.
2. Ricca and his team. Dr, Ricca has implemented and continuously ensures a children first approach. Everything the administration, teachers, staff and the Board do is first and foremost for our children. Educating our children has to be, and is the first priority.
3. The financial condition of the White Plains schools is a huge accomplishment and strength.
  1. The foresight to create capital funds which are approved by the taxpayers not only upon creation, but also prior to use, has allowed the District to effectively use property taxes on capital projects without a need to issue additional bonds or raise new taxes.
  2. At the onset of the pandemic the District was able to purchase and distribute iPads to every child, using existing cash in the bank account, so every student was able to continue to learn through the pandemic.
4. The quality of the White Plains Schools employees. White Plains has been able to recruit and sustain a very high-quality employee base which translates into a positive and rewarding learning experience for our children.

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?
1. The great unknown of the NYS budget and the effect on White Plains schools is an issue for every school district. It is very difficult to effectively budget and plan when a significant amount of State aid is unknown during the budget process. It is critical that Albany supports our students with a fair and equitable budget.
2. The age of the White Plains Schools buildings is a huge issue. The administration has done an admirable job maintaining the aging buildings. As a member of the Master Planning Committee, we were able to prioritize the needs of the District and implement a plan to renovate the District infrastructure.
3. The changing demographics of White Plains. From the new construction to new members of the community the school district has to meet the needs of the community. The current demographic analysis indicates fewer students in the years ahead but with the new construction this may change. The needs of our students will continue to evolve as new families move into White Plains. The Board and administration have to anticipate these needs.

At the end of your term on the School Board, what would you hope to have been the accomplishment you are most proud of!
1. Leaving the children of White Plains better than when I joined the Board.
2. Allowing our children to reach their full potential as a result of the education they received at White Plains.
3. Through education, helping families improve their economic wellbeing for generations into the future.
4. The completion of the renovation and restoration of the school buildings.

WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS THE 8 CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR 3 SEATS ON THE BOARD OF EDUCATION IN THE SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTION MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidates

Name: Rose Lovitch

Education: Pace Law School, JD , Fordham University, Political Science and Public Administration

Profession: Attorney/Owner, Rossi Law PLLC, White Plains, NY Staff Attorney, Pace Woman’s Justice Center, White Plains, NY

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools or have you had children in the schools in the past?

I have 3 children who are all alumni of White Plains School District, and I was a very involved and active parent during my children’s years in the district.

There are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board?

I have proudly served on the White Plains School Board for 12 years, and I am eager to continue our work to support our students. I have always enjoyed working with children, and I feel that my role as a school board member serves students in a most critical part of their growth. We are concerned not only with their curricular education, with their extracurricular opportunities, college and career preparation, and very importantly their social and emotional learning. I especially enjoy visiting classrooms and watching our students as they learn and connect with others, and celebrating their accomplishments with them during special presentations and events.

What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member? In what school or district activities have you been involved?

After many years as a PTA volunteer and President at the elementary, high school and PTA Council levels, and as a Girl Scout leader, I ran for the Board and have proudly served for the past 12 years. While on the PTA, I worked with students and teachers as a class parent, running PTA events and chairing committees. As a Girl Scout leader for 14 years, I led and empowered young girls while learning and experiencing their community and the world around them, helping my troop to earn their Bronze and Silver Awards, and proudly supporting my daughter earn her Gold Award, which later became the underlying interest for her career in Public Health. As a Board member, I have worked collaboratively with my colleagues, served on the Special Ed, Curriculum and Policy committees, as well as the Dual Language Program review committee and Diversity Committee. I have learned the budget process and the need to thoughtfully consider not only our students’ needs, but the sustainability of our decisions in terms of our budget. As a White Plains small business owner, I am a sole practitioner. I represent my clients, taking into consideration each of their individual needs, just as our school district considers the needs of our students. I manage and budget the financial needs of my practice, as the school board strives for the needs of the district. I am an integral part of the community and recognize the effects of our school district budget plans. I continue to support our students as a member of the Woman’s Club of White Plains, where I have been attending and volunteering with the annual Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion show, where scholarship donations are raised for our high school seniors. I have had the opportunity to watch many cohorts of students, including my own children, learn and grow, both in our schools and after graduation. With all my years of service to the district, I bring much history and experience when discussing and deciding the needs of our students.

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?

The two most critical roles of any school board are to select and support the school superintendent, and to review, understand and approve the budget.

I am proud to serve on a Board which chooses to take a more active role in our district, which includes visiting classrooms, attending school functions such as concerts, plays, awards ceremonies, reading and math nights, science fairs, and so many more. One of

our favorite events is graduation, where we each attend elementary, middle school and high school moving up/graduation ceremonies, very happily celebrating our students and their successes.

What are 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud?

– Our schools are as diverse as our community. Our students each have their own culture,

backgrounds, interests, and strengths, and our schools are prepared to focus and support each

student.

– Our schools can be proud of our wide range of opportunities for our students. Our excellent financial team diligently prepares a budget which offers all levels of curriculum, from support for struggling students, inclusive enrichment for all students, to advanced and AP classes. Our commitment to excellence includes Dual Language, STEM, Computers and Engineering, Fine Arts, and we support our students who prefer to prepare for a trade by attending BOCES programs.

– Our students are involved in our community, through sports, community service, intern/externships, and learn to give back to the community which has offered so much opportunity to each of them.

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?

Our greatest challenge is maintaining our commitment to always do better for our students, who are our priority and our future. We continue to recover from our most serious recent crisis, the 2020 pandemic. We united as a Board, administration and staff, strong and committed to return our children and staff safely to school, and we continue to provide continuity and stability as we afford the supports necessary for each person, as we still re-acclimate to our educational and social environment. We strive to hire the best teachers and to bring the best programs to our schools. We often make difficult or unpopular decisions, based upon research and data analysis, to best provide for a body of students very diverse needs. I believe that my experience as a longtime Board member provides the knowledge and information, strength and objectivity, and perseverance necessary to face these challenges. We always look to the future as we provide the resources necessary for our students to pursue their dreams and contribute to a diverse and dynamic world.

At the end of your term on the School Board, what would you hope to have been the accomplishment you are most proud of?

I will always be proud of my more than 25 years of service to our students and our school district. I am incredibly proud to serve with board members who always put children first, and whose decisions are always made in the best interests of our students. I will always be proud to have dedicated my time to support our children, to provide vast and diverse opportunities for learning, sharing and preparing for successful futures and realized dreams.

WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS THE 8 CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR 3 SEATS ON THE BOARD OF EDUCATION IN THE SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTIONS MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

WPCNR, courtesy of the White Plains League of Women Voters presents the 8 candidates running for three seats on the Board Of Education in the School Board Budget and Elections May 21. They will be appearing at the Candidates Form at 7 PM for the Forum, to be held May 9 in the White Plains High School Library. The Forum will be zoomed and retelecast on FIOS Channel 46 and Optimum Channel 77. The information is published as received from the League and there may be some errors in fonts. Addresses and contact information excluded for privacy.

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidates

Name: Cayne Letizia

Address: 14 Gedney Circle White Plains New York 10605

Email address: Cayne.Letizia@gmail.com

Education: BA, MSed, & PhD

Profession: Educator. High School English Teacher HGHS Chappaqua, NY

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools or have you had children in the schools in the past?

I have three children in the White Plains City School District that all attended Mamaroneck Avenue School. Currently I have one child at White Plains High School, one child at Highlands and one child at Eastview.

There are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board?

As the Vice President of the WPCSD School Board, I’ve witnessed the significant strides we’ve made during my last three terms. I am eager to continue this momentum into another term. From making bussing free for all students at WPHS to air conditioning all classrooms to the consistent fiscal responsibility of delivering reasonable budgets under the 2% Tax Cap. Furthermore, as a parent with three children in the district, I bring a crucial perspective on how our decisions directly impact students. Our White Plains community’s growth and stability are intricately tied to the strength of our school system. A robust public education system that caters to the needs of all students is fundamental to fostering a thriving community.

What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member? In what school or district activities have you been involved?

With 26 years as a teacher in diverse settings from the Bronx to Westchester, I have a deep understanding of educational needs across a broad spectrum. My active involvement in various district committees—including Human Resources, School Safety and Security, Health and Wellness, and Curriculum & Instruction & Audit and Finance—equips me with a comprehensive perspective on school governance. Additionally, I serve on the Board of Directors for the Westchester Putnam School Board Association, which supports local boards with training and resources. My recent appointment to the Westchester County Youth Advisory Board further enhances my ability to contribute to youth-focused initiatives and programs. As a member of the PTA at my children’s schools, I am directly engaged with the grassroots of educational community involvement.

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?

I view my most important role as being a steward of our community’s educational values and resources, dedicated to both current and future students and families of White Plains Schools. Effective governance requires balancing the differing needs and perspectives of various groups, always with a primary focus on student success. This involves actively engaging with the community to understand their concerns, collaborating with fellow board members to establish strategic priorities, and ensuring that district leadership is held accountable for achieving measurable outcomes. This holistic approach underscores my commitment to fostering an educational environment that supports and enhances the development of every student.

What are 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud? The White Plains Public Schools are distinguished by four key strengths.

First, our district benefits from stable and consistent leadership, providing a steady foundation that contrasts with the instability observed in neighboring areas. Second, the remarkable diversity of our student body enhances our educational environment, bringing a rich variety of perspectives and experiences that enrich learning for all. Third, our success is bolstered by robust collaboration with local organizations such as The White Plains Youth Bureau, The BID, The YWCA, Centro Hispano, and PTA branches, alongside families, students, and the broader community. Finally, our commitment to innovation positions us uniquely in Westchester through distinctive programming and proactive recruitment strategies. These pillars—Stable Leadership, Student Diversity, Collaboration, and Innovation—define our district’s strengths.

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?

The greatest challenges facing White Plains Schools are captured in two critical areas: Achievement and Growth. The city of White Plains, though part of a larger societal tapestry, is home to diverse students from varied backgrounds—children of long-standing residents, newcomers from NYC, and families in temporary housing. All converge daily in our schools, creating a unique educational environment. Our responsibility is immense: to educate every student effectively, ensuring they lay a strong foundation for future community contributions. The challenge intensifies as we address disparities in access to resources like food and language acquisition barriers. Despite these hurdles, our commitment remains to uphold high educational standards while recognizing and nurturing the distinct talents of each student. This approach is essential for their personal growth and academic achievement, ensuring they measure up both locally and nationally.

At the end of your term on the School Board, what would you hope to have been the accomplishment you are most proud of!

That I left the White Plains City School District better than I found it for future BOE members, community members, family members and most importantly our City’s children.

May 4– WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS INTRODUCES THE 8 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS ON THE WHITE PLAINS BOARD OF EDUCATION IN THE SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTIONS MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

WPCNR, courtesy of the White Plains League of Women Voters presents the 8 candidates running for three seats on the Board Of Education in the School Board Budget and Elections May 21. They will be appearing at the Candidates Form at 7 PM for the Forum, to be held May 9 in the White Plains High School Library. The Forum will be zoomed and retelecast on FIOS Channel 46 and Optimum Channel 77. The information is published as received from the League and there may be some errors in fonts. Addresses and contact information excluded for privacy.

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidate

Name: Leslie Hickey

Education: College graduate

Profession: CPA

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools or have you had children in the schools in the past?

My son graduated from WPHS two years ago. I have a nephew who is a senior at WPHS now.

There are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board?

I believe that times have changed, and we need a fresh perspective in addressing them.

What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member? In what school or district activities have you been involved?

I served as the Assistant Treasurer and then Treasurer for the WPHS PTA for four years as well as serving as an active volunteer at fundraising events. I have been on the PTA Council for three years as the enrichment and curriculum liaison. I also add a financial background in the business world which would assist in strategy and planning.

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?

Fiscal responsibility

What are 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud?

First, the district strives to add programs to the curriculum that meet the needs of a very diverse student body with different plans for their future. Second, WPHS has amazing facilities that are unlike any other high school in the area.

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?

Finding the right balance between teachers and administrators to maximize education goals in a fiscally responsible manner. We need to find the right support for those on the front line in the classrooms so we keep our best teachers.

At the end of your term on the School Board, what would you hope to have been the accomplishment you are most proud of!

That no one wants to set my house on fire! (Just a little humor). This is a difficult question as it’s hard to know what the hot button items will be during my tenure. I’m sure that no one in the history of the Board elections ever wrote here that they wanted to be proud of how they dealt with a global pandemic! I think (and this sounds a little lame) that my biggest accomplishment would be to have the community be sad to see me go.

MAY 4–WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS THE 8 CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR 3 SEATS ON THE BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTIONS MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

WPCNR, courtesy of the White Plains League of Women Voters presents the 8 candidates running for three seats on the Board Of Education in the School Board Budget and Elections May 21. They will be appearing at the Candidates Form at 7 PM for the Forum, held in the White Plains High School Library. The Forum will be zoomed and retelecast on FIOS Channel 46 and Optimum Channel 77. The information is published as received from the League and there may be some errors in fonts. Addresses and contact information excluded for privacy.

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidates

Name: Donna Giambalvo

Education: Master’s Biomedical Engineering & Industrial Pharmacy

Profession: VP of Sales

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools, or have you had children in the schools in the past?

Presently, I am proud to have two daughters enrolled in the White Plains School District. They are currently thriving in the 4th and 5th grades, each embarking on their unique educational journeys.

There are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board

I have chosen to run for the school board because I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and stresses faced by families and friends within the school system. This personal insight has inspired me to step up and advocate for meaningful change. My decision is driven by two primary motivations. Firstly, I am committed to being a voice for all students, parents, and community members, ensuring that their concerns and aspirations are heard and addressed. Secondly, I am dedicated to fostering an exceptional school system where every child has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By contributing to the improvement of our public schools, I hope to create a nurturing environment that rivals the quality of private institutions, thus providing my own children and countless others with the best possible education and prospects.

What skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member? In what school or district activities have you been involved?

My role as Vice President of Sales has given me key skills like leadership, planning, and managing finances, which are crucial for good governance. Leading teams has taught me how to collaborate well with different people and make smart choices. Managing complex problems every day has made me adaptable and good at thinking on my feet. With my focus on engaging with the community and making ethical decisions, I am ready to bring valuable contributions to the school board, helping to improve our schools for everyone’s benefit.

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?

The main job of a school board member is to make sure students are safe and successful. This means making rules that help students do well in school, providing enough support for them to learn and grow, and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels included. A school board member also helps build trust between teachers, parents, and administrators by working together. By listening to what the community wants, making choices that match the district’s goals, and focusing on what is best for students, school board members show their dedication to the students they represent.

What are the 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud?

When reflecting on the strengths of the White Plains Public Schools, White Plains Public Schools in Westchester have much to be proud of. Their diverse community brings cultures together, making learning more exciting and inclusive. This prepares students for the diverse world they will face beyond school. Plus, the school has amazing teachers and staff who work hard to help every student succeed. They give personalized support to make sure each student reaches their potential. With such a supportive community and dedicated team, White Plains Public Schools offer a great environment for students to learn and grow.

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?

When considering the greatest challenges facing the White Plains Schools, two significant factors come to mind. Firstly, the diversity within our schools presents both opportunities and challenges. While diversity enriches our educational environment and fosters cultural understanding, it also requires careful attention to ensure that all students receive equitable opportunities and support. Secondly, allocating and managing financial resources effectively is crucial for addressing various needs within the district, from maintaining quality education to providing necessary resources and support services. By addressing these challenges thoughtfully and collaboratively, we can work towards ensuring that all students receive the high-quality education they deserve.

MAY 4–WHITE PLAINS LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS THE 8 CANDIDATES FOR 3 BOARD OF EDUCATION SEATS IN THE SCHOOL BUDGET AND BOARD ELECTION MAY 21

Posted on May 4, 2024 by John Bailey

WPCNR, courtesy of the White Plains League of Women Voters presents the 8 candidates running for three seats on the Board Of Education in the School Board Budget and Elections May 21. They will be appearing at the Candidates Form at 7 PM for the Forum, held in the White Plains High School Library. The Forum will be zoomed and retelecast on FIOS Channel 46 and Optimum Channel 77. The information is published as received from the League and there may be some errors in fonts. Addresses and contact information excluded for privacy.

Information Sheet for Board of Education Candidates

Name: Jessica Buck

Education: B.S. Business Administration, SUNY Albany; MBA Cornell University

Profession: Marketing/Brand Management Consultant

Questions

Do you currently have children in the White Plains Schools or have you had children in the schools in the past?

Yes, I have a son in the 8^th grade at Highlands who will be moving up to White Plains High School in the fall. He’s grown up in the White Plains City School District since Kindergarten at Ridgeway and Eastview’s 6^th grade academy prior to Highlands Middle School. I’m happy to say that I’ve built positive relationships with his teachers, school administrators, counselors, and other school staff over the last 9 years including our facilities and maintenance staff who maintain our beautiful school buildings and grounds.

There are many ways individuals can serve the community. Why have you chosen to run for the school board?

I’ve been a student & parent advocate in the WPCSD since my son entered Kindergarten in 2015 and have lived in White Plains since 2003 after moving here upon graduating with an MBA from Cornell University. I am an active member of the PTA and have been going to BoE meetings consistently since 2015 when I became the PTA Council Representative for Ridgeway and have continued to represent the PTA at BoE meetings as President of the PTA Council and Advocacy Chair of the Westchester East Putnam Regional PTA. I’ve gotten to know all the members of the board over the years and have been able to gain a broad view of what is going on in the WPCSD community. There have been times when I am the only community member in attendance at the live meetings. I’ve witnessed how hard they work and admire their deep dedication to the students and families in the WPCSD. I share that same dedication and passion about serving students and families and continuously striving to make this school district the best it can be within the parameters of the resources available to it.

What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member?

My professional background is in Marketing/Brand Management, I am currently owner of my own marketing consultant business (current BoE members are lawyers, teachers, professors, finance managers). My professional experience and my volunteer experience brings a new perspective to the BoE. I have built relationships with parents, teachers, administrators and students because community engagement and advocacy is the most important role of the PTA. I understand the importance of transparent communication and collaboration with the community. I have all the characteristics of a board member as outlined by the NYS School Boards Association: I am an effective communicator, a consensus builder, community participant, decision maker, information processor, leader and team player. As a trusted member of the WPCSD community I believe I am the best qualified candidate to serve on the Board.

In what school or district activities have you been involved?

PTA Experience

Ridgeway PTA Council Rep 2015 tp 2021
Halloween Spooktacular Chair, 2016 & 2017
Book Fair Chair, 2016
Health & Wellness Committee, 2017-2019y678
District-wide Recess Committee, 2016, 2017
Silent Auction Chair, 2018, 2019, 2020 (raised ~$30K-$40K for PTA)
5th Grade Committee Chair, 2021
PTA Council co-President, 2020-21 (virtual year)
PTA Council President, 2021-22
PTA Council Advocacy Chair, 2022-24
Westchester East Putnam Regional (WEPR) PTA, White Plains Rep, 2021
WEPR PTA, Advocacy Chair, 2022
WEPR PTA, Membership Chair, 2022-2023, 23-24
District-wide Re-opening Committee 2020-2021

8th Grade Fundraising Committee Booster Club

Founded a 501c3 organization to fundraise for end of year activities & events

Moms Demand Action Westchester Volunteer since 2018

Be SMART for Kids Team Lead (secure gun storage education & advocacy)

What do you think is the most important role of a school board member?

Serving students and families, building strong relationships/partnerships with teachers, administrators and staff; ensuring community stakeholders are informed about important district changes and news and collaborating with community partners to fulfill the vision of the WPCSD while working toward achieving high student performance that aligns with what success looks like for each individual student.

What are 2-3 strengths of which the White Plains Public Schools can be proud?
- Diversity of the student population and the on-going effort to ensure students have an equitable educational experience
- Teachers and administrators who make students a priority
- A BoE that manages the district strategically (short & long range planning)
- High level of readiness and preparation to manage through challenges

What are the White Plains Schools’ greatest challenges?
- Community engagement with students and families (communication, partnership) at all schools, especially at the middle & high school levels
- Retaining students as they transition from middle to high school
- Finding high quality substitutes at all school building levels
- Anticipating the impact of all the new residential construction in White Plains

At the end of your term on the School Board, what would you hope to have been the accomplishment you are most proud of!

Developing strong student and family engagement to bring our community together.

Marketing the WPCSD to showcase its strengths and elevate our city as a coveted place to live.

TONIGHT AT 8: “PEOPLE TO BE HEARD” THE SCHOOL BUDGET REPORT FIOS CH45. OPTIMUM CH 76 AND www.wpcommunitymedia.org

Posted on May 2, 2024 by John Bailey

DR. JOSEPH RICCA ON THE 2024-25 SCHOOL BUDGET

DR.ANN VACCARO-TEICH

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR BUSINESS

WHAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE 2024-25 BUDGET

WHAT’S NEW

THE VOTE IS COMING UP MAY 21 12 NOON TO 9

THE NEW CAPITAL RESERVE PROPOSITION SAVING FOR THE FUTURE WHY A CAPITAL RESERVE WORKS!

THE NEW DIRECTOR OF MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

THE NEW DIRECTION IN CURRICULUM

HOW STUDENTS OPTING FOR NEW TECHNICAL EDUCATION INITIATIVES WILL OPERATE IN THE ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENT

AND MORE

TONIGHT AT 8 SATURDAY AT 7 AND ON WWW.WPCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

MAY 2 –FLASH 8 CANDIDATES FOR 3 SEATS ON BOARD OF EDUCATION QUALIFY FOR THE BALLOT

Posted on May 2, 2024 by John Bailey

Melissa Melendez, District Clerk, White Plains Schools announced this morning that 8 citizens, including two incumbents running for relection have qualified for places on the ballot in the May 21 school district election where 3 seats are up for election.

They candidates are:

Craig Mondschein

Jessica Buck

Donna Giambalvo

Rose Lovitch (running for reelection)

Cayne Letizia (running for reelection)

Ferenc Tasnady

Vincent Orlando

Leslie Hickey

This is the largest number of candidates for a Board election in this reporter’s memory the 8 will contend for 3 seats open on the board.

A Forum will be held by the White Plains League of Women Voters at White Plains High School Library on May 9 one week from today, which will be live zoomed. No questions will be taken from the floor.

Announcement of League of Women Voters of White Plains School Board Candidates Forum

On May 21st, White Plains voters will be electing three school board members and voting on the school budget.

To help the community learn about the candidates, the League will host a Candidates Forum on May 9 from 7pm – 9 pm at the Library Media Center at White Plains HS. The program will be recorded and rebroadcast on Channel 46 (Verizon) and Channel 77 (Cablevision.) Candidates are being asked to complete information forms which will be available at the forum and through an email blast before the forum.

While no questions will be taken from the floor, those interested in submitting questions should:

Email them to lwvwpawc@gmail.com by 5pm on May 2nd.
While we will not share your name and contact information at the Forum, we ask that you include the following information to ensure that White Plains Residents have their questions heard:
- Your Name
- Your Address
- Your Question

Questions should be applicable to all candidates and center on White Plains School issues rather than personalities. The League will review questions and consolidate similar ones that will reflect a wide range of issues.

Please note this is not a budget information session but that you can access budget materials at: https://www.whiteplainspublicschools.org/district-offices/business-office/budget/2024-2025-budget

According to the New York State School Boards Association, “A school board member takes on one of the most important citizen responsibilities: overseeing the education of the community’s youth. In these challenging times for public education, school boards are seeking men and women who find excitement and satisfaction in confronting tough challenges and working collegially to rise above them and help students in their communities succeed…”

We hope you’ll attend the forum on May 9 and then vote on May 21.

League to which this content belongs:

White Plains

FOUNDERS & CEO OF CRYPTOCURRENCY MIXING SERVICE ARRESTED, CHARGED WITH $$ LAUNDERING, UNLICENSED MONEY TRANSMITTING OFFENCES

Posted on April 29, 2024 by John Bailey

$2 BILLION IN ILLEGAL TRANSFERS $100 MILLION IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDS ALLEGED

WPCNR FBI WIRE. From the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York, April 29, 2024:

Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill Are Charged with Operating Samourai Wallet, an Unlicensed Money Transmitting Business That Executed Over $2 Billion in Unlawful Transactions and Laundered Over $100 Million in Criminal Proceeds

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Thomas Fattorusso, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (“IRS-CI”); and James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging KEONNE RODRIGUEZ, the Chief Executive Officer and a co-founder of Samourai Wallet (“Samourai”), and WILLIAM LONERGAN HILL, the Chief Technology Officer and also a co-founder of Samourai, with conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business.

These charges arise from the defendants’ development, marketing, and operation of a cryptocurrency mixer that executed over $2 billion in unlawful transactions and facilitated more than $100 million in money laundering transactions from illegal dark web markets, such as Silk Road and Hydra Market; a web-server intrusion; a spearphishing scheme; and schemes to defraud multiple decentralized finance protocols.

RODRIGUEZ was arrested this morning and is expected to be presented today or tomorrow before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Pennsylvania. HILL was arrested this morning in Portugal based on the U.S. criminal charges. The United States will seek HILL’s extradition to stand trial in the United States. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman.

In coordination with law enforcement authorities in Iceland, Samourai’s web servers and domain (https://samourai.io/) were seized.

Additionally, a seizure warrant for Samourai’s mobile application was served on the Google Play Store.

As a result, the application will no longer be available to be downloaded from the Google Play Store in the United States.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said:

“As alleged, Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill are responsible for developing, marketing, and operating Samourai, a cryptocurrency mixing service that executed over $2 billion in unlawful transactions and served as a haven for criminals to engage in large-scale money laundering. Rodriguez and Hill allegedly knowingly facilitated the laundering of over $100 million of criminal proceeds from the Silk Road, Hydra Market, and a host of other computer hacking and fraud campaigns. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to relentlessly pursue and dismantle criminal organizations that use cryptocurrency to hide illicit conduct.”

IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso said: “$2 billion in transactions with an unlicensed money transmitter means $2 billion flowed without any oversight, from whomever to wherever. Because of the company’s disregard for regulation, it’s alleged that Samourai Wallet laundered more than $100 million in criminal proceeds. Special Agents with IRS:CI New York and IRS:CI LA’s Cyber units worked with our federal and international law enforcement partners to not only arrest the founders and CEO, but to also seize their domain. Samourai Wallet is now closed for business.”

FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: “Threat actors utilize technology to evade law enforcement detection and create environments conducive to criminal activity. For almost 10 years, Keonne Rodriguez and William Hill allegedly operated a mobile cryptocurrency mixing platform which provided other criminals a virtual haven for the clandestine exchange of illicit funds, the facilitation of more than $2 billion in illegal transactions, and $100 million in dark web money laundering. The FBI is committed to exposing covert financial schemes and ensuring no one can hide behind a screen to perpetuate financial wrongdoing.”

According to the allegations in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal Court:[1]

Background on Samourai

From about 2015 through February 2024, RODRIGUEZ and HILL developed, marketed, and operated a cryptocurrency mixing service known as Samourai, an unlicensed money transmitting business from which they earned millions of dollars in fees.

Samourai unlawfully combined multiple unique features to execute anonymous financial transactions valued at over $2 billion for its customers. While offering Samourai as a “privacy” service, the defendants knew that it was a haven for criminals to engage in large-scale money laundering and sanctions evasion.

Indeed, as the defendants intended and well knew, a substantial portion of the funds that Samourai processed were criminal proceeds passed through Samourai for purposes of concealment. During the relevant period, Samourai laundered over $100 million of crime proceeds originating from, among other criminal sources, illegal darkweb markets, such as Silk Road and Hydra Market; various wire fraud and computer fraud schemes, including a web-server intrusion, a spearphishing scheme, and schemes to defraud multiple decentralized finance protocols; and other illegal activities.

RODRIGUEZ and HILL began developing Samourai in or about 2015.

Samourai is a mobile application that users can download onto their cellphones, and the application has been downloaded over 100,000 times.

After users download Samourai, they can store their private keys for any BTC addresses they control inside of the Samourai program. These private keys are not shared with Samourai employees, but Samourai operates a centralized server that, among other things, supervises and facilitates transactions between Samourai users and creates new BTC addresses used during the transactions. Samourai is used by customers all over the world, including customers located in the United States and in the Southern District of New York.

RODRIGUEZ and HILL designed Samourai to offer at least two features intended to assist individuals engaged in criminal conduct to conceal the source of the proceeds of their criminal activities.

First, Samourai offers a cryptocurrency mixing service known as “Whirlpool,” which coordinates batches of cryptocurrency exchanges between groups of Samourai users to prevent tracing of criminal proceeds by law enforcement on the Blockchain.

Second, Samourai offers a service called “Ricochet,” which allows a Samourai user to build in additional and unnecessary intermediate transactions (known as “hops”) when sending cryptocurrency from one address to another address.

This feature similarly may prevent law enforcement and/or cryptocurrency exchanges from recognizing that a particular batch of cryptocurrency originates from criminal activity. Since the start of the Whirlpool service in or about 2019, and of the Ricochet service in or about 2017, over 80,000 BTC (worth over $2 billion applying the BTC-USD conversion rates at the time of each transaction) has passed through these two services operated by Samourai. Samourai collects a fee for both services, estimated to be about $3.4 million for Whirlpool transactions and $1.1 million for Ricochet transactions over the same time period.

RODRIGUEZ and HILL’s Knowledge and Intent for Criminal Proceeds to be Laundered by Samourai

RODRIGUEZ and HILL operated Twitter accounts that encouraged and openly invited users to launder criminal proceeds through Samourai. For example, in or around June 2022, Samourai’s Twitter account — operated by RODRIGUEZ — posted the following message regarding Russian oligarchs seeking to circumvent sanctions:

Image of a tweet from Samourai’s account “Welcome new Russian oligarch Samourai Wallet users”

Similarly, in a private message on or about August 27, 2020, HILL — using a Twitter account with the username “Samourai Dev” — discussed the use of Samourai by criminals operating in online black markets such as Silk Road in private messages with another Twitter user (the “Twitter User”) (emphasis added):

Twitter User: Silk Road is why I first found Bitcoin and the desire to keep engaging in those types of markets is one reason that I want to defend/strengthen those use cases . . .

Samourai Dev: No, not at all. We probably have different views on some basic tenets of bitcoin, you and I – so to each his own so to speak. At Samourai we are entirely focused on the censorship resistance and black/grey circular economy. This implies no foreseeable mass adoption, although black/grey markets have already started to expand during covid and will continue to do so post-covid. . . .

Additionally, in response to Europol highlighting Samourai as a “top threat” to the ability of law enforcement to trace the proceeds of criminal activity, HILL posted a message in or around March 2021 suggesting that Samourai would not change its practices in response to allegations that Samourai was being used for money laundering:

Image of a tweet from Hill “Europol also highlighted Samourai Wallet as an emerging ‘top threat’ in same article. Do you see us shitting in our pants?”

Similarly, RODRIGUEZ and HILL possessed and transmitted to potential investors marketing materials that discussed how Samourai’s customer base was intended to include criminals seeking privacy or the subversion of safeguards and reporting requirements by financial institutions. For example, in Samourai’s marketing materials, RODRIGUEZ and HILL similarly acknowledge that the individuals most likely to use a service like Samourai include individuals engaged in criminal activities, including “Restricted Markets.”

In the below excerpt from Samourai’s marketing materials, RODRIGUEZ and HILL acknowledge that its revenues will be derived from “Dark/Grey Market participants” seeking to “swap their bitcoins with multiple parties” to avoid detection:

Image from Samourai’s marketing materials acknowledging revenues will be derived from “Dark/Grey Market participants”

In Samourai’s marketing materials, RODRIGUEZ and HILL promoted Samourai’s Wallet and its “Mixing Service” as a “Premium Privacy Service” for transactions involving the proceeds of goods and services that include, among other things, “Illicit Activity.”

* * *

RODRIGUEZ, 35, of Harmony, Pennsylvania, and HILL, 65, a U.S. national who was arrested in Portugal, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

Mr. Williams praised the investigative work of IRS-CI and the FBI. He also acknowledged the assistance of the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs. Mr. Williams also thanked Europol, the Portugal Judiciary Police, the Icelandic Police, the FBI Field Office in Pittsburgh, the FBI’s International Operations Division, and the IRS-CI Los Angeles Field Office for their assistance in the investigation of this case.

This case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit and Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew K. Chan and David R. Felton are in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.