BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN).....There was one common thread through the first three candidates ally vying for the vacant North District seat on the Buffalo Board of Education is was transparency and a focus on education the district's 28,000-plus students.
The Buffalo board is spending Monday vetting six possible candidates to replace Cindi McEachon, who resigned last month over issues connected to alleged sexual harassment charges leveled against now former Superintendent Dr. Pascal Mubenga and Central District representative Lewis (Muti) Hawkins.
The board has until this Friday, July 24 to name a replacement or it falls to Mayor Sean Ryan to select someone to replace McEachon.
Board President Dr. Kathy Evans-Brown said she expects to name a replacement by Wednesday.
Dinorah Santos-Baines said her focus is on improving the educational experience for the district's student population.
"We need to invest more into the students," Santos-Baines said.
A mother of four, Santos-Baines is a product of the Buffalo school system and she said she can bring that experience to the board.
"I know what is needed," Santos-Brown said.
Buffalo businessman, Jack Escheverria made the same pledge.
Escheverria has two children enrolled in School 64 - the Olmsted School.
"It's time to take this opportunity..this bull by the horns and make changes," Escheverria said. "And, no it won't be easy."
Escheverria also advocating for engaging younger students in the educational process, giving them a voice.
"Let's start thinking outside the box," Escheverria said.
Matthew Verrelli, another candidate, urged the board "to keep a level head and think rationally."
"It's important, above all else, to think of the kids," Verrelli said.
ria said.
Buffalo BOE vetting North District candidates
Buffalo BOE vetting North District candidates
