Patricia S. Gordon - Candidate for Board of Education

1. Tell us about your background.  What skills would you bring to the Board of Education in the way of experience, knowledge, etc.?

I am an educator, having been an elementary teacher, guidance counselor and principal in the New York City school system.  In addition after retirement, I was an adjunct professor at York College of CUNY. I served two terms on the Westbury, NY BoE. I served the Howard County public as a BOE member from December 2000 to December 2010. 

2. Why do you want to serve on the Board of Education?

I want to serve on the BoE to continue my role as an educator.  I found great satisfaction in being a part of shaping the growth and learning of young people. Further, I wish  to do my part in creating a collaborative, civil, goal oriented Board. I believe that my experience and understanding of the issues will be of value to the system as a whole.

3. What do you see as the 3 biggest issues/challenges facing the school system over the next couple of years?  How would you work to meet these challenges?

Since education is our prime objective, the most important issue is to continue to improve the teaching, learning situation. I believe that we must re-examine our goals and realign them with the present condition of our civilization. The 21st century has the benefit of the cumulative knowledge accumulated over the ages to provide us with the means to have more visionary objectives. Science has progressed. The social condition has become more complicated given the interaction of all the global cultures given the ability to communicate easily instantly.

Secondly, it is important for the school board to devise the means to work cooperatively together so that our goals will be achievable.  

Lastly, all elements of the system must work together to assist the new superintendent in leading us in the effort to achieve our mutual goals.

4. How would you work cooperatively and collaboratively with other Board members and the Superintendent and staff to build a Board of Education that works together in the best interests of the students?

First of all, I would listen with an entirely open mind to the suggestions and recommendations of staff, being aware that they were chosen for their positions based on their expertise, training and backgrounds. I will consult with them for clarification of their conclusions and recommendations and make them aware in advance of open meetings of my reservations and concerns, if any. I will maintain an open relationship with the Superintendent, feeling free to make him/her aware of my position on all issues. I will aim to maintain a collaborative relationship with my colleagues on the board, and respectively disagree in open discussion if I do not share the views of any or all on a given issue.

5. What is your favorite aspect of living in Howard County?

Multiculturalism. As a northerner, i didn't know what to expect on moving "south". I find that Howard County has a culture of acceptance of each other's difference and respect for and celebration of those differences.  I must also mention that the enthusiastic support for education is a rare and remarkable feature of Howard County life.

6. Finally, please state the URL of your webpage where people can find more information about you, if you have one.

My webpage is in the process of being developed. I will forward it when it is up and running.