To the Editor:

I would like to announce my candidacy for a seat on the Potsdam Central School Board of Education. As a passionate advocate for education and community involvement, I believe that serving on the school board is a natural extension of my dedication to fostering a positive learning environment for our students.

With over thirty years of teaching experience at the public school level, I am currently employed as an International Baccalaureate French Teacher at Massena Central School District. During my tenure as a public school educator, I have also served students as a French Teacher and as an English as a New Language (ENL) Teacher.

For over 25 years, I have called Potsdam my home. I am proud to live in the Potsdam Central School District. This pride, coupled with the responsibility of being a father and educator, led me to the decision to run for the position of BOE member. My wife and I adopted two children, both of whom attend PCS. As a BOE member, my goal would be to represent each and every person living in the district. I believe that pouring my energy into this role, coupled with my extensive background in the day-to-day workings of the public school system, will make me an optimal candidate. I would be honored to serve as a voice for students, parents, caregivers, faculty, staff, and community members.  

When I was a student at SUNY Potsdam, I discovered that I had a passion for educating students in public education. I have dedicated the past 30 years to being a positive role model to the faculty, support staff, and students in the districts where I am employed. As the Massena Central High School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee chairperson, I look forward to serving my diverse community as a board member. I firmly believe in the phrase, “It takes a village to raise a child”. Ensuring students and staff have access to appropriate mental health supports for maintaining social and emotional well-being is of utmost importance to me, and I am dedicated to prioritizing their well-being.

Being involved in the shared-decision making process while representing the community, as a whole, would be my favorite aspect of serving on the BOE. It would be an honor to be a voice for all stakeholders involved in the PCS community. 

In closing, I would consider it a great privilege to serve the community on the Potsdam Board of Education. I would appreciate your vote on May 21, 2024.

David DeRushia
Potsdam