Brian Carso

Why are you running for school board?

I’m running because I bring a unique skill set to educational leadership. I’ve practiced law and served as a high-level administrator in state government. For 17 years I’ve taught college students as a professor of history and government at Misericordia University. I’ve served on the school board since 2015, and have learned the important work the board does and applied my skills and experience to keep our schools among the best in the state.

What are the top three issues facing the school district today and how do you plan to address them?

Every child has unique abilities and dreams. First, I want to assure that DV continues to provide excellent opportunities for every one of our kids. We need to prepare young people to compete in a fast-changing world. School boards make a difference: some are forward-looking and energetic, while others can be stagnant and dull. There are great ideas and energy at DV, and I will continue to support the highest level of achievement.

Second, I want to keep politics off the school board. The nationwide effort to infect school boards with culture war issues — like banning books — is as prevalent at DV school board meetings as anywhere else in the country. We don’t want a small group of vocal people imposing a political agenda on curriculum. There are 4,000 students served by DV, and we should find ways to appeal to all their talents and interests.

Third, while DV is regularly cited as one of Pennsylvania’s top districts for academic and extracurricular excellence, it’s also one of the most cost-effective districts. This benefits all residents and taxpayers, who see their property values increase because of good schools and low taxes. I’ll work, as always, to see that our taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

What sets you apart from your challengers?

DV is an enormously important part of our community. It deserves competent and experienced leadership. Because of my experience in law, government, and education, I bring a strong vision of how our schools can best educate our young people to succeed and enhance the value of living in northeastern PA for all of us. With your vote, I will continue to work diligently to bring educational vision and effective management to our schools and community.