Employed
by NH as a child abuse/neglect investigator
Mary Parah
Why am I running for school board?
I have worked with children and families for over 20 years and I have reached a point in my life where I would like to give back to my community. I believe in public education for all students and meeting the educational needs of the entire school district. I think it will be important to strengthen the relationship between the school district and the community.
What do you see as the biggest challenges ahead for the Goffstown School District?
I believe the biggest challenge is the budget. The economy has affected everyone. Our money does not stretch as far as it used to. This is also the challenge that is affecting the Goffstown school district. There needs to be transparent communication between the school board, budget committee and Goffstown residents on how to produce a budget by meeting the needs of Goffstown’s students, employees and residents in an equitable manner that does not negatively impact students learning and achievement.
What are your ideas for keeping school costs manageable in a down economy?
I like to think one of my qualities is to come into a situation and assess what is going on and then make recommendations.
Everyone has needed to cut back and tighten their budget in this economy. I believe we need to take a look at line items to help manage costs. Overall student needs must come before district wants at this particular time. An example would be Technology line items. Smart boards are a great overall want in moving the district forward, but the need of the students and classrooms is to
have working computers. Ultimately in this down economy my idea would be placing need before want.
