CONNETQUOT

Jaclyn Napolitano-Furno (incumbent)

A lifelong Connetquot resident, 1996 alumna, mother of two district students, and proud daughter of a Vietnam veteran, Napolitano-Furno is deeply rooted in this community. For the past six years she has been a dedicated member of the Connetquot Board of Education, known for her strong advocacy for traditional educational values and community involvement, with over 25 years in law enforcement, including service in the NYPD and OBCPD. Coming from a background in youth advocacy as a school youth officer, Napolitano-Furno brings real-world experience in leadership, problem solving, conflict resolution skills, crisis management, and supporting young people.

“It has been an honor to serve as your Connetquot Board of Education trustee for the past six years. Throughout that time, I’ve stayed true to the principles of integrity, transparency, and always putting students first. Every decision I’ve made reflects our shared values and a commitment to helping all students thrive.

I’ve worked collaboratively to strengthen academic excellence, expand learning opportunities, and enhance student support services while maintaining fiscal responsibility and prioritizing safe, inclusive school environments. I’ve built trust through open communication, respect for parental rights, and a deep appreciation for community voices.

There is still important work to do. With your support, I will continue advocating for strong academic programs, honest and responsible budgeting, and policies rooted in accountability and compassion. I believe parents have a right to know what their children are learning, and that education should remain focused on essential skills not politics.

As a trustee, I’ve remained strongly focused on how every taxpayer dollar is spent. Our community deserves full transparency, sound financial oversight, and budgets that support students without placing added strain on families. I’m committed to continuing to safeguard your investment in our schools.

I respectfully ask for your vote so I can continue serving Connetquot with clarity, purpose, and unwavering dedication to every student, every family, and our entire community. Let’s keep moving forward together.”

CONNETQUOT

Sara Parisi (challenger)

Sara Parisi is a lifelong Connetquot resident, public school parent, and former president of the Board of Education. A successful tech entrepreneur with deep roots in this community, she brings experience, common sense, and a results-driven mindset to public service. Her children attend Connetquot schools, and she understands firsthand the importance of strong, student-centered leadership. Parisi has led major district wins—from preserving our owned bus fleet to renegotiating costly legacy deals—always with a focus on transparency and fairness. She is a collaborative problem-solver who listens first, acts with integrity, and delivers real results for students, staff, and taxpayers.

“I firmly believe I offer the best choice for Connetquot’s future. Our district deserves to be the most highly respected and efficiently managed school system on Long Island—and I have the leadership record to help us get there.

My top priorities are clear: fiscal responsibility, academic excellence, and respectful, effective governance. That means asking tough questions, building consensus, and leading with common sense. During my prior term, I tackled longstanding financial inefficiencies, uncovered and corrected a decades-old ‘handshake deal’ costing the district hundreds of thousands, and ensured vital services—like our owned-and-operated bus fleet—remained in district hands.

I also helped resolve years of staff contract disputes, bringing stability and fairness to our district workforce. I’m proud of those accomplishments, but I’m even more committed to what lies ahead.

Good boards function as effective teams. I model every trait the NYS School Boards Association says matters: I communicate clearly, listen with respect, make decisions with conviction, and prioritize the needs of our students and families. I bring practical, collaborative leadership—not grandstanding—and I will continue working for solutions that unite, not divide.

With your support, I’ll keep pushing for transparency, strong schools, and responsible stewardship of our district’s future.

Vote Sara Parisi on May 20. A committed voice for Connetquot—rooted in common sense and decency.”

BAYPORT-BLUE POINT

Sandi Kanne (incumbent, unopposed)

Kanne is a Bayport-Blue Point High School alumna (1997),  with a bachelor of science degree in accounting from the Honors Program at Boston College (2001). She has held the following professional positions: Pricewaterhouse Coopers (external audit), Viacom (internal audit), and CBS Radio (corporate finance). Kanne earned her CPA earned in 2003 and does not currently practice.

In the community, Kanne has served as: BBP Youth Football trustee/cheer coordinator (six years)/coach (five years); class parent (11 classes); Girl Scout leader/Cookie Chair; CARE Committee; Budget Advisory Committee; PTA (Yearbook, Memory Book, 5th; 8th Grade Committee, Staff Appreciation, Scholastic Book Fair, Board of Ed Liaison, After-School Enrichment and Holiday Fair); active in JWY PTA, BBPHSPTSA, SEED, Booster Club, SEA-BBS BOE: Policy, Audit,&  Health Committees, NYSSBA Voting Delegate, NYSSBA Annual Conference Representative.       

“The student experience is my priority. I believe that BBP is, and should continuously strive to be a place where students develop a strong academic foundation, with opportunities for growth, enrichment, and support. This includes gifted and talented programming, workshops, Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment courses, BOCES, and electives. I hold dear the BBP motto: ‘Where you Belong, where we Believe in you, and where anything is Possible.’ Everyone—students, faculty, staff, and administrators—should be able to find a place and a supportive ear at BBP. I support analyzing club participation and adjusting our offerings as interests evolve. We continue to expand athletic offerings so kids remain active while bonding with peers, irrespective of gender or ability.

Our music and art department is a place where everyone can be free to create. I champion mental health initiatives so that everyone in our school community knows that it’s OK to seek balance and take a break, and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

I believe in the value of public education. School should be a place where teachers, administrators, and staff enjoy working, and where students are excited to learn, socialize, and thrive. BBP is a community where people want to live, and I always keep taxpayers in mind, supporting efficiency in budgeting, responsible spending, long-term

fiscal planning, and strategic savings without overburdening our residents. I continue to vote in favor of volunteer firepersons tax credits, and caps for low-income seniors.

Please vote. Thank you, Phantoms!”

BAYPORT-BLUE POINT

Jack Sautter (seat 2)

Originally from rural Nebraska, John A. “Jack” Sautter lives in Blue Point with his wife Antonia and three kids: Katherine, John and Aurelia. A U.S. Marine Corps Reserve lieutenant colonel, Afghanistan combat veteran, and a Regional Counsel for the Federal U.S. Department of Transportation, Sautter’s professional career has been in public service. A former adjunct college professor with a J.D. and Ph.D., Sautter has published numerous articles including research on educational psychology and education tax reform. Sautter is a former BBP Youth Lacrosse coach, coaches Baymen Soccer, and is an active member of the BBP School Board Budget Advisory Committee.

“Students First – Teachers Always. As a member of the BBP School Board, I will work to protect students, empower teachers and continue the long tradition of BBP as the Jewel of the Southshore. Our schools have been providing an excellent education for our community and I am committed to preserving the standard of quality education that has been set over generations.

Through my work on the BBP Budget Advisory Committee I have been tracking on the historic financial issues our district has faced and will be facing in the upcoming years. In my professional life I am the legal advisor for a $43 billion portfolio of transportation infrastructure projects in the New York and New Jersey Region in which the Federal government is a partner. As a US Department of Transportation attorney, I work with large scale government contracting, budgeting and long-term planning. I have experience evaluating capital plans and will be effective with fellow school board members in working to prepare our district for future challenges.

Finally, from my experience as a military officer I know that problem solving on a team takes dedication to mission accomplishment. I will work with and listen to all differing opinions, and through collaboration find solutions to future challenges. I will always follow the best ideas, even when they are not my own. Through active listening to all community members, robust participation in district functions, and support to school administrators, I will actively engage important issues that come before the BBP School Board.”

BAYPORT-BLUE POINT

Robert McLaughlin (seat 2)

Robert McLaughlin is running for the  Bayport-Blue Point School Board because he is “passionate about preparing students for real-world success.”

“With experience as an electrician, business owner, teacher, director, and CEO, I bring a well-rounded perspective on education, workforce development, and leadership. I’m solution-driven and committed to practical, results-oriented policies that support both students and teachers. My focus is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness by promoting intentional skill development—academic, technical, and interpersonal. I want every student to graduate not just with knowledge, but with confidence, purpose, and the tools to thrive in life and work.”

“Just like in any well-designed electrical system, I am ready to help complete the circuit—working with the Bayport-Blue Point School Board and superintendent Dr. Hearney—while providing just the right amount of resistance to keep our decisions smart, balanced, and effective.

The Bayport-Blue Point community is, and will continue to be, a strong and top-performing district. I have deep respect for our dedicated teachers and district leadership. My goal is not to introduce sudden change, but to serve with intention—taking the time to listen, learn, and understand the unique challenges we face. I will work closely with all stakeholders to help shape practical, productive, and well-represented solutions.

As the New York State Education Department expands multiple, rigorous diploma pathways, I am well-positioned to support our students. My diverse background as an electrician, teacher, business owner, and CEO allows me to bridge classroom learning with real-world skills. I understand how to build relationships with industry partners, expanding opportunities that prepare our students for life, college, careers, service, and citizenship.

Looking ahead, I believe we have an incredible opportunity to strengthen our

district—not just for current students, but for future families who will be drawn to Bayport-Blue Point because of our shared commitment to education. Together, we can grow opportunities that benefit the entire community and inspire confidence in our children’s future.

And don’t worry—I promise not to trip any breakers at my first board meeting… unless it’s metaphorical and really needed.”

BAYPORT-BLUE POINT

Adam Schneider (seat 2)

“I am a lifelong learner devoted to education. I grew up in Miller Place and Massapequa, but Bayport is my forever home. I live here with my wife and two children, an 11- and 14-year-old. I started my career as a third-grade teacher in 1999. In 2016, I launched the STEAM program at my current school, which I still teach today. My career includes roles as a project manager for an EdTech company, managing the technology program at a charter school network in Harlem, and consulting for NYC and Jersey City public schools in implementing educational technology.”

“I am running as a trustee for the Board of Education because I am passionate about ensuring quality education for all students and supporting educators in their vital role. The Bayport-Blue Point School District has a unique and magical aura where students feel safe, at home, and genuinely cared for by the community. This nurturing environment was something I cherished growing up, and I am grateful that my children experience the same sense of belonging and security at school. As a trustee, I will be committed to maintaining and enhancing this supportive atmosphere, ensuring that our district continues to prioritize the best interests of every student, including those who are marginalized. By fostering an inclusive and caring environment, we can help all students thrive academically and personally. I believe that a strong, supportive school district is the foundation for a brighter future for our youth, and I am dedicated to working towards this goal. My vision includes advocating for resources and programs that support diverse learning needs, promoting mental health and well-being, and encouraging community involvement in our schools. Together, we can build a district where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. I am excited to bring my experience and passion to the Board of Education and work collaboratively to make Bayport-Blue Point an even better place for our children to learn and grow.”

SAYVILLE

Christine Sarni (incumbent, seat 1)

Christine Sarni has served on the Sayville School District Board of Education since 2022 and is a 20-year resident of Sayville/West Sayville. An 18-year educator in the Farmingdale School District, she currently works as a labor relations specialist at NYSUT. Sarni is the proud parent of two college-aged daughters and an active member of multiple civic organizations, including the Sayville Civic Association, Sayville Rotary Club and Sayville Village Improvement Society. With deep experience in education law, budgeting, and community leadership, she is committed to supporting students, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and preserving the strength of Sayville schools.

“As a Board of Education trustee, my top priority is ensuring every Sayville student has access to a high-quality, well-rounded education—academically, socially, and emotionally—while remaining fiscally responsible to our taxpayers.

With a background in education and labor relations, I work to balance student needs with smart budgeting under the tax cap. I’ve supported expanded academic offerings, advocated for improved student services, and championed fairness in our local tax structure, including exemptions for seniors and first responders.

Looking ahead, Sayville—like many districts—faces the complex challenge of declining enrollment. We must engage in long-term planning and creative problem-solving to adapt proactively. This includes evaluating building use, staffing models, program sustainability, and hiring practices to ensure we continue delivering excellence without compromising our values or financial stability.

I believe in collaborative leadership and open communication with families, staff, and community members. I will continue working to secure increased state aid, reduce unfunded mandates, and make informed, transparent decisions.

My goal is to preserve the excellence of Sayville schools for future generations by listening, leading with integrity, and planning responsibly for what’s ahead.”

SAYVILLE

Teal Rizzo (challenger to seat 1)

“My name is Teal Rizzo, running for the expiring seat of Christine Sarni. My husband and I are 33-year contributing Sayville School District community members. We are proud parents of two Sayville graduates, who are now successful business owners. We anticipate the blessing of grandchildren in Sayville. Our district is in our hearts and makes our community a vibrant, attractive place to live. We are giving, humble people. Whether it be a 9/11 first responder, local volunteerism, community advocacy, or anonymous donations, we always support the community we cherish. Our children have learned from us.

“For 30 years, I’ve advocated for educational programs, transparency and valued community participation. A research analyst, with a background in law, finance, management, negotiations and leadership, I will promote a culture of excellence for students and staff, in a welcome and safe environment, meeting expectations of excellent academic education and other paths our children choose to excel, geared to the unique nature of each child.

This election is particularly important: I located our last fiscal year-end audit, where I noticed a never before steep decline in our restricted fund balances, while voter approved budgets were nearly fully spent also. Combined with the newly proposed 2025-2026 budget, this depletion in restricted fund balances is expected to reach approximately $8,500,000.00 since the year 2023.

The end result is dangerously low figures and should have never occurred. The steep declines, reported to NYS, will surely downgrade our rating, thereby increasing our interest rates on borrowing in years to come, at the potential expense of our children’s programs and staffing. These cuts are already occurring—a contradiction to what you will see in the “Tidings” mailer—along with cuts to capital projects, which generate NYS aid, therefore needed to decrease property taxpayer burden and fund our programs and staff.

I would be privileged to hold a seat, assist fellow board members to stop these damaging depletions and properly replenish the funds with new funding sources, while maintaining our long-held fiscal stability, excellent reputation, wonderful programs, and dedicated staff, yet ensuring this burden does not shift onto local property taxpayers.

Transparency is key to engaging discussion and making this possible.”

SAYVILLE

Alyson Ryan  (seat 2)

Alyson Ryan is a Sayville parent who believes strong schools build strong communities. With over 18 years of experience leading teams, building partnerships, and growing a successful practice, she knows how to listen, lead thoughtfully, and make smart, transparent decisions—especially in challenging times. Committed to fiscal responsibility, open communication, and ensuring every student feels supported, Ryan is running to serve not just Sayville families, but the entire community. She’s eager to give back to the community that embraced her family by serving on the Board of Education with care, clarity, and collaboration.

“As a candidate for the Board of Education, I’m committed to rebuilding trust between the board and the community—ensuring every decision reflects our shared values and puts students first.

Promoting Student Excellence

Academic success is essential, but so is nurturing creativity and emotional growth. I support inclusive learning environments, robust arts and music programs, thoughtful technology integration, and strong anti-bullying efforts. Expansion in these areas must be approached strategically and responsibly.

Preparing Students for the Future

Whether pursuing college, trades, or the workforce, students need real-world skills, including financial literacy. I’ll emphasize grant funding and community partnerships to expand career, technical, and enrichment programs as our financial situation improves.

Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility

As a business owner and parent, I understand the importance of managing a tight budget. We must focus on what matters most—student success and teacher support—while ensuring financial transparency and efficiency. Additionally, I will advocate for rebuilding district reserve funds whenever possible to ensure financial stability.

Supporting Our Teachers

Teachers are at the heart of student success. I’ll work to keep our district a competitive and supportive place to work, even during tough financial times, while advocating for the funding they deserve.

Strengthening Mental Health Supports

Emotional well-being is the foundation of learning. I will champion accessible mental health services and programs that help students build resilience and confidence without draining district resources.

Building a Stronger Community

Strong schools depend on strong partnerships. I’ll bring parents, educators, and local organizations together to find collaborative solutions that move Sayville forward.

SAYVILLE

Jason Rowland  (seat 2)

Jason Rowland is a longtime Sayville resident, husband, and father of two elementary students. A first-time Board of Education candidate, he brings over a decade of legal and regulatory experience as a risk and compliance officer for a major international company. Rowland recently earned his law degree and has built his career on oversight, accountability, and public service. He has served for the past two years as a parent representative on the Cherry Avenue Elementary Site-Based Team. A dedicated community member, Rowland enjoys music, sports, and coaching in Sayville Little League.

“I’m running for BOE to restore transparency and uphold the law. I’ll advocate for parents’ rights, support our teachers, ensure fiscal responsibility, and keep student success at the forefront. Sayville deserves honest, accountable leadership—and I’m ready to deliver it. As a law school graduate and career compliance officer, I’ll bring a detail-focused, legal-minded approach to ensure the district stays compliant with state and federal education laws. I’ll ask the tough questions, expect real oversight, and make sure our policies serve those they are intended to help.

I believe in supporting parental choice and recognizing the important role families play in their children’s education. The board should respect that role—not replace it—and focus on creating policies that empower, not overreach. Families are partners in this process, and their voices should be heard throughout the year, not just during public comment.

Financial responsibility is another key focus. I support initiatives like zero-based budgeting and the creation of Budget Advisory Committees to evaluate spending and find opportunities for efficiency without sacrificing student programs.

I will support teachers by advocating for resources, reducing unnecessary burdens, ensuring their voices are heard in policy decisions, and promoting an environment where educators can thrive and feel secure in their place in our community.

I will advocate for safe, inclusive learning environments, stronger academic interventions, and a school culture that prepares students for real-world success. I’m running because I care deeply about this district—and I believe Sayville deserves leadership that’s honest, engaged, and transparent.”

SAYVILLE

Christopher Robertson (seat 2)

“I love education! I have a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in music technology.  This is my 22nd year of teaching.  I have the privilege of teaching students of all ages and abilities.  I’ve taught at every level, from Kindergarten to AP classes.  I was honored as the 2014 East Islip Middle School Teacher of the Year.  I have two wonderful children who are in the fourth and second grade at Lincoln Avenue Elementary.  I am also the East Islip varsity golf coach and help run Suffolk County High School Golf.”

“My love of education is the main reason I am running for the Sayville BOE.  Over the last few years, I feel that Sayville needs more educational advocates.  I, like many residents, am frustrated by the negative press which Sayville has recently received.  Lawsuits and central administration turnover have tarnished our wonderful community reputation.  Taxpayers should not be paying for lawyers and lawsuits!  We should be paying for great educational opportunities for our children!  My main priorities if elected to the Sayville BOE, are to increase revenue, provide stability, raise morale and increase our educational opportunities for our students.  On the revenue side, we can generate funds by hosting dance competitions, karate tournaments, craft fairs, music productions etc.  I also want to create a good five-year fiscal plan. We should not have to worry about eliminating one program over another on a year-to-year basis.  The proposed 25-26 budget has been a see-saw ride on which programs to keep and which programs to cut.   People want consistency and stability, and that starts at the top.  This inconsistency has led to position cuts and lower morale.  By being fiscally responsible, we can hopefully eliminate this terrible situation from happening in the future.  We have wonderful students and teachers here in Sayville!  I want to give them the full support, tools and equipment they deserve to create an amazing learning environment. Lastly, I would like to gradually expand our music and arts education available to our students.”