CANDIDATES’ QUESTIONNAIRE
For CCS Board of Education in 5/16/17 election
Gillian G. Spencer
COMMUNITY OF RESIDENCE: Cooperstown
EDUCATION:
Cooperstown Central School, 1995, Valedictorian
BA, Brown University, 1999
MA, Art History, Boston University, 2003
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
– School Group Coordinator, Education Department, 1999-2000
– Department Assistant, Art of Europe, 2000-2001
– Research Assistant, Art of Europe, 2003-2004
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:
PTA member and volunteer
Angel Network volunteer
Cotillion Committee member
Cooperstown Art Association volunteer
Soccer Club volunteer coach and fundraiser
FAMILY:
Married to Matthew Spencer, physician. Four children: Liam, age 13, Aidan, 11, Declan, 8, Adeline, 4
PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION:
A good public school system is essential in rural areas. It should provide a well-rounded foundation in education and foster the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of all of our students.
MAJOR ISSUES FACING CCS:
Declining enrollment, high cost of living in our district deterring families from moving in and staff from applying
RELEVANT PERSONAL QUALITIES:
Good listener, open-minded, willing to learn, respectful
STATEMENT/SYNOPSIS:
I believe very strongly in the public school system. A financially sound district with a dedicated and capable administration should provide the support necessary for excellent teaching and learning. The school should engage, educate and prepare all of its students for the future, addressing a wide range of abilities. Extracurricular activities are important to the overall development of our young people. Athletics, arts programs, and clubs of all kinds can enhance a student’s school life by promoting physical, social, and emotional growth and creativity. A well-rounded, positive school experience has a lasting impact on a student’s future. We want our children to be successful, happy, and healthy in whatever endeavor they choose, and I believe that a good public school education can provide the basis for a generation of students who will positively contribute to our society.
