Frank Miranda said he decided not to seek re-election on New Hyde Park-Garden City Park School Board in 2007 because he wanted to help his two daughters, Alexa and Ashley, with their school work.
But with his help no longer needed and inspired by his work with the Dad’s Club at New Hyde Park Memorial High School, Miranda said he decided to run again for the school board seat left vacant by Annette Giarratani.
“Seeing these people helping out inspired to go back on the board,” Miranda said. “Some of these dads already have children who graduated, but they are still helping out.”
The Dad’s Club helps raise money for student scholarships and also helps with the sporting activities at the school, Miranda said.
Miranda, whose two daughters currently attend New Hyde Park Memorial High School, said a lot of the sporting events he helps with take place on weekends, and he wants to fill his weekdays by helping with activities on the school board.
“I just want to do my part for the community,” Miranda said. “I wish everyone could spend just a little time helping out in the community.
Miranda, who served as a trustee on the school board from 2004 to 2007, currently works for Nassau BOCES in the technology department, and has also been a member of the New Hyde Park Zoning Board of Appeals since 1993.
He said he agrees with New Hyde Park-Garden City Park School Board member Patricia Rudd, and about her concern that people seem to be focusing too much on test statistics rather than the fundamentals of effective teaching.
“I think we should test students on what their true potential is, and their true skill sets,” Miranda said.
Miranda said he also believes one of the most important issues facing the district are the cuts in education from the state, and the rise of taxes that make up the difference.
“Our challenge is to bridge this gap, while maintaining the staff to ensure a solid education for our students,” Miranda said.
