I have known Pat Aitken for over 15 years. I am proud to call her “friend”, but lets be honest, that is not a reason she should be a Board of Education member! I want to share why I have such great admiration and respect for her and her role on the Manhasset Board of Education.
For nine years Pat has been a voice of reason, especially regarding fiscal responsibility. She has been able to objectively walk a fine line during the budget process balancing the financial constraints and the needs of our children.
She has no personal agenda which tends to cloud the judgement of even the most well intended at times.
As an accomplished financial professional, Pat is able to bring her expertise to the Board of Education on the critical matters. She does so without pre-conceived views or influence which could negatively impact the budget process. ( ie: unions, etc)
I have always believed the Board of Education should be run like a business. When emotion, lack of financial knowledge and business sense come into play, it creates havoc in the decision making process of the Board of Education.
Pat remains calm, professional and steadfast in the most turbulent of times. I have seen her turn around and create calm within a situation to remain on course and work toward goals. Pat is able to present her views, listen to others and even to “agree to disagree” without offending people.
Believe me, we have had many conversations over the years regarding Board of Education and school issues that we butt heads on.
You cannot walk away from Pat, even in disagreement, and not respect and have learned something from her. .
We all need to look at the candidates and chose the person who can best represent us. Don’t be swayed by who is in your child’s grade, lives down the block or belongs to your club.
Please join me in voting for Pat Aitken on May 20. We need her to remain “our voice” within the Board of Education. She has proven she can get the job done, and is able to lead us into the future.
Eileen Koufakis
Manhasset
