Candidates have been asked to provide a brief statement in 250 words or less as to why they are interested in becoming a member of the Greene Central School Board of Education. The Board Clerk has posted the statements as she received them and in the order the candidates will appear on the ballot for the May 20, 2025 Budget Vote and Board Member Election. Please note that the statements from each candidate have been posted as they were submitted and were not edited in any manner except to create a uniform font.
Angela Fiato:
My commitment, passion and experience span my 30 years as an educator in Greene and over 15 years as a resident of Greene. Having raised three daughters in this district and seeing firsthand how the positive impact from the school & community influenced them as individuals, has left an impression on me. Greene Central School District is unique in so many wonderful ways. It is a place whereby an entire education team will support a struggling student, a school musical can sell out three nights in a row, CASA and Hartwick College awards are given to our art students, mastery levels on regents exams are achieved, seals of biliteracy awarded annually and the athletics are known to go to states. The list goes on.
It has been an honor to have had the opportunity to have worked with students both in school and out of school. Within the last ten years, my experience includes multiple student-led events such as homecoming, junior prom and even a Trail Run as class and student council advisor. In addition, I have served as coach for JRC teams, Girls on the Run coach and am a current board member of the Greene Community Scholarship Fund.
I have observed for decades that GCS is the heartbeat of the community. Although I am approaching retirement, please allow me to continue as a Board Member in keeping this heartbeat healthy.
Renee Rideout:
My Name is Renee Rideout. My husband and I are proud parents of a 17-year-old who currently attends Greene School and a 19-year-old who graduated from Greene. I am seeking election to the Greene Board of Education, where I am currently serving a partial term.
Throughout my time on the board, I have gained valuable experience and a clear understanding of the commitment, time, and responsibility it takes to make decisions that impact our students, schools, and community. This is not a role one takes on for recognition or personal ambition but rather out of a genuine desire to serve.
As I seek the opportunity to continue serving, I've reflected deeply on why this work matters to me. I have always felt a strong passion for the mental and educational well-being of todays youth. The challenges they face in an ever-changing world are significant, and I believe this should inspire all of us not to sit on the sidelines, but to get involved and make a difference.
I recognize that the impact I hope to make cannot be achieved by my efforts alone. My faith guides me, and I believe that as a community, we have the power to provide the best possible education and support to help our young people grow and succeed.
I humbly ask for your support in this endeavor. Your vote is a statement about the education and values we wish to uphold for our children and for future generations.
Lindsay McCandless:
My dedication to education has been lifelong, continuing with my seeking election to the Greene Board of Education. Having taught for fifteen years, I also served in several leadership roles (Advisor, Coach, BGTA Vice-President, National Honor Society Committee, and Life Beyond High School (LBHS)) which enabled me to work closely with district leadership and the community.
As a resident of Greene and a parent to children who have graduated from and are currently in the District, my family has benefitted from a variety of academic and extra-curricular programs. It is a privilege to attend events and see how parents and the community come together to support these programs, even when they may not have their own children in them; this is a testament to our community's character.
Today, I am employed as a Labor Relations Specialist for NYSUT. I work with districts across the Southern Tier, where I see challenges not exclusive to GCS. Recruiting/retaining quality educators is one of our greatest challenges. Offering outstanding programming to students, in a safe environment, while being a good steward of taxpayers' dollars is paramount. My experience with school budgets, contract negotiations, Education Law, and establishing productive relationships make me an ideal candidate for this role.
Fiscal responsibility, compliance with mandates, and rising costs will test our commitment to the District's mission. Transparency and communication with residents are imperative, and I have the experience and disposition to make a positive difference as a Board member at Greene.
Christopher Lyons:
Hello, my name is Chris Lyons and I am working on becoming a member of the Greene Central School Board of Education. I have lived in the Town of Greene with my wife Karen since 1999. We were both raised in the southern tier and I have had ties to Greene since my childhood. In the time that we have lived in Greene, I have served on various boards since 2002. I was a member of the Town Planning Board for sixteen years. During that time, I also served on the Chenango County Planning Board representing the Town of Greene for a few years.
After my time on the planning board, I served on the Board of Directors at a non-profit pregnancy resource center, Life Choices Center in Binghamton for six years. For most of that time serving as the treasurer.
I am currently serving on the board of directors of the Greene Lions Club.
My 35+ year working career as an engineer with both BAE Systems and The Raymond Corporation recently finished with my retirement. My plan for retirement is to continue volunteering and serving in various ways. Being on the school board is part of that continued service.
Christopher Austin:
My name is Christopher Austin I am seeking a three year term to the board of education. Last year I was elected to a one year term to serve. Unfortunately I had a rough year with life changing illness. I am happy to report that my health is better and I am ready to serve.
I served on the board for a number of years in the 1990's and early 2000's. While serving I learned a lot of valuble skills. How to balance a budget for taxpayers and how to put different topics up for vote. In my time there were numerous projects including the pool, track and turf football fields and the addition to the music suite. I now think I have some valuable knowledge
After being on the board for the past year I belive that GCS is in good hands. The board President is very good. And I would like the oppurtanity to work with this group of people for another 3 years.
I would ask you to get out and vote and would appreciate you support.
Christopher Austin
Rachel Parsons:
I'm running for the Greene School Board because I care deeply about the future of our school and the success of all students. I believe in the importance of listening to families, supporting our teachers, and making thoughtful decisions that reflect the needs of our community.
As someone who has worked in education, I understand the value of strong public schools in shaping responsible, capable young people. I'm committed to keeping Greene schools a place where students can learn, grow, and be well prepared for what comes next -- whether that's college, a career, or service. I believe in fairness, transparency, and open communication. I want to be a voice for parents and community members who care about maintaining high standards without unnecessary politics