League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area Education Fund
	Hamilton County, OH November 3, 2009 Election
	Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues Board Member; Sycamore Community School District

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area and asked of all candidates for this office.     See below for questions on Qualification, Priorities Click on a name for candidate information.   See also more information about this contest. 1. What are your Qualifications for Office? (50 word limit) Answer from John W. Mercurio: As a six-year member of the Sycamore Planning Commission, I prepared and presented analyses of financial, demographic and academic data to the Board of Education. I was an active member of the schools' Levy Renewal Committee in 2009. Also, I'm a taxpayer and a parent of five young children. Answer from Diane Adamec: My experience over the past four years has prepared me well to serve another term. As a P&G manager for 18 years, I successfully led others to achieve high goals, eliminate waste, and improve operations. I have served my community through many volunteer activities focusing on children and education. Answer from Jean A. Staubach: As the most experienced member of the Board of Education, I have unique understanding of the foundations of Sycamore's success and historical knowledge that will help plan the future. I understand how important it is, as well as how to, set direction, make long-term plans, and then execute those plans. 2. What plans do you have to address your top three priorities? (100 word limit) Answer from Diane Adamec: An open, honest dialog with the Sycamore community is key to serving our schools. I will work in partnership with the school board, administration, and staff to maintain the highest quality education possible for our children while improving cost efficiency. I will listen attentively to the needs of our community and cut unnecessary spending, utilize existing facilities efficiently, and proactively communicate the district's goals and successes in these areas. Answer from Jean A. Staubach: I have had the same priorities since elected to the Board - academic excellence, strong fiscal management, and communication - the same goals shared by our community. We have been effective with moving forward with these priorities and have evidence to document our success in each of these areas. Although Sycamore has been a leader in academic excellence and fiscal management for many years, we have never become and cannot become complacent or rest on our laurels. I will continue to work to insure that Sycamore maintains this excellence and stays focused on the outcomes that our community expects. Answer from John W. Mercurio: 1) Finances: I'll use my experience in gathering, analyzing and interpreting the schools' financial, academic and enrollment data to make sure all taxpayers receive the greatest value for their investment. 2) Academics: I'll work to ensure the long-term excellence of Sycamore academics by retaining high-quality, experienced teachers. I also want to create a "welcome" program for new residents whereby information is gathered to enable the schools to better plan for future enrollment and academic needs. 3) Communications: I'll work to improve communication between diverse segments of our community, so that our schools work to the benefit of all. Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. Word limits apply for each question. Direct references to opponents are not permitted. The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.