Frances “Francy” Forbes is a 12-year incumbent candidate for Bradford Area School Board with petitions filed seeking both Republican and Democratic nomination.

“I would like to continue my support and guidance of our community’s educational experience,” Forbes said. “I believe quality education and a thriving community go hand in hand. Is there room for improvement? Absolutely. But I am up for meeting the challenge.”

Forbes has lived in Bradford for more than 30 years, having raised three children in Bradford’s public schools. She has volunteered many years in school classrooms, on booster organizations, for academic events and on advisory committees for Special Education, Career and Technical Education and Family-Community Involvement. In the community, she is a teacher and past coordinator in her church’s children’s ministry. Professionally, she is financial and business manager for the family’s livestock production operation. Like all schools, Bradford’s face challenges — funding and a divided social landscape being the most difficult, Forbes said.

“Working within our means and maintaining resources, both in buildings and personnel are key. Creativity and flexibility go a long way,” she said.

“There are often no black and white answers in regard to school issues,” Forbes added. “Public schools have a responsibility to provide quality education and safety to all students in our community.”

She said board members should base decisions on prioritizing students’ needs, factual and complete information, current federal and state laws, open communication and transparency, and fiscal responsibility.

Forbes also encourages positive student involvement in the community with initiatives like Honor Flight, United Way Ambassadors, career and technical co-op placements and family involved events.

“Both school and community prosper from collaboration,” Forbes stated, adding she supports the continuation of a wide variety of academic and extracurricular offerings.

These programs, Forbes said, allow every child to find a place to belong and provide support for them to become their best selves — in school and in the future.

“I value your support in the upcoming primary election. Please take the time to vote May 20. Our community depends on it,” Forbes said. “Together, we can support our children and schools to be the best they can be.”