Katonah-Lewisboro Board candidates field questions

By JEFF MORRIS

Though next week’s Board of Education trustee election, with three candidates running for three seats, is essentially unopposed, we asked the candidates to answer three questions. Here are their responses.

The Recorder: What are the two most critical issues now facing KLSD, and how should they be addressed?

Arwen Thomas Belloni: I feel one of the biggest challenges we face is making sure every student — regardless of learning style or need — is getting the academic support and opportunity they deserve. Families want to know their children are being challenged, engaged and supported, and we’ve heard real concerns on that front. At the same time, we need to manage enrollment shifts and budget pressures in a thoughtful way. We have to be proactive — using real data, listening to families and educators, and planning carefully to keep KLSD strong both academically and financially.

Jon Poffenberger: I would say the most critical issue is any federal mandates that may affect funding for KLSD, as well as for all districts. I really believe in what KLSD stands for and sticking to those educational beliefs while facing potential cuts, definitely raises the level of awareness. The board will need to keep up to date with any mandate(s) that may try to direct and affect policies and procedures, and have plans of action ready for numerous scenarios. 

There really isn’t another issue that rises to the top for me because that would not be equitable to any current issue, or critical issues as they arise. The BOE needs to be nimble and ready to address any and all issues, known and yet to be known. That is one aspect that I really enjoy about being part of this board, problem solving as a team in the present, while being proactive and prepared by looking ahead to what might be next. 

Carolyn Snell: KLSD is entering a pivotal moment with two major audits — one focused on literacy and one on special education — both of which will have long-term implications for how we serve students. The first challenge is to ensure these audit results lead to clear, community-informed action. We’ll need to prioritize transparency, hold ourselves accountable to implementation timelines, and commit to ongoing dialogue with families and educators.

The second challenge is maintaining instructional coherence across our schools. Vision 2030 sets a strong direction, but delivering on its promise requires alignment in curriculum, expectations, and support. That’s how we create consistent, equitable learning experiences for every student.

The Recorder: What strengths and expertise do you bring to the board?

Arwen Thomas Belloni: I bring a mix of private sector (financial) and public service education, along with a deep commitment to this community. I worked for years at JPMorgan Chase and have a master’s in public administration, so I’m comfortable with complex budgets, strategic planning, and big-picture problem solving. As a parent of four KLSD kids — three graduates and one still at the middle school — I’ve seen this district through many changes. I care deeply about public education and believe in collaboration, transparency, and doing the work.

Jon Poffenberger: I have been involved in the education of children for over 30 years and it has always been with a student-first mindset. During my time at three different institutions, I coached multiple sports, taught, was an athletic director and predominately a dean of students, spanning from Massachusetts to California and Michigan. All of the schools provided me with multiple views of education and administrative processes, with no two schools the same, either in how the school was managed or the students that attended. Each stop and experience showed me that there isn’t necessarily a “right way,” however, what was consistent was the administration’s foundation of finding the way that worked best for the students. Now on the KLSD BOE, I am able to use my educational background to dive into conversations. My experience allows me to truly understand that there may be various actions and possible outcomes to the issue at hand. All three of my stops were at independent schools and although there are many differences between public and private schools, the students’ experience should always be at the forefront of any decision. Due to my experiences, I am able to look at matters through a different educational lens, which brings value when working as a board team.

Carolyn Snell: I bring a dual perspective — as a former teacher, with experience at county-level education in California, and as a current KLSD parent. I’ve taught first grade, led curriculum initiatives, and now work for a certified B Corp focused on social impact. I understand what drives learning outcomes and how to turn big ideas into clear, practical plans.

I’m also a creative communicator who listens deeply and collaborates well. I’ll bring focus, warmth, and accountability to the work.

The Recorder: As one trustee on a seven-person board, all but one of whom will not yet have served a full term, what steps will you take to get up to speed on legacy issues and ensure the board handles its workload? 

Arwen Thomas Belloni: I plan to hit the ground running — meeting with current and possibly past board members, reading through past minutes and strategic plans, and asking questions. I believe in doing your homework, listening carefully, and showing up prepared. With a newer board, strong teamwork and collaboration will be important!

Jon Poffenberger: The current board members, who are not opting to run again, have done a phenomenal job of sharing their historical views each and every time a discussion arises. On top of that, the one member who is still remaining has such a vast array of historical content, that over the next two years I am confident they will keep the rest of the board fully informed. I am confident that they will willingly pass that knowledge along, as was the case when they first became a board member. Additionally, having the fortune of already serving a one-year term has taught me the value of tapping into this knowledge and not rushing to an opinion without first understanding how similar issues were handled in the past. That is not to say that the outcomes were what was desired or not, however having that information can either assist in intentionally repeating history or choosing a different course.

Carolyn Snell: I plan to start by listening and learning — from fellow and former trustees, the administration, and the broader KLSD community. I’ll review past agendas, budgets, and policy decisions to understand both the issues and the thinking behind them.

I also plan to take full advantage of professional learning opportunities through BOCES to strengthen my understanding of board governance, district operations, and best practices in public education. These resources will help ensure I can contribute thoughtfully and effectively from the start.

As a professional, I’m used to learning quickly, asking the right questions, and translating complexity into action. I look forward to working collaboratively to help the board stay focused, responsive, and aligned with the district’s long-term goals.