Each year the Council hosts a Candidates Forum, where the community can meet our candidates,
hear them speak and have an opportunity to ask them questions.
The link to the recorded Clarkstown Council of PTAs 2025 Board of Education Candidates Forum
Monday May 12th at 6:30pm will be available for viewing Tuesday May 13th
There will be NO LIVE STREAM of the forum!
hear them speak and have an opportunity to ask them questions.
The link to the recorded Clarkstown Council of PTAs 2025 Board of Education Candidates Forum
Monday May 12th at 6:30pm will be available for viewing Tuesday May 13th
There will be NO LIVE STREAM of the forum!
This year, the Clarkstown School Budget
and Board of Education Member Election will be on
Tuesday-May 20, 2025
The Clarkstown Central School District Board of Education is a seven-member Board elected by district residents. Each member of the Board serves for three years. The terms of office of Board members shall not all expire in the same year. Board members are responsible for school district management and policy-making.
For the 2025-26 academic year, 2 of the seats on the CCSD Board of Education are up for re-election.
- John Maltbie
- Dr. Brian Montes
In order for our community to get an idea of what each candidate stands for, what they hope to bring to the board and to get a feel for who they are, so that community members are able to make an informed decision when voting for your next Board of Education team, the Clarkstown Council of PTAs, in addition to hosting the Candidates forum, sends a questionnaire to all candidates. Those answers are posted below.
Meet Our 2025 Candidates
Below are the responses we received from the candidates through the questionnaire we presented to them.
John Maltbie
DO YOU LIVE IN THE CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
Attorney, Director of Intellectual Property, Louis Vuitton Americas
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN/GRANDCHILDREN/FAMILY IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
HAVE YOU HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING IN A PTA OR OTHER SCHOOL COMMITTEES? YES. Lakewood PTA (2012-2018), Lakewood Elementary Scholarship Committee Reader (2012-2013), Chair (2013-2018); Felix Festa Middle School PTA (2018-2021); Felix Festa Middle School PTA Scholarship Committee Reader (2018-2021); Clarkstown High School North PTSA (2021-Present); Clarkstown High School North PTSA Title I Representative (2021-2022); Clarkstown Council PTA Scholarship Committee Interviewer (2022); Clarkstown High School North PTSA Rams Cave Volunteer (2021-Present)
HAVE YOU HAD PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION? YES. Current Member of the Clarkstown Central School District School Board (2022-Present); Adjunct Professor, Fordham School of Law (2020-Present) teaching Fashion Law Practicum; Panelist and Guest Lecturer at Harvard Law School, Fordham School of Law, Columbia University School of Law, Brooklyn Law School, New York Law School, Chicago-Kent College of Law, University of Toronto Law School, Columbia University Graduate Business School, Georgetown University, and Clarkstown North High School, among others.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR DISTRICT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS? From a macro perspective, the biggest challenge we will face over the near future relates to the CCSD's funding. From threats to funding for the purpose of scoring political points or controlling curriculum, to the diversion of public funds to fund private schools, to the very precarious position of the CCSD's largest single taxpayer, the CCSD will need to nimble and creative in order to ensure that its reputation for educational excellence will not only be maintained but augmented. Further, we unfortunately continue to see instances of intolerance among our students and we need to redouble our efforts teach empathy and respect for others so that all students feel welcome and safe in our schools. And finally, we need to continue to improve upon communication -- between the administration and staff and between the schools and parents, guardians, and students.
IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST/FOCUS BE? WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH? At the high school level, I would like to see more students get involved with internships and research opportunities so that they can apply what they learn in school to the "real world." In middle school, I would like to see greater focus on teaching empathy (particularly through literacy) and making sure that all of our students develop a love for reading. At the elementary level, I would like to continue on focusing on the fidelity and alignment of instruction so that all students experience the same level of learning regardless of the school they attend.
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY? People should support my candidacy because I have a strong belief in the necessity and value of public education, I have an abiding respect for our teachers and staff and the work that they do, and I care about other people's children just as much as I do about my own. I want the CCSD to be a place where all students feel accepted, welcomed, and safe and are also challenged to become critical thinkers by a high quality and rigorous education. I bring over 25 years of experience in advocacy as an attorney and I am a well-seasoned and pragmatic negotiator. I accept that I do not know everything but I am more than willing to learn and I believe that I have the ability to bring people together to help the CCSD become the best it can be.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? I play bass in a local band, love to read, and enjoy losing to my daughter in golf.
WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I have worked for two of the "sharks" on "Shark Tank" -- as a part-time broker's assistant for Barbara Corcoran's The Corcoran Group in college and law school and as an attorney for Daymond John's FUBU brand on trademark infringement and counterfeiting matters in the early 2000's.
WHAT ARE SOME PERSONALITY TRAITS THAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT BOARD MEMBER? I have a very even temperament and do no often get emotional or angry. I also not not to react to the first news I receive, but rather wait until I have all of the facts (and understand all perspectives) before taking a course of action. I look for solutions rather than getting bogged down in minutia and I try to maintain a sense of humor even in the face of adversity.
DO YOU LIVE IN THE CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
Attorney, Director of Intellectual Property, Louis Vuitton Americas
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN/GRANDCHILDREN/FAMILY IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
HAVE YOU HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING IN A PTA OR OTHER SCHOOL COMMITTEES? YES. Lakewood PTA (2012-2018), Lakewood Elementary Scholarship Committee Reader (2012-2013), Chair (2013-2018); Felix Festa Middle School PTA (2018-2021); Felix Festa Middle School PTA Scholarship Committee Reader (2018-2021); Clarkstown High School North PTSA (2021-Present); Clarkstown High School North PTSA Title I Representative (2021-2022); Clarkstown Council PTA Scholarship Committee Interviewer (2022); Clarkstown High School North PTSA Rams Cave Volunteer (2021-Present)
HAVE YOU HAD PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION? YES. Current Member of the Clarkstown Central School District School Board (2022-Present); Adjunct Professor, Fordham School of Law (2020-Present) teaching Fashion Law Practicum; Panelist and Guest Lecturer at Harvard Law School, Fordham School of Law, Columbia University School of Law, Brooklyn Law School, New York Law School, Chicago-Kent College of Law, University of Toronto Law School, Columbia University Graduate Business School, Georgetown University, and Clarkstown North High School, among others.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR DISTRICT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS? From a macro perspective, the biggest challenge we will face over the near future relates to the CCSD's funding. From threats to funding for the purpose of scoring political points or controlling curriculum, to the diversion of public funds to fund private schools, to the very precarious position of the CCSD's largest single taxpayer, the CCSD will need to nimble and creative in order to ensure that its reputation for educational excellence will not only be maintained but augmented. Further, we unfortunately continue to see instances of intolerance among our students and we need to redouble our efforts teach empathy and respect for others so that all students feel welcome and safe in our schools. And finally, we need to continue to improve upon communication -- between the administration and staff and between the schools and parents, guardians, and students.
IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST/FOCUS BE? WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH? At the high school level, I would like to see more students get involved with internships and research opportunities so that they can apply what they learn in school to the "real world." In middle school, I would like to see greater focus on teaching empathy (particularly through literacy) and making sure that all of our students develop a love for reading. At the elementary level, I would like to continue on focusing on the fidelity and alignment of instruction so that all students experience the same level of learning regardless of the school they attend.
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY? People should support my candidacy because I have a strong belief in the necessity and value of public education, I have an abiding respect for our teachers and staff and the work that they do, and I care about other people's children just as much as I do about my own. I want the CCSD to be a place where all students feel accepted, welcomed, and safe and are also challenged to become critical thinkers by a high quality and rigorous education. I bring over 25 years of experience in advocacy as an attorney and I am a well-seasoned and pragmatic negotiator. I accept that I do not know everything but I am more than willing to learn and I believe that I have the ability to bring people together to help the CCSD become the best it can be.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? I play bass in a local band, love to read, and enjoy losing to my daughter in golf.
WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I have worked for two of the "sharks" on "Shark Tank" -- as a part-time broker's assistant for Barbara Corcoran's The Corcoran Group in college and law school and as an attorney for Daymond John's FUBU brand on trademark infringement and counterfeiting matters in the early 2000's.
WHAT ARE SOME PERSONALITY TRAITS THAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT BOARD MEMBER? I have a very even temperament and do no often get emotional or angry. I also not not to react to the first news I receive, but rather wait until I have all of the facts (and understand all perspectives) before taking a course of action. I look for solutions rather than getting bogged down in minutia and I try to maintain a sense of humor even in the face of adversity.
Christopher Conti
DO YOU LIVE IN THE CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
Teacher at Rockland BOCES IDT
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN/GRANDCHILDREN/FAMILY IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
HAVE YOU HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING IN A PTA OR OTHER SCHOOL COMMITTEES? NO
HAVE YOU HAD PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION? Teacher 32 years; Previous BOE member ; NYSUT ELT (Education Learning Trust) 18 years
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR DISTRICT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS? Protecting girls' sports, Facilaties & The Palisades Mall
IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST/FOCUS BE? WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH?
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY? I have taught at Rockland BOCES for 32 years, helping special needs children reach their highest potential. My passion for education started in the eighth grade at Felix Festa Middle School. I knew then that being a teacher was a calling for me, and I have loved every minute being in the classroom. For the past eighteen years, I have worked for NYSUT in the ELT division, teaching professional development to educators throughout New York. During the COVID-19 epidemic, I challenged myself to write a graduate-level course. Over the next two years, I dove into the research on positive psychology and created a course on Happiness. I was, at the time, battling depression in my own life since my mother had passed away, and writing this course has helped me, along with the teachers who have taken this course, and their students. Finally, as a resident of Clarkstown since I was seven, I have entrusted CCSD with my most valuable possessions, my four children. Each of my children are different learner, and each of them has excelled due to the superior quality of the educators they have had. There are way too many educators to list here, but they helped my children grow into the responsible and respectful young adults they are. I can’t thank all of you enough! I want this tradition of excellence to continue.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? Working out, reading, & going to my kids' sporting events
WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? My wife and I were on the TV show “A Baby Story” with my first son, who is graduating from St. John’s this year.
WHAT ARE SOME PERSONALITY TRAITS THAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT BOARD MEMBER?
DO YOU LIVE IN THE CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
Teacher at Rockland BOCES IDT
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN/GRANDCHILDREN/FAMILY IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
HAVE YOU HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING IN A PTA OR OTHER SCHOOL COMMITTEES? NO
HAVE YOU HAD PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION? Teacher 32 years; Previous BOE member ; NYSUT ELT (Education Learning Trust) 18 years
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR DISTRICT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS? Protecting girls' sports, Facilaties & The Palisades Mall
IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST/FOCUS BE? WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH?
- Restoring Academic Excellence
- Protection of girls' sports
- Ensuring school safety
- Empowering parents
- Supporting mental health
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY? I have taught at Rockland BOCES for 32 years, helping special needs children reach their highest potential. My passion for education started in the eighth grade at Felix Festa Middle School. I knew then that being a teacher was a calling for me, and I have loved every minute being in the classroom. For the past eighteen years, I have worked for NYSUT in the ELT division, teaching professional development to educators throughout New York. During the COVID-19 epidemic, I challenged myself to write a graduate-level course. Over the next two years, I dove into the research on positive psychology and created a course on Happiness. I was, at the time, battling depression in my own life since my mother had passed away, and writing this course has helped me, along with the teachers who have taken this course, and their students. Finally, as a resident of Clarkstown since I was seven, I have entrusted CCSD with my most valuable possessions, my four children. Each of my children are different learner, and each of them has excelled due to the superior quality of the educators they have had. There are way too many educators to list here, but they helped my children grow into the responsible and respectful young adults they are. I can’t thank all of you enough! I want this tradition of excellence to continue.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? Working out, reading, & going to my kids' sporting events
WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? My wife and I were on the TV show “A Baby Story” with my first son, who is graduating from St. John’s this year.
WHAT ARE SOME PERSONALITY TRAITS THAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT BOARD MEMBER?
- Hard working
- Openness
- Good listener
- Reflective
Eamon Rankin
DO YOU LIVE IN THE CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
Teamster
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN/GRANDCHILDREN/FAMILY IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT? NO
HAVE YOU HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING IN A PTA OR OTHER SCHOOL COMMITTEES? NO
HAVE YOU HAD PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION? NO
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR DISTRICT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS? I feel the biggest challenges are the recruitment and retention of staff members, as well as keeping up with the latest advancements in education. We also need to evaluate future capital improvements on our facilities to ensure that there isn’t a burden in the future to taxpayers.
IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST/FOCUS BE? WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH? Restoring Academic Excellence, Protection of girls’ sports, Ensuring school safety, Supporting mental health, Increasing community engagement with the BOE
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY? As a lifelong Clarkstown resident and a graduate of our school system I am rooted in our community. I am very community minded, and I am always trying to do what is right for everyone. My passion for community started in high school at 16 years old when I joined the West Nyack Fire Department where I currently sit on the administrative board as recording secretary. It is my belief that a fresh prospective in any organization is essential or stagnation occurs. With a fresh prospective on our board of education it is my belief that we can guide Clarkstown back to the premier educational institution it once was, while preparing it for future generations to come.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? Reading, Traveling, Cooking
WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? People would be surprised to know that I enjoy learning and reading about history, especially in New York State. I always try to take a proactive approach when looking at situations and making decisions.
WHAT ARE SOME PERSONALITY TRAITS THAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT BOARD MEMBER? Hard Worker, Good listener, I communicate, I am compassionate.
DO YOU LIVE IN THE CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT?
YES
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
Teamster
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN/GRANDCHILDREN/FAMILY IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT? NO
HAVE YOU HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING IN A PTA OR OTHER SCHOOL COMMITTEES? NO
HAVE YOU HAD PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION? NO
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR DISTRICT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS? I feel the biggest challenges are the recruitment and retention of staff members, as well as keeping up with the latest advancements in education. We also need to evaluate future capital improvements on our facilities to ensure that there isn’t a burden in the future to taxpayers.
IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST/FOCUS BE? WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH? Restoring Academic Excellence, Protection of girls’ sports, Ensuring school safety, Supporting mental health, Increasing community engagement with the BOE
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY? As a lifelong Clarkstown resident and a graduate of our school system I am rooted in our community. I am very community minded, and I am always trying to do what is right for everyone. My passion for community started in high school at 16 years old when I joined the West Nyack Fire Department where I currently sit on the administrative board as recording secretary. It is my belief that a fresh prospective in any organization is essential or stagnation occurs. With a fresh prospective on our board of education it is my belief that we can guide Clarkstown back to the premier educational institution it once was, while preparing it for future generations to come.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? Reading, Traveling, Cooking
WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? People would be surprised to know that I enjoy learning and reading about history, especially in New York State. I always try to take a proactive approach when looking at situations and making decisions.
WHAT ARE SOME PERSONALITY TRAITS THAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT BOARD MEMBER? Hard Worker, Good listener, I communicate, I am compassionate.
