My name is Katie Ginalski. My family has lived in the district since 2013, and I’m excited to announce that I’m running for one of two open positions with the Chenango Forks Central School District Board of Education.
I have worked in public education for over 20 years and I currently work at Greene Central School as a science teacher. Chenango Forks has a reputation as a great place to raise a family and there are many reasons why so many graduates choose to raise their families in this community. I can attest to that as a proud alumna of the Class of 1997. After graduating from Chenango Forks I earned my Bachelors of Science in chemistry with a biology minor from Le Moyne College, where I was also a member of the swim team. Additionally, I earned my Masters of Arts in Teaching from Binghamton University. I have two children, Anna and Ian, who currently attend Chenango Forks high school.
My family has been active in the community since my parents coached a civic softball team in the 1980s. My husband, Jason, and I knew it was our turn once our kids were old enough to participate in Chenango Forks Civic Association sports, where Jason ran the baseball program and acted as a coach for several years. I have been the treasurer of Chenango Forks softball boosters since 2021 and the treasurer of Chenango Forks girls’ soccer boosters since 2022. My experience as treasurer of these clubs has enhanced my knowledge of working with fiscally responsible groups to support student programs. My family has also volunteered in a variety of ways outside of the school district, including through our parish of St. Francis of Assisi.
While the thought of running for the school board has been with me for several years, the time now feels right. I am running at this time as one of the vacancies will be a position that was held by a retired teacher. It is important to me that there is representation on the board from someone who works in public education and who believes that the best way to support our students is by supporting those who work in public education. The value that I place on public education is further supported by my involvement with the Upward Bound program since 2002. I am the founder of the Nick Spawn Memorial Upward Bound scholarship which is available to first generation college bound students who have been part of the program.
My actions always have and always will support the best interest of the community. I would not take lightly the opportunity to make decisions alongside other board members and the superintendent. It is my top priority to provide continued support for funding of student programs which make Chenango Forks a great place to receive an education, as well as the great community in which we live.