Gerald Feissner runs for Hazleton Area School Board

May 12—Gerald Feissner retired after 35 years as a district judge but ran for Hazleton Area School Board because he wants to stay active in the community.

"Bottom line is this: I'm totally committed if I win as a school director to function at all meetings no matter how much time it takes," Feissner said. "Being a judge, I'm probably a perfectionist so (with) my presence, my opinions, my fairness, I'll analyze things to make sure we do the right thing" for students, teachers and parents.

Feissner, who now lives in Butler Twp., held court and resided for many years in Freeland, which he doesn't think has had a representative on the board since Ted Hollick finished his term in 1987.

He is campaigning with three other candidates, Linda DeCosmo, Ed Shemansky and Anthony Ryba.

This year, up to 80 teachers, plus principals, might retire before the new board members are elected, but Feissner said the ramifications of replacing them might carry over to the next board.

"We're going to lose a lot of experience," he said, adding the board members have to "make sure we're diversified in our thinking and applications and able to fill jobs for the most qualified people, no matter what their backgrounds."

For students who may have fallen behind while studying from home for much of the year, Feissner supports safety features to help them study in classrooms. Also he would "try to improve their path for a better education, whatever we have to do to help these students get back in the groove."

"The time I'm willing to give is going to be needed for them to make up the time."

Federal pandemic relief funds that Hazleton Area will receive might help students rebound.

Feissner would use funds "where it's necessary for these students to catch up no matter what it takes."

"Taxes," he added, "may be an issue. Maybe we can help the taxpayers."

Contact the writer: kjackson@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3587