There are several different reasons why a person decides to divide his or her time and take on the position as a school board member. Some have children going through the system and they want to make their District a better place for them. Others have lived in their community their entire lives and always continue to be part of their community, even when their children have moved on. Still others cannot help but feel at home knowing exactly where their tax money is going.

Farmingdale School District is known as a very community-oriented district, with a strong connection between administrators and parents. On May 16, residents will have the opportunity to vote on the proposed budget and elect members to the board. There are three unopposed seats up for election.

Anthony Vitale, the current president of the school board is up for election, as well as a board member and long-time resident.

Dr. Phillip Annapuro, who has been in the district since 1956 and is the former assistant to the superintendent of schools said that he thanks the community for coming forward year after year to support the district and pass the budget. Both of his children are graduates of the Farmingdale district.

Annapuro, a member of the Airport Commissioners, speaks highly of receiving the Friend to Education award by the NYS teacher's union. He was also recognized by the Town of Oyster Bay in 1992 and Nassau County in 1996 for his service to the community. He is very involved with the Board of Education, as head of the Lobby Committee. He has asked legislators for a change in the state-aid formula and more equitable funding for low-wealth high taxed districts.

"I think the budget is one of the lowest percentage increases surrounding our district. across the county," he said. "I fully support it."

Robert Guarino, Jr., another incumbent, has been a board member for three years.

"My daughter is my inspiration," he said. " I enjoy working on the board and attempting to maintain quality education in Farmingdale."

Guarino said that things can always be improved and that his job is to make sure programs are meeting the needs of students and that they are designed to make certain children succeed.

"There is always a chance to do a little better in some areas," he said, We have to make certain that we give administrators the resources they need to get the job done."

"So far I am very pleased with the support from the community, I hope that support continues, and we can do our best to not let them down."

Also up for vote on May 16 is the proposed 2000-2001 Farmingdale School Budget. The proposed plan recommends spending $860,982,470, an 8.26 increase over the 1999-2000 budget of $840,349,228.