Five Vying for Vacated Trustee Seat [UPDATED]

Six residents applied for the Board of Education term that was vacated earlier this year by former trustee Robyn Kingston.

Catherine Kazan, Rogger Ortiz, Matthew Giordano, Robert Pignatello, Jacqueline Pisatowski, and Lisa Spatola initally applied for the position. Giordano submitted a resignation letter to the board last week.

Kingston resigned from her term in January. 

“It just seems like an opportunity that goes along with everything that we’re involved in,” said Ortiz. “I feel like I should be a part of the narrative. I want to make a bigger impact.”

Ortiz and his wife own Christina by Design salon. His sons attend George Washington Middle School and Randall Carter Elementary School. He coaches soccer at the Boys and Girls Club of Wayne.

“I think that my experiences would help direct the school system,” Ortiz said.

Pisatowski is alumna of Wayne Valley High School.

“I feel like I want to contribute something back to the system. I want to give something back,” Pisatowski said. “Giving our children a good education is the most important thing we can do for them.”

Pignatello has lived in Wayne for 18 years. He has an extensive background in higher education. She is senior vice president for finance and administration at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City. 

"Our education system is not the place for political influence or interference," Pignatello said. "I like to ask questions and challenge assumptions. I believe in strategic planning and resource allocation and assessment. I look for accountability and results." 

Kazan ran for a term on the board this year .

“I haven’t changed my mind. I still would like to be a board member,” Kazan said. “I still believe we need true representation of the people who make up our community. I still feel the need to serve.”

Giordano submitted a resignation letter to the board last week.

Spatola did not return messages seeking comment.

The board is expected to appoint someone to the position this month. That person will have the option of running for a one-year unexpired term in November and for a full three-year term in 2014. 

— Have a question or news tip? Contact editor Daniel Hubbard at Daniel.Hubbard@patch.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For news straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.