LIVERMORE – Rod Newman and Betty Wilson are seeking election to a three-year SAD 36 director’s seat.

The vote will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, at the Livermore Town Office. Other candidates for town and school elections are unopposed.

Newman, already on the SAD 36 board, said, “The biggest issue facing SAD 36 is the need to preserve and try to expand program, while being financially responsible to our taxpayers.

“We need to find creative ways to finance these programs,” Newman said. “We have developed the Best Bid Program that provides savings and income for our district.”

Wilson said, “The biggest challenge for (SAD 36) and all school districts in the state is consolidation and the reduction in funding to education due to the state’s budgetary cuts. This will be a challenge for the next several years, all districts are having to be creative in finding revenue and stretching the dollar we have without effecting our students’ education.”

Wilson said this is not just an SAD 36 issue but an issue that stretches to “our towns and communities. I think we need to look at what is in our budget and make sure we are running as efficiently as possible,” Wilson said. “I believe the current board and superintendent are looking at these issues, but sometimes a different view can make the difference. I really think seeing how another district handles issues of consolidation can also be an asset.”

Another issue, Newman said, is the student dropout rate at Livermore Falls High School.

He believes that can be addressed with the expansion of program, such as the (Associated Builders and Contractors Inc.) Last year, the Ranor plumbing program was established and there are plans to start a new electrical program for students, Newman said.

“To address this issue, there is a need for more space,” he said. “We need to find a way to replace the middle school and high school, without placing the burden on our local taxpayers.”

Newman said his experience of being on the board for several years has given him a good understanding of what it takes to run a school district.

“I believe when people are provided with clear and honest facts, they will make good choices,” Newman said.

“Armed with that knowledge, one person can make a difference. My experience of 30 years in self-employment has taught me the importance and value of a good education.”

Her experience, Wilson said, dealing with school budgets and payroll will assist in understanding the budgetary process.

“This will assist me in making the most informed decisions for our district and most importantly for our children. I feel it is very important to look at how these budget decisions are going to effect our children not just now but years down the road,” Wilson said. “Another very important skill I bring is the ability to compromise and find a middle ground that will be best for our students. I think the current board is very student focused, and I feel it is very important we continue the focus on our students and be sure any budgetary issues do not negatively effect them. I also feel my ability in my day job to stay current concerning what is going with consolidation will be an asset to the district.”