There are two (2) candidates running to fill two (2) three (3)-year term seats at-large. The candidates will appear on the ballot in the following order:
1. Katrina Bratge
2. John Acee
Katrina Bratge
I’m seeking re-election to the Westmoreland Central School District Board of Education to offer my energy and experience, coupled with my appreciation of fiscal responsibility, to give back to the district for the many academic and extracurricular opportunities provided to my family over the past 15 years. 
All three of my children began their Westmoreland school experience in kindergarten and feel blessed with all that they gained from this small, yet dynamic school district. Some of you may know my twins, Kirstin and Karsten (2019 graduates), and Johann, currently in 11th grade, from the many activities the district offers. I have witnessed the benefits they experienced from being a part of marching band and everything music related, to drama, winter guard, x-country, track & field, indoor track and soccer. Despite COVID’s impact on the sports schedule this year, Johann was able to increase his varsity sports participation by playing both soccer (fall) and football (spring), as well as volleyball and baseball. Not only have my children had a positive experience, but so have the many exchange students we have hosted over the years: Moritz (Germany), Changseong (South Korea), “Aggie” (Australia/Nepal), Daniel (Germany), Klara (Germany), Francesco (Italy) and Anushervon (Tajikistan). Each cherished their year at Westmoreland and continue to share fond memories of our small community – learning there is far more to New York than New York City.
As an educator for more than 30 years, my experiences as a school counselor, assistant principal, district director of curriculum and college professor for educational leadership have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the myriad of rewards and challenges that are unique to school districts. I have managed nearly $5 million in district title funding, written and been awarded a variety of educational grants, taught school law and special education law to aspiring future principals and provided NYS mandated DASA instruction (anti-bullying) to new teachers and administrators.
I believe that children are our greatest resource and that our school district should be responsive to their needs. As a board member, I feel it is vital to foster open communication and collaboration with families as well as the entire Westmoreland school community. Please get out to vote for the school budget on Tuesday, May 18, and I hope to earn your support as well!
John Acee
I am a 1984 graduate of the Westmoreland Central Schools. My wife Karen and I chose to raise our two children here because of the many advantages both our school district and the Westmoreland community offer. I have served on the Board of Education since 2002 as both member and president. 
As the COVID-19 Pandemic has turned many lives upside down over the past year, our school district and community has banded together to keep our kids learning and our teachers teaching. During the early days of the Pandemic, while other schools around New York State struggled to provide meaningful remote instruction, our district was ready from the very beginning with a 1:1 student-to-learning device ratio, teachers who were already trained on the necessary technology for remote instruction and an administration that listened to and regularly communicated with parents, teachers and students.
Through difficult times such as these, our school remains focused on providing a safe and nurturing learning environment. And, as the Pandemic winds down and full in person instruction is restored, we must turn our attention back toward ensuring that we are providing our children with the best educational opportunities possible. In doing so, however, we must work within our means and utilize our resources as efficiently and effectively as possible. I believe that both my prior experience as a Board member and my years of business experience enable me to effectively represent the community on the Board of Education. It would be an honor and privilege to continue to serve and build upon the good work currently being done. I am asking for your vote and support on May 18!