Portsmouth School Board Candidates Speak Out

There are six candidates for five School Board seats in the Nov. 5. election.

The candidates on Tuesday attended a forum hosted by Citizens for Voter Education. Below are excerpts from the candidates' speeches:

Nancy Novelline Clayburgh
"Delivering a fair and responsible budget for our schools is our No. 1 priority ... Our teachers must continue to be fairly compensated."

Gary Epler
"The transformation of the middle school is something we should be proud of. It's a beacon for the community."

Jeffrey Landry
"One cookie-cutter program doesn't meet (students') needs."

Thomas Martin (incumbent)
"Developing a pre-kindergarten program will … allow parents to give their kids a jump-start on education."

Lennie Mullaney
"Common Core does not limit a student's advancement or take away local control."

Leslie Stevens (incumbent)
"In general our students are excelling and doing very well ... One thing our schools do is find a place for every student."

In addition to the School Board race, all nine City Council seats are up for grabs. Get up to speed with our voter guide.