School board race 2025

There are two (2) Board of Education seats up for election, and two incumbents running uncontested for those openings. The terms are for three (3) years, 2025-2028, and the candidates are Leah Brown and Megan Sarkis.

Each year, individual profile information is submitted for voter consideration, and those appear below.

Leah Brown
Leah Brown

Occupation: Academic Administrator, PhD program, University of Rochester

Family: Scott Nuernberger, husband; two children, Gretel and Ani Nuernberger

Community Service:


Board of Education member (past 4 years), actively serving on several district committees, including the District Leadership Team, Budget Focus, Audit Committee, Safety Committee, Policy Committee, and Code of Conduct Committee.

Elected Member of the Genesee Staff Council at the University of Rochester (2023–2024). Member of the Diversity and Inclusion Group, Graduate Program UofR

Why serve on the Board of Education?


I've served on the school board for the past four years because I care deeply about public education and want to support the students and staff in my community. It has been a meaningful way to help shape decisions that promote student success, well-being, and a strong sense of belonging for everyone in our district.

Through this work, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the leadership and collaboration it takes to keep a district running effectively and responsively. Most of all, I’ve seen how one voice or one idea can bring a new perspective and help change a room. I would be honored to continue serving and representing a community that values that kind of impact.

What are the top issues facing our schools?


In a time when conflicting beliefs, from state and national debates to conversations around our own dinner tables, can create division, we must remain focused on our responsibility to every student.

Our top priority is fostering their academic, social, and emotional growth while remaining mindful of the financial impact on our community. This requires making thoughtful and sustainable decisions that support both students and staff. It involves hiring and retaining highly qualified personnel in every role, maintaining safe and welcoming schools, preparing students for life after graduation through strong foundational skills, advanced coursework, and real-world learning experiences, and improving facilities to ensure effective environments for teaching and learning.

What would you like people to know about you?


I’ve often heard in the community that decisions are already made before they reach the Board, but that hasn’t been my experience. I don’t come to the Board with a specific project or personal agenda, and I don’t arrive with my mind made up. I care deeply about all aspects of our schools and believe in the importance of showing up, whether that’s at a varsity game, a musical performance, an elementary school social, or a policy meeting. I’m just as comfortable discussing board governance and budget priorities as I am cheering on students, because every part of the school experience matters.

Megan SarkisMegan Sarkis

Occupation: Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions, SUNY Brockport

Family: Lee, husband (SHS Class of 1997); children, Joey (12th grade) and Eliza (7th grade)

Community Service:


Board of Education member (last 3 years), past President of Taylor Elementary Parent Teacher Organization; member (current and past) of the following district committees: Budget Focus Group, Professional Learning Committee, Grading Task Force, School Start Times Committee, Wellness Committee, School-to-Career Advisory Committee, School Counseling Advisory Council, and Ad Hoc Homework Committee.

Have also served on the search committees for the following positions: Superintendent, Terry Taylor Principal, High School Principal, Athletic Director, Cosgrove Assistant Principal and High School Assistant Principal.

Why serve on the Board of Education?


Serving on the Board of Education has been both a rewarding and eye-opening experience. During my first term, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our district, and that experience has only strengthened my commitment to the students we serve, as well as the dedicated faculty and staff who support them every day.

As a fierce supporter of public education, I believe strongly in the power of schools to transform lives and communities. My professional background in college and career readiness brings a unique and valuable perspective to the board, supporting the district’s goal that all students are prepared for success beyond graduation.

I’m proud to be a committed public servant who values open-mindedness and collaboration. It’s an honor to represent the diverse values and needs of our learning community, and I’m eager to continue working toward a forward-thinking educational environment for every student.

What are the top issues facing our schools?


In 2025, New York public school districts face several critical challenges that will directly impact our students and communities.

One of the most pressing is potential changes in federal education policy and funding, which would force districts to navigate how to best support all students, particularly in expanding access to mental health services and ensuring inclusive support for students with disabilities.

Additionally, the state mandate for zero-emission school buses reflects a positive step toward sustainability—but the steep cost and new infrastructure necessary to implement this mandate creates real challenges for districts already managing tight budgets.

What would you like people to know about you?


I’ve worked in the SUNY system since 2003, with a focus on supporting high school students in their college and career journeys. My family moved to the Spencerport district in 2009 specifically because of the strong reputation of the schools, and I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact this district has had on my own children.

Serving on the Board of Education has been a meaningful way for me to give back to a community that has given so much to my family. I want people to know that I’m deeply committed to public education, to thoughtful leadership, and to continuing the important work of supporting all students, families, and staff in our district. I bring both professional expertise and a parent’s perspective, and I care deeply about the future of our schools.