Community Members Quiz Harrisburg School Board Candidates On Teacher Retention, Student Success

As Harrisburg School District emerges from financial distress, school board incumbents and hopefuls say they're focusing on establishing stability and strengthening community partnerships that promote the success of students. Three candidates for Harrisburg School Board appeared at a forum sponsored by K.I.N.G.S, the new Keeping Innercity Neighborhoods Great and Safe organization of African-American men formed to create opportunities for youth. The forum, held at Camp Curtin YMCA on Saturday, attracted about 20 audience members who engaged in a spirited discussion on topics including teacher recruitment and retention, classroom control, and student success. Candidates attending were incumbents Jennifer Smallwood, the board president seeking a four-year term, and LaTasha Frye, seeking a two-year term.