One new trustee on Board of Education

Melissa Tell defeated nine-year incumbent Melissa Tell by 32 votes. Brian O'Flaherty staved off challenger Adam Sackowitz to earn another three-year term.

Residents elected a new trustee to the Board of Education last week, as challenger Melissa Tell defeated nine-year incumbent Walter Skinner, by just 32 votes, 2,608 to 2,576.

“The real winners of this election are the kids and people of this community,” said Tell. “Thank you to everyone for your support. I look forward to assisting with a parent perspective on the Board of Education. It’s time for East Meadow to shine brighter.”

In another tight race, Brian O’Flaherty, who has been on the board since 2003, staved off challenger Adam Sackowitz, 2,752 votes to 2,470, to retain his seat.

“In the time where many incumbents were defeated across Long Island, I am thankful to the community for having the confidence in me to do what is best for the children and taxpayers,” O’Flaherty said. “I’m excited about the tasks the board has in front of us.

“Although Mr. Skinner won’t be returning to the board,” O’Flaherty continued, “I look forward to working with Ms. Tell, especially listening to her goals and ideas for the district. The board has a full agenda coming up, and I am confident we will get these tasks done.”