Meet the District 24 board candidates

Tony Iadevaio

It was the closing of the Franklin Avenue Elementary School in 1980 that prompted current District 24 board member Tony Iadevaio to get involved in school politics. Thirty years later, he still finds himself immersed in securing the best possible education for the children of Valley Stream. He is running unopposed for his 11th consecutive term on the board.

“I’m still enjoying myself,” said Iadevaio, 71, also a high school board trustee. “I still have the drive to continue to give the kids of Valley Stream a quality education. I can provide continuity and expertise to the board.”

Iadevaio said he feels honored that the community gave him so many opportunities to serve their children, and since he’s lived in the community for almost 50 years, he always keeps local taxpayers in mind. “I’m a taxpayer too,” he said. “I work with the board to put together the best budget.”

The biggest issue for Iadevaio, he said, is increasing student test scores on state standardized tests. He wants to have more students achieve the mastery level, he said. Iadevaio noted that he’s also been looking into finding alternate funding for education. He explained that he would like to see an income tax implemented on Long Island to ease the burden on homeowners.

Iadevaio added that he brings a multitude of experience to the board, as well as consistency. “We all look for what’s best for kids,” he said. “None of us have our own agendas.” He described the board as a family, and he loves getting input from the community when it comes to making decisions that affect children.

“I’m a great listener,” he said. “I put my ear to the stone and bring it back to the board. School board service is one of the most fulfilling things I’ve done in my life. The fact that I can impact thousands of children is priceless to me.”