Editor’s note: This candidate statement was provided by Dr. Michael Owen-Michaane.

As your School Board Member, I promise to always work Respectfully and Collaboratively with Teachers and the Teachers Union.

I will be forever grateful to the Teachers, Custodians, Principals, Staff, and Administrators of the Pelham Schools for everything they did to Support and Educate all of our children during the last year. My son’s teachers showed incredible Dedication and Love. Thank you!

I have the highest Respect for Teachers. Both of my parents are retired Public School Teachers.

I was so happy to read the recent New York Times article (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/13/us/reopening-schools-teachers-union.html) reporting that Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, called for a full reopening of schools. She said, “There is no doubt: Schools must be open. In person. Five days a week.”

Parents and Teachers are United in wanting what’s best for our children.

I have heard from many Pelham Teachers who are so happy to be spending more time with their students in person. Many Pelham Teachers have sent me kind words of encouragement. I respect the Professionalism of these Teachers in not wanting to speak publicly during this Board of Education Election.

As your Board Member, I promise that the Safety of every Teacher, Staff Member, and Student will be my highest priority. I understand as a physician, that individual health circumstances may require accommodations. Appropriate accommodations must be made for people with high risk medical conditions as directed by their physician.

I have worked Collaboratively and Respectfully with Union Colleagues in healthcare for many years. In fact, I was a member of a Union in the past, the Committee of Interns and Residents, part of SEIU Healthcare.

Again, I respect Teachers and support their right for representation by the Teachers Union. I will always work collaboratively and respectfully with Teachers and the Teachers Union. I have a thick skin, and welcome constructive criticism and feedback.

Thank you again to the Teachers of Pelham!