2 File to Run for Strongsville School Board -- So Far

Two people -- an incumbent and a newcomer -- are seeking seats on the Strongsville Board of Education this November.

Jennifer Sinisgalli, who is finishing her 10th year on the board, has filed to run for another four-year term.

And Geogre Grozan, a business owner who serves on the district's Facilities Task Force, is making his first bid for public office.

Also up for election is the seat held by board President Dave Frazee, who has not yet said whether he will seek another term.

Frazee could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.

Deadline to file to run for the board is Aug. 7. 

Sinisgalli said she is seeking a third full term because she believes the board needs stability and someone with experience, especially in the wake of the eight-week teachers strike this spring.

"I want someone to remain on the board who's experienced," she said. "It takes a long to to understand how school districts work." 

Grozan, who was part of the committee that drafted the plan for the district's new middle school, said his two young children were part of the impetus to run.

"I also want to finish what I started on the Facilities Task Force," he said. "More focus needs to be put on our buildings, our grounds, and where we're spending our money."

Both candidates said their primary goal is to move the district past the emotional and divisive strike. 

"The strike's over. Let's get on with it," Grozan said. "We need to focus back on the kids, back on excellence."

Sinisgalli said the schools have "accomplished so much in the last 10 years.

"I love the district," she said. "I want to see us get back on the path of focusing on our mission."

Grozan added that he's willing to take on the duties, partly to help shape the district his children -- one 3 and one entering second grade -- will attend.

"This is my way of giving back," he said. "If I can help, that's what I want to do."