Squicquero, Moore clear choices for Canfield BOE

If a public school system is to be judged on how its students perform on the state proficiency tests, then Canfield is doing exceptionally well.
And if it is to be judged on how many of its high school graduates go on to college and actually earn degrees, the evidence shows that the school district ranks among the best, not only in the Mahoning Valley but in the state of Ohio.
Finally, if the financial strength of a district is important because of all the academic frills that can be added to a student's learning experience, then Canfield can certainly take pride in what it has accomplished.
Which all leads to the question: If you're running for a seat on the board of education and you aren't an incumbent, what issues would you focus on?
Such is the dilemma being faced by Lynne Bellish, Bruce E. Brocker, John E. Davis, Nicholas Maiorana, Robert C. McClusky, David J. Moore and Sam Pitzulo. These seven are the challengers for the three seats on the Canfield Board of Education in the Nov. 6 general election.
The remaining candidate on the ballot is an incumbent, Dr. Mark J. Squicquero, who has been on the board since 1994. The Vindicator enthusiastically endorses Squicquero's re-election. In doing so, we adopt a line we used four years ago when we supported him for a second term: "Don't mess with success." Two other incumbents whose terms are up this year, Anne Davis and Patricia Hura, have chosen not to run again, thus throwing the contest for the two seats wide open.
Academic standards: Squicquero can point to numerous accomplishments during his tenure on the board, but as the only member running this year, he certainly can take credit for success of the school district. By any measure, Canfield remains one of the best educational systems in the state. Not only are its academic standards high, its technology program reflects an understanding of what skills and knowledge are required to succeed in the global economy. Its extracurricular activities show a commitment on the part of the administration, teachers and the school board to make learning fun.
Of the other candidates in next month's race, we believe one stands out from the pack: David J. Moore, a metallurgical systems engineer with WCI Steel in Warren, but more important, a Canfield resident who has demonstrated a deep commitment to the school system and its children.
We're also greatly impressed by Moore's willingness to ignore the boundaries that separate the communities in the Mahoning Valley and to offer a helping hand where it is needed.
His participation in the OHIO READS program that brings him into contact with kindergarten students in the Warren city schools is noteworthy, as is his work with the Mahoning County Council for Retarded Citizens.
As for his involvement with the Canfield School District, his is a familiar face not only at the board meetings, but in various volunteer groups.
Communication: Moore is of the opinion that the lines of communication between the school board and the residents should be more open and that closed-door sessions should be kept to a minimum.
He would work to establish a planning committee that would focus on the short- and long-term needs and goals of the district.
"This pro-active group could be formulating plans for an all-day kindergarten option and exploring classroom space issues, teacher availability and funding," he wrote in the questionnaire sent to him by The Vindicator.
We make no endorsement for the third seat that is on the ballot.