Why I Support Universal Free Meals for Briarcliff

As a candidate for the Board of Education, I often get asked about my priorities. While my background is in mathematics and capital markets, my philosophy on school governance is simple: We should invest in programs that deliver high returns for our students and our taxpayers.

Universal Free School Meals is exactly that kind of program.

For too long, this conversation has been sidelined or viewed as a "nice to have." But the data (and the community) tell a different story. Here is why I am fiercely advocating for Briarcliff Manor to join the Universal Free Meals program, and why over 370 of your neighbors have already signed a petition agreeing with me.

1. It's Fiscally Responsible

As a taxpayer, you are already funding this program. The Universal Free Meals initiative is supported by state and federal tax dollars. When Briarcliff opts out, we aren't saving money; we are simply leaving our own tax dollars on the table for other districts to use.

By joining the program, we bring those funds back into our district. This allows us to upgrade our food service capabilities and provide high-quality nutrition to our students without raising local taxes. It is a classic case of fiscal efficiency: maximizing the value of the revenue we already generate.

2. It Fuels Academic Success

Research consistently shows that access to healthy, consistent meals improves focus, attendance, and test scores. By ensuring that every student, from Kindergarten at Todd to seniors at the High School, has access to a nutritious breakfast and lunch, we are removing a silent barrier to academic excellence.

3. It Removes Stigma

When meals are free for everyone, the cafeteria becomes a place of community, not classification. This simple shift builds a more inclusive school culture and ensures that no family falls through the cracks.

The Community Has Spoken

I am not alone in this view. In just a few weeks, more than 370 Briarcliff residents have signed a petition urging the District to adopt this program.

This is not a fringe issue; it is a mandate from parents who want their school district to be as modern, efficient, and supportive as possible.

Join the Movement

The Food Service Working Group is currently reviewing the feasibility of a rollout (targeting September 2026). While I applaud the due diligence, I believe we must keep the pressure on to ensure this happens comprehensively for all schools, not just one.

If you agree that Briarcliff District should join the program, please add your name to our growing list of supporters.

Let's bring our tax dollars home and fuel our students for the future.