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School Board Candidates

Three candidates are running for one open seat on the school board. The term is five years.

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Matthew Herbert

Candidate Statement: My wife and I moved to Geneva a little over 10 years ago and have been excited to call this city our chosen home. Our daughter joined the GCSD Community as a Kindergartener this past Fall. I have been able to see firsthand the amazing teachers and staff that we have in this community. In addition, as a professional in the construction industry, and the son of a teacher, I believe I can bring a unique combination of real-world hands-on-experience and knowledge of educational systems. I work on schools and public infrastructure, and I understand the importance of smart, sustainable planning that supports students now and in the future. I’m running because I believe in equitable, inclusive education that uplifts every student—regardless of race, income, identity, or ability. Our schools should be fully funded, our educators supported, and our facilities safe and modern. I also believe in transparency, community involvement, and policies that reflect the diverse needs of our district.

Years of Residency in the District: 11

High School: Cortland City Schools Class of 2009

Higher Education: State University of New York College of Environmental Science & Forestry, Bachelor's in Landscape Architecture (2015)

Current Employment: Project Manager at LeChase Construction (10 years)

Board Service: Geneva City School District Board of Education (one year)

Steve Budgar

Candidate Statement: A lifelong Geneva resident, I am deeply invested in the success of this community and its students. My wife is a GCSD employee, one of my children is a Geneva High School alumnus, and another graduates this June — giving me a personal stake in the decisions this board makes every day. Coaching football in this community has given me a front-row seat to what our kids are capable of — and what they need to thrive. Now I am ready to take that commitment further and advocate for Geneva's students in a new arena.

Community roots

  • Lifelong Geneva resident
  • Community football coach
  • Parent of two GCSD students

Professional experience

  • Nearly 25 years in higher education
  • Expertise in student development, institutional strategy, and program leadership

The skills I have built over a career in higher education — strategic thinking, collaboration, data-informed decision-making, and a commitment to student success — translate directly to the work of a school board. Combined with the leadership and accountability I have modeled on the sidelines, I am prepared to serve Geneva's students, families, and educators with the dedication they deserve.

Years of Residency in the District: 47

High School: Geneva City Schools Class of 1996

Higher Education: Finger Lakes Community College, Associate's in Business Administration (2000); State University of New York at Brockport, Bachelor's in Business Administration (2002); Nazareth College, Master's in Management (2007)

Current Employment: Director of Admissions & Enrollment at Syracuse University College of Law (eight years)

Community Service: Various positions, including Coach/Admin with Geneva Junior Panthers Football (five years); Various positions, including Modified Head Coach, Varsity Assistant at Geneva Football (four years)

Melissa Green

Candidate Statement: I am interested in serving on the school board because I feel I have a responsibility as a resident of this community to help make the necessary improvements within our schools and our community. I have a great relationship with all age groups, genders, and nationalities within our community and have knowledge of concerns and areas of improvements within each grade. I'm interested because I have a lot of ideas to share that could help with improvements to our schools and community. I'm interested because I would like to learn more about the school budget so I can assist with ideas to put our money in areas that really need attention. I want to be a part of a change, a change that would leave a lasting impact on our community and schools.

Years of Residency in the District: 33

High School: Geneva City Schools Class of 1996

Higher Education: Finger Lakes Community College, Associate's in Business Management (2000)

Current Employment: Direct Service Aide at Finger Lakes Developmental Disabilities Services Office  (15 years)

Previous Employment: Youth Advocate at the Ontario County Youth Advocacy Program (seven years)

Community Service: Volunteer coach at Geneva Junior Panthers Cheer (five years); Volunteer coach at Geneva Community Center Basketball (four years); Hospitality member at Abundant Grace Pentecostal Church (one year)

Family: Two children currently at Geneva City Schools; three children who previously attended Geneva City Schools