The Introduction: Why I’m Running

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I am running for the Board of Education this November. I want to introduce myself and share my commitment to New Hartford's students and schools.

My wife, Kate Humphrey—who grew up in New Hartford and whose father is a respected local veterinarian—and I are raising our daughter, a first grader being taught by New Hartford's dedicated, long-tenured teachers and paraprofessionals, and we are deeply invested in our Town's future.

Why Me: Proven Leadership and Commitment

I am not just asking for your vote; I am committed to showing up for this position every day. My dedication to New Hartford is proven by my actions:

• Strategic & Financial Leadership: My 20 years of leadership in healthcare proves my ability to improve efficiency and responsibly manage resources. This experience was essential when I was heavily involved in the successful revision of this past year's school budget.

• Active Engagement: I actively attend every Board of Education meeting, and I have volunteered to help the Joint Task Force to help shape the future of education in New Hartford. As a youth soccer coach and a school volunteer with the PTO, I see firsthand the needs of the Town’s children, students, and teachers. My dedication extends beyond the schools: I regularly attend Town meetings, research issues, analyze budgets, and engage with community members to understand and be involved with the Town as a whole.

• Non-Partisan Focus: As an Unaffiliated candidate, I will keep decisions focused on using our tax dollars effectively and on what’s best for students and taxpayers—not politics. My goal is to bring balanced, collaborative thinking to every discussion, ensuring that our schools remain strong and our community well-served.

My Platform: What I Will Do

If elected, my work will be driven by three clear priorities:

• Strong Academics & School Environment: I will work to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and ready to learn. This means defending high-quality instruction and maintaining a positive school environment for all our children.

• Fiscal Responsibility & Accountability: I will bring transparency to the budget process. Every dollar of your tax money must be a smart investment that strengthens our schools and our entire town.

• The Future of Our Schools & Town: I am committed to leading a data-driven process on school facilities. We must explore creative financial solutions—like leveraging grant funding and expiring town bonds—to find the right, long-term plan that enhances education, maintains class sizes, and delivers fiscal stability.

My commitment to New Hartford is also defined by my approach to this position. To see the principles that drive my three priorities—including my focus on educator support and collaboration across Town boards—I invite you to explore the full details of my platform on this page.

I look forward to meeting you and hearing your perspective. At any time, you can reach me via the form below.

Please consider voting for me on Tuesday, November 4.

Jon “Coach Jon” Puz