Ten candidates are competing for seats on Whitehall-Coplay School Board in the May 18 primary election. Voters can choose only four.

The candidates were asked the following question.

What sets you apart from the others?

Efforts to reach Democrat Karen Glover were unsuccessful.

The responses from the other candidates, all of whom have cross-filed on both the Democratic and Republican ballots, are listed below.

ANTOINETTE M. GUEDES

Together we are in this for our students, staff/teachers and community; our differences will drive the future board into a more productive and effective team. I may not be the most polished, educated or prominent candidate, but when the time comes to put in the work. I put my all into it. I fight for what I believe in, even when it’s not the popular opinion. I take the time to understand, listen and evaluate, before making decisions. I respect the views and needs of others and strive to learn from our differences.

ALLISON SCHULTZ

As a lifelong Whitehall resident, I am incredibly invested in our community. As the mother of two children, I recognize that our children are our most valuable members and believe unreservedly that they should have the opportunity to be back in the classroom full time. As a practicing healthcare provider since 2003 (including over 15 years as a psychiatric practitioner), I will bring clinical knowledge, the ability to interpret important medical literature as it pertains to the ongoing pandemic, insight into the emotional needs of our students and the ability to remain calm and focused in difficult situations and discussions.

ELIZABETH N. FOX

I come from a diverse background. I am a first-generation American on my mother’s side. I am half Korean and half Irish. I am a daughter of a Vietnam vet, 1968-69. My first language was Korean. I’ve always gone the extra mile to connect with people I don’t know. I have formed relationships with people of diverse backgrounds. I’m an advocate for students and parents who do not have a voice for themselves on the autism spectrum. I am optimistic. I have weathered some challenging times. I’ve always been willing to put other people before me.

LORIANN FEHNEL

For me, I would have to say I wear my heart on my sleeve. Having this characteristic allows me to resonate with the students, parents/guardians and employees who face hardships in our school district, whether it be in school or at home. This characteristic about me allows me to be transparent, honest and understanding with the community. I support the Black Lives Matter movement with no violence. I am an ally to the LGBTQ community. I strongly believe in preventing tax hikes on struggling families. I also believe health, safety and security remain a top priority.

GEORGE E. WILLIAMS

My experience, genuine concern for our kids, financial stewardship and recognition of the need for equity are assets that I have brought - and will continue to bring - in representing our community on the Whitehall-Coplay School Board. We need to stabilize our district, flourish under the leadership of a new superintendent, get back to our core values as a board and govern for our district. I am proud to be a current member of the board, and I look forward to continuing to support the safest and most educationally fulfilling environment for our children while considering input from all stakeholders.

FADY SALLOUM

I am a professional real estate agent for the past 17 years and currently employed by RE/MAX real estate. I am married to Kinda Salloum, a paraprofessional with the Allentown School District, and together, we have three children - Julian (fourth grade), Christian (second grade) and Natalie (first grade). In my free time, I volunteer for various community organizations, including coaching youth sports and fundraising for local events and charities. I am excited and optimistic about the possibilities of change in our children’s educational experience.

JEFF VIVIAN

Firstly, I am a father of two Whitehall High School students - a senior and a sophomore - and have extended family in the high school, middle school, Zephyr and elementary schools, which brings an excellent understanding of challenges that students face at almost every level. As a head coach for the JV softball team, I interact with administration/students, which broadens my perspective of issues within the school district. Lastly, my business background is a constant stream of heavy decision making and negotiating under adverse conditions. All of these experiences will be an asset to the school board position.

KERI KROMER

Having a background in both education and business gives me insight into multiple facets of a school board position. I have a degree in education and have worked in our district and with students in surrounding districts from pre-K through high school. I am a Whitehall graduate, have current students and a recent graduate. I am committed to community service and excited to invest the time necessary to continue to move our district forward. With my experience, I am able to see the perspective of parents, students, teachers and administrators and work for the benefit of the entire community.

WILLIAM FONZONE SR.

My current service as a Whitehall-Coplay School Board director, commitment to our community, past teaching experience and seasoned business leadership make me a suitable candidate for re-election. I understand, as an experienced school director, the challenges the school district faces this year. I also continue to appreciate the administration, teachers, support staff and students’ dedication, optimism and persistence during the pandemic. The school board will face two major challenges this coming school year: the financial implications and the impact on student academics due to the pandemic. I will navigate these challenges alongside my fellow board members with confidence and resolve.