Zachary Hanley, 47, and Meaghan Carlson, 46, are running for the seat Carlson holds on the Gardiner-area school board. The winner will join four other board members representing Gardiner on the 12-person Maine School Administrative District 11 school board.

Early voting is underway, and election day is Nov. 4.

Meaghan Carlson

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

My background in early childhood education gives me insight into how children learn and what supports they need to succeed. As a long-time community member and parent of three school-aged children, I bring a perspective that centers students and families. Over the past 15 years in Gardiner, I’ve volunteered extensively — with the Kennebec Leadership Institute, city committees, community planning and engagement projects, Girl Scouts, and Children’s Hospital fundraising — experiences that have strengthened my collaboration and leadership skills.

What made you decide to run for school board?

My motivation to run stems from a desire to better understand and contribute to the process of
governing public education. As a parent of three children in the district, I want to ensure that
every decision we make supports a learning environment where all students can thrive. My
priorities include transparency, student well-being, and community engagement.

What is something the Gardiner-area schools do well? 

Our dedicated teachers and administrators keep the district running smoothly under grim budget constraints. I’m always impressed by the thorough work of the district’s curriculum and finance directors.

What is something the Gardiner-area schools could improve on?

Amplifying the voices of the students, giving opportunities for students to be heard,  and facilitating connections within the community. 

Anything else you’d like the community to know?

I believe in listening first. I spend time informing myself on all relevant topics, considering
multiple perspectives, and approaching issues with empathy and objectivity. My goal is to
foster understanding and collaboration, even when viewpoints differ.

Zachary Hanley

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in Pittston. For the last 20 years, my wife and I have lived in Gardiner. We have five children who have either graduated or are currently enrolled at MSAD 11. I have served on the Gardiner Planning Board for 10 years. I volunteer coach for several youth sports and weekly volunteer in our schools for more than 10 years.

What made you decide to run for school board? 

I have been frustrated with the lack of civility at the meetings, along with the lack of communication, transparency and what that means for the student body, teachers and the rest of the district.

What is something the Gardiner-area schools do well? 

 All of our teachers go above and beyond helping students.  I have witnessed and experienced this countless times over the years. 

What is something the Gardiner-area schools could improve on? 

I would include the board and district in the language of the “schools.” I don’t feel that all voices are being heard and or represented. It’s not a question of can we hear and represent all sides: we must. 

Anything else you would like the community to know? 

I would urge more parents to get involved in any way they can. You may feel that a small amount of time won’t make a difference; I can tell you from personal experience that it will make a difference. I will conclude with this: I am not running against Meaghan Carlson, I am running against what so many feel is a system that does not care about either “side.” Which is to say I am running for, what I hope is, everyone.