Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, April 27, 1993                   TAG: 9304270289
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

SCHOOL BOARD CONTEST LOOKS LIKE 3-WAY RACE

Incumbents Finn Pincus and Charles Day were backed for new terms at the hearing by City Council to hear citizens' comments on the five applicants.

Patricia Witten, former president of the Central Council of the Parent Teacher Association, also was supported by several speakers.

Witten's supporters pointed out that she has children in city schools, a perspective they said is needed on the School Board. Only one board member has children in schools.

Marsha Ellison, president of the PTA's Central Council, said there are rumors that school programs will be cut when the new superintendent takes over next year.

Ellison said parents want to be assured that programs won't be trimmed. The appointment of Witten would help ease the parents' worries, she said.

William Hopkins urged the reappointment of Pincus, who has been board chairman for two years. Hopkins said Pincus was successful in leading the board's search for a superintendent to succeed Frank Tota. "We need Finn Pincus' leadership in this time of change," said Percy Downing.

The Rev. Kenneth Wright asked council to reappoint Charles Day, a former teacher, principal and coach. Wright said Day is a man of many assets and talents. "I urge you to become aware of the assets you have in [Day]," Wright said.

Jay Smith said Day is familiar with every level and aspect of the city school system. "He creates opportunities for young people," Smith said.

The other applicants for the two board seats are Paul Corn and Joel Kelly.

Council will publicly interview all five applicants Thursday night and make the appointments next month.