On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, district residents will vote for three seats on the Schodack Board of Education. Each seat is for a 3-year term (July 1, 2026- June 30, 2029). This year’s candidates and a statement from each in their own words are listed below. Candidate names are listed in the order they will appear on the ballot.

Voters will also decide whether to approve a proposed budget for the 2026–27 school year. Visit the budget page for more information on the budget, where to vote and more.

Meet the Board Candidates Event

There is a Meet the Board Candidates event on Thursday, May 7, 2026, during the Schodack Board of Education Workshop starting at 6:00 PM in the Schodack District Office Board Room (1477 South Schodack Rd). More information is available here.

Board of Education Candidates

Andris Blumbergs

I am a U.S. Coast Guard Veteran and currently serve as Director of Planning and Development for the Town of Colonie. In my role, I oversee hundreds of development projects and guide long-term planning initiatives. I bring over a decade of local government experience, which gives me a unique and practical perspective on leadership and accountability.

Beyond my professional work, I have coached student athletes as a Head Freestyle Ski Coach, working with individuals of all abilities—from first-time skiers to elite competitors. My wife has been a teacher at CES for the past seven years, giving me a close, personal perspective on the needs of students, families, and educators.

I am running for the Board of Education to bring a new perspective, strengthen communication, improve accountability, and support well-managed schools that provide consistent opportunities for all students.

Shelley Palmer

My name is Shelley Palmer, and I have had the honor to serve our community as a member of the Board of Education for the past seven years. My husband, Zac, and I have two children, Vivienne and Andrew, who are members of the class of 2028. You are likely to find us on the sidelines of a Maple Hill sporting event or music performance. I currently work for NYS at the Division of Criminal Justice Services. I have degrees in Chemistry and Forensic Science. I spent 10+ years in science education.

As a member of the Board, I am proud to have worked together to update the district’s vision and mission. I am seeking reelection to continue to support and advocate for the resources to provide the students of Schodack Schools with an education that will provide them with the tools to be successful in their future endeavors.

Mary Yurista

Schodack is a special place. As a member of this community for over 35 years, I’m privileged to have served on the Board of Education for 12 years as a member and as Vice-President. We’ve carefully transformed our facilities into a 21st-century learning environment and enhanced our educational model during that time. With the support of the Schodack BOE, I also serve on the Board of our educational partner, Questar III.

In my professional life (BS-SUNY Oswego, MBA-SUNY Albany), I have served in various technical capacities, leading and participating in projects that have brought innovation and improvement. The private sector offers beneficial guidance and progressive ideas that allow us to sustain and improve the quality of education and everyday life for all. As a parent and grandparent, I want the same success for every student that my children (three Maple Hill graduates) have been able to enjoy. I would be honored to be able to continue to help the BOE meet the challenges we face in our schools to facilitate the well-being and future success of our students in this new, uncertain environment and economy.