Trio of two-term incumbents not running again
At least three new faces will join the North Penn School Board in 2026, as a trio of two-term incumbents are not running again.
Incumbent Democrat Al Roesch is joined on the “North Penn Neighbors for Progress” team by newcomers Christine Coyne, Koh Chiba and Ken Keiser. Democrats Tina Stoll, Christian Fusco and Jonathan Kassa, all first elected with Roesch in 2017 and reelected in 2021, will not be on the ballot this year.
Opposing that group will be the “North Penn United” team of Jeff Eshleman, Michael Jowder, Yanni Lambros and Thomas Moyer. Jowder ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the board in 2023 and Lambros has previously run for a seat on Lansdale borough council in 2021 and 2023.
Seven of the eight candidates have cross-filed and will appear on both Democratic and Republican ballots in the May 20 primary; Jowder will appear on only the Republican ballot, according to election information provided by Montgomery County. The top four vote totals on each side of the ballot will then face off in the Nov. 4 general election.
All eight candidates were sent the same questions; below are the answers from the North Penn Neighbors for Progress candidates, and answers from the North Penn United candidates will appear separately.
Coyne
Christine Coyne (Submitted photo)Describe your background and qualifications for the position you are seeking.
I am a North Penn High School alumna and mother of four children that are either currently enrolled in the district or will soon be. I am a lifelong public servant and have focused my community volunteerism on both international and local nonprofits and organizations.
My focus with volunteerism has ranged from the North Penn School district Safety Action Committee, community health, special needs children, families that experience social determinants of health (such as food and housing insecurity), and LGBTQIA+ advocacy.
Professionally, I am a registered nurse with experience in Labor and Delivery, Maternity continuum, and Pediatrics. I am a certified Case Manager and have held leadership positions with large health insurers managing large multidisciplinary teams. After earning my Master in Business Administration, I have focused more in business strategy, financial analysis, and innovation. I bring a unique perspective and skillset to the North Penn School District board.
What would your main goals or priorities be as a school board member?
My main focus area as a school board member is safe and equitable education. Every student has unique needs in order to feel empowered and valued in the school system. Behavioral health needs are also at an all time high and need to be addressed. We also need to focus on improving our school’s structures while being fiscally responsible to taxpayers.
Cuts to state and federal funding could impact school district budgets. How do you see and approach discussions about the local tax burden?
The potential federal and state funding limitations is an issue that the district and the board should prepare for. I am aware that federal funding accounts for about two percent of the overall budget for the district. And that puts North Penn School District in a much better position than many other districts when navigating these possible changes.
Still — this potential challenge is a valid concern. This issue is something to fully research and make measured, well thought out solutions. I also believe it should be a comprehensive discussion taking into account many perspectives including but not limited to — the community, administration, teachers/staff, students, and families.
What do you see as the biggest issues the board must address in the next four years?
The biggest issues I see in the next four years are mental health needs in students, school safety, and our aging facilities.
Renovations to North Penn High School are scheduled to start this summer and run into the 2030s.What are your thoughts on that project, and are there any changes or revisions you would make before the next phase is finalized?
This is a needed project. Our facilities and buildings are the only thing dragging down school ratings in comparison to other comparable districts in Pennsylvania. I grew up in the 90’s when the decision was made by previous school boards to cut costs and put temporary fixes to buildings. The cost of renovation and bringing our buildings up remain in function, safe, and accessible has only greatly increased since then.
I do not want my children, yet another generation, to be in this same position.
All of that being said — we need to continue being fiscally responsible. This current 10 year facility improvement plan is only updating the true needs to keep our schools functioning, there is no “nice to haves”.
I think as construction costs fluctuate and the needs of the facilities change — the school board will have to consistently reevaluate the plan and make updates or changes where needed to best serve our students while being responsible with taxpayer dollars.
Your campaign website, social media pages, and/or anywhere else our readers can find you.
Facebook: Christine Coyne for North Penn School Board
Instagram: Christine_CoyneForNPSDSB
Chiba
Koh Chiba (Submitted photo)Describe your background and qualifications for the position you are seeking.
My career has been spent in government and policy, including 12 years working for Congresswoman Madeleine Dean, and currently work in public affairs for a major values-driven company. I’ve built coalitions, shaped legislation, and helped deliver results for families.
I also serve on the board of a nonprofit that supports individuals with mental illness.
But most importantly, I’m a parent—my two young children are future North Penn students. My wife is a proud North Penn graduate and current school counselor in the district. I bring both personal investment and professional expertise to this role, and I believe I can help lead our district forward with integrity, transparency, and a strong focus on student success.
What would your main goals or priorities be as a school board member?
My top priorities are student safety, mental health, academic excellence, and equity. I want every student to feel safe and supported so they can thrive–especially given the current political climate. That includes expanding mental health resources, ensuring schools are inclusive and welcoming.
I will also advocate for academic interventions to help close achievement gaps, and for stronger family and community engagement across the district.
Finally, I’ll push for transparent budgeting and policy decisions that center student needs and community voices. I’m committed to listening, learning, and leading in partnership with families and educators.
Cuts to state and federal funding could impact school district budgets. How do you see and approach discussions about the local tax burden?
I recognize that families are feeling pressure from rising costs–federal cuts would only exacerbate this issue–and we have to be responsible stewards of public funds. At the same time, our schools are the foundation of our community, and they need stable funding to meet the needs of all students.
As for the approach, I believe in clear communication with taxpayers about how funds are used, why investments matter, and what trade-offs would be. Trust comes from transparency—and I would always lead with honesty and fiscal responsibility.
What do you see as the biggest issues the board must address in the next four years?
The next four years will be critical for North Penn. We must be on the leading edge of innovation, provide diverse options for career paths, and address achievement gaps to ensure every student has access to rigorous, inclusive learning. We must expand mental health and student support services. We must also navigate the challenges of political polarization, standing strong for honest, inclusive education.
Finally, we must be thoughtful and transparent stewards of our facilities projects, budgets, and policy decisions—engaging the community every step of the way. The issues we face are complex, but with collaboration and clear values, we can meet them.
Renovations to North Penn High School are scheduled to start this summer and run into the 2030s.What are your thoughts on that project, and are there any changes or revisions you would make before the next phase is finalized?
The renovation of North Penn High School is a much needed and overdue investment in the future of our students and our community. It’s essential that we create a modern, safe, and accessible facility that meets evolving educational needs. I support the project and appreciate the thoughtful work that has gone into planning it. Transparency and fiscal responsibility will be key as we enter the next phase. I would ensure we continue to evaluate the project through an equity lens and prioritize spaces that support academic success, career readiness, and student well-being.
Your campaign website, social media pages, and/or anywhere else our readers can find you.
Facebook: Koh Chiba for North Penn School Board
Keiser
Ken Keiser (Submitted photo)Describe your background and qualifications for the position you are seeking.
I’m a certified cybersecurity professional with governance expertise, currently leading cybersecurity efforts at a major rail and transit organization. I bring over 40 years of automation engineering and cybersecurity governance managing large-scale technology and infrastructure projects for international organizations and U.S. public agencies.
My core strength is cybersecurity and project management, particularly in complex environments with multiple stakeholders—exactly what is needed for North Penn’s high school renovation. In today’s world, cybersecurity is a key part of student safety—protecting everything from personal data to the systems that run our schools.
A 29-year Upper Gwynedd resident, I’ve raised two daughters through North Penn schools and have long volunteered with district and church programs. My experience blends hands-on technical work with community service, equipping me to guide well-thought-out decisions that benefit our students and taxpayers.
What would your main goals or priorities be as a school board member?
My top goal is to bring common sense and transparency to the high school renovation, ensuring it stays on schedule and within budget. I support targeted academic programs to help close achievement gaps and prepare every student for long-term success. I also believe in strengthening the partnership between schools, families, and the broader community—because good education depends on collaboration.
As a board member, I’ll advocate for transparent budgeting and thoughtful policy decisions that reflect student needs and community priorities. I’m committed to listening, learning, and leading with respect for all voices in the district. I want to protect policies that promote safe, fair learning environments and equip students to thrive in a global economy.
I’ll prioritize respectful board discussions, strong community engagement, and clear communication with taxpayers. I believe in building coalitions—not conflict—and making thoughtful, forward-looking decisions that reflect both fiscal responsibility and educational excellence.
Cuts to state and federal funding could impact school district budgets. How do you see and approach discussions about the local tax burden?
Last year, North Penn voters chose not to exceed the Act 1 index for 2024—reflecting legitimate concerns about tax increases. But at the same time, the need for renovations and rising costs have not gone away. In the future we will have to weigh trade-offs especially if federal funding is reduced. Whether it’s tightening spending, adjusting timelines, or possibly seeking voter approval again, these are difficult choices. My priority will be to support honest dialogue with taxpayers and support long-term planning to avoid sudden fiscal surprises.
What do you see as the biggest issues the board must address in the next four years?
The biggest long-term threat is the growing effort at the federal level to defund or dismantle public education through vouchers, political distractions, and other policy shifts. Locally, we also face an unfair financial burden caused by how the state funds charter schools—diverting significant dollars away from our brick-and-mortar public schools. At the same time, we must address the mental health challenges facing our students—especially those amplified by social media and digital isolation.
Schools are being asked to support young people as they navigate online pressures, anxiety, and emotional stress. The board must stay focused on what truly matters: academic excellence, respect for the diverse cultures represented in our schools, and strong public schools that serve all students. That means managing renovations effectively, maintaining financial sustainability, and keeping politics from undermining student success. The board must stay grounded in facts, not fear, and govern with integrity.
Renovations to North Penn High School are scheduled to start this summer and run into the 2030s. What are your thoughts on that project, and are there any changes or revisions you would make before the next phase is finalized?
The high school renovation is overdue. The building is over 50 years old, with outdated infrastructure and systems that are expensive to maintain. Prior boards delayed action for decades, and now we are playing catch-up. Outdated facilities don’t just cost more — they also affect the quality of education. Poor heating, lighting, and unreliable technology interfere with learning. Better infrastructure promotes stronger learning outcomes by giving students and teachers the safe, functional, and modern environment they deserve.
While I won’t be on the board until after the next phase is awarded, I can influence future phases. My focus will be on clear communication and transparency —helping the public understand what’s happening, what it costs (and why the renovation may save money long-term), and why it matters. This project is an investment in our children and our community’s future, and it must be managed with accountability and common sense.
Your campaign website, social media pages, and/or anywhere else our readers can find you.
Website: kenkeiser.com
Facebook: Ken Keiser 4 NP School Board
Roesch
Al Roesch (Submitted photo)Describe your background and qualifications for the position you are seeking
I served in the U.S. Air Force, have a BA in Business Management from Moravian College, a BS in Computer Science from Penn State, and a MS in Business Administration from Central Michigan.
I designed, developed, and implemented computer systems for major corporations including GE Aerospace, GE Astrospace, Smith Kline, Aetna, and Independence Blue Cross. My experience includes writing business proposals, business analysis, project planning, project management, and team leadership.
I have been on the North Penn School Board for five years, am Chair of North Montco Technical Career Center, Chair of the Policy Committee, and Vice Chair of the Finance Committee. I am an avid supporter of North Penn’s Education Foundation.I will work with our community to make North Penn schools a place where our children will succeed, and our community will talk about with pride.
What would your main goals or priorities be as a school board member?
The 2026 North Penn Neighbors for Progress team will work to fulfill the educational, social, safety and emotional needs of our children. We will do this in a fiscally responsible manner.
As a team, we are committed to communicate honestly, openly, and effectively with the students, parents, teachers, administrators, and taxpayers in our community. This communication will help us improve our Facility Plan and other priorities. It takes years to plan, design, develop, and implement fiscally responsible property management. That is why our team developed and maintains North Penn School District first ever 10-Year Comprehensive Facility Plan.
As chair of the North Montco Technical Career Center, I will make sure that every student has access to a quality education that ensures students a living wage. We added 250 students, and four new technical classes recently. We will add another 50 students this year and will continue to add new classes to meet student and community needs.
Cuts to state and federal funding could impact school district budgets. How do you see and approach discussions about the local tax burden?
We need to continue to work closely with our state and federal officials so they clearly understand the needs of our children and our community. Key to this discussion is fair funding for our schools and paying charter schools based on their cost of service. Inefficiency in these two programs cost local taxpayers millions of dollars a year with minimal benefits.
We must also continue to talk with policy experts to monitor the impacts of government funding cuts, and plan for any changes. We are not aware of any immediate impacts yet, but remain vigilant.
What do you see as the biggest issues the board must address in the next four years?
The 2026 North Penn Neighbors for Progress team will be accountable to the children, parents, teachers, administrators, and taxpayers in our community. We must balance the needs of each of these groups to reach a strategic, fiscally responsible consensus.
Out of over twenty districts in Montgomery County, North Penn has the fifth lowest school tax rate. This is both a blessing and a curse. As a taxpayer, I appreciate low taxes. Yet, the problem is that in the past we did not invest enough in our school infrastructure. Past school board leadership only addressed critical issues, without developing a strategic plan for improvements.
A good example of this is that instead of properly renovating schools, we bought “temporary” trailer classrooms. These deteriorating “temporary” classrooms have been used for decades. With no long term planning or budgeting to replace the temporary classrooms, students and staff suffer, while taxpayers must now pay for past “savings.” North Penn Neighbors for Progress created a ten year plan to address infrastructure needs, and updates it continuously.
Renovations to North Penn High School are scheduled to start this summer and run into the 2030s. What are your thoughts on that project, and are there any changes or revisions you would make before the next phase is finalized?
The board and the administration work with infrastructure experts to develop a process where students, staff, and our community work together to determine what is best for our community. I believe this process is the only way to meet the current and future needs of North Penn High School. We will also meet regularly with financial and construction experts to ensure the high school work is completed in a fiscally responsible manner.
Your campaign website, social media pages, and/or anywhere else our readers can find you.
Facebook: North Penn Neighbors for Progress
Website: www.npneighborsforprogress.com
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