Testimonials

Ask people that actually know me and see what they think. Here are a few of those folks. They come from every demographic and every corner of our district; from Katonah to Vista, South Salem to North Salem, Pound Ridge to Waccabuc, Goldens Bridge to Cross River. Hopefully, it will give you a sense of who I am, what I am all about and, more importantly, my character traits. In the end, the issues will change over time, so the people you put on the board need to be trusted that they will make rational, practical and commonsense decisions that are in the best interest of everyone in our community.

"As a twenty-six year veteran public school teacher, I am proud to say Bill Swertfeger is a leader who puts the priorities of the student first. I have witnessed him applying the philosophy he professes; he ensure each team member grows to the best of their ability before the team succeeds. This lies in stark contrast to the coaching my family and I have seen at Katonah-Lewisboro of win at all costs. He has selflessly dedicated himself over two plus decades to help grow our children into strong leaders who have the resolve to better themselves and their community. Bill’s leadership skills and teaching style is needed in a time when we are surrounded by well meaning people who dare not make bold decisions that are needed in order to positively impact our students." - Jonathan M.

"As a 20+ year member of the Katonah Lewisboro community I have known Bill and his family forever. Our family’s paths intersected at school, in the sporting venues and at religious services. He has built sports programs single-handedly, he has participated as a religious instructor for young people and he has built a successful local business employing town residents. In every case, I can think of no better man to represent our community on the school board than Bill. He is passionate at whatever task he undertakes. He is action oriented and results driven. What better qualities to have in a school board member than that? Let’s give our kids and our community the kind of school district they deserve." - Bill L.

"Having a professional relationship with Bill for over 20 years, I have seen first hand the integrity and commitment he has towards the kids and athletic programs at Katonah-Lewisboro. His years of coaching and mentoring kids would make him an invaluable asset for the Katonah-Lewisboro board." - Rick H.

"Bill is a true leader who has proven his dedication to the KLSD community for over forty years. Bill will serve the KLSD BOE with pride, integrity and inspire Katonah- Lewisboro residents to take an interest in our schools once again. I support Bill Swertfager for the KLSD BOE!" - Jim C.

"I have known Bill for over 50 years, as a schoolmate, a teammate, a father, a businessman, a coach and a great friend. He is a man of high-character and high-integrity, who has dedicated his life to helping those around him improve their lives. In particular, having lived in Lewisboro for 35 years, and I have never seen a person give as much of himself to the youth of the community, as Bill. He has worked tirelessly to coach, teach, mentor or assist every youth that has crossed his path, to become a better person. Always with great sensitivity to their particular needs, and always with great respect for each of them as individuals. He has demonstrated by his actions, that he is a natural fit to become an outstanding member of the Board of Education, and will give a level of commitment and dedication that few, if any, are willing to give." - John C.

"I worked with Bill Swertfager for 10 years as a volunteer assistant wrestling coach at John Jay High and Middle Schools. Bill was Head Coach and built the wrestling program at John Jay into one of the most successful in the County and was a driving force for all of Section 1 wrestling. What stood out was his dedication to building character and discipline in his athletes as well as excellent performance. But more importantly, he always gave more of his attention to those students who were beginners or having trouble learning or mastering this difficult sport. His goal was to have all of the team learn and improve and build confidence in themselves. The John Jay school system will be fortunate to have him on the School Board to devote his dedication and drive to the overall school system." - Phil P.

"Bill Swertfager is genuine and true to his word. As a coach at KSLD, he gives everyone an opportunity, not just the best athletes in that sport. He works with each student athlete to improve their confidence and mental well-being, which helps them to flourish and succeed both on and off the field. One of the things I was most impressed with is his inclusion and ability to work with kids who are individuals with disabilities. He instills a confidence in them to feel comfortable to put themselves in the game, and he creates a friendly, positive environment for them to be included and part of the team. As a KLSD school board member, I think he will bring great perspective." – Allison H.

"I’ve had the pleasure and honor to know Bill most of my life. You will not find a person who dedicates and devotes himself more to the task at hand. He sets lofty goals…and achieves them! His life to this point has been a shining example of his amazing passion in which he approaches the day. If there is a challenging situation he is presented with, he will find the smart solution. He does this by pouring every ounce of thought and care into finding answers that work. There are NO excuses or shortcuts. The truth is, he makes everyone around him better. He has set the bar high. His enthusiasm and energy are contagious. He cares about all people, nor matter what they look like, their age, where they went to school or for whom they voted. If you truly care about our kids’ futures, Bill Swertfager is the only choice for our School Board." - Adam K.

"When I think about Bill, integrity, honesty and grit are three of the words that immediately come to mind. My son wrestled for him and it was one of the best experiences he’s had in his life. There was never a time where any one of us reached out to him for any type of help or guidance, that he wasn’t available. Bill is truly the real deal and I could not be happier that he is running for school board. What an asset he will be and the refreshing change we so desperately need in our district. I not only support him, I thank him yet again for putting himself out there for others. That is exactly who he is!" - Simone P.

"Bill Swertfager would be an asset to the Katonah-Lewisboro School Board. He simply cares about kids. My youngest son was a member of the wrestling team, during his four years at John Jay High School. The team was one unit. Attention was given to all of the athletes. It didn’t matter how good of a wrestler you were. The athletes were taught respect for others, their community, and for themselves. They were shown that you must help others in the community. Bill’s value system was imparted to the team. I can honestly say that our son is a better person because he knows Bill. This is what our schools should be about. Our children need to be given a first class education, including those with special needs. They also need to be taught, through example, the values needed as they go through life. Bill Swertfager knows how to do that." - Renee S.

"We wholeheartedly support Bill S for KLSD board. We can vouch for the many qualities, professional experience and skills he will bring to the school board. Bill is committed to public service. He will devote time and attention to board duties. Bill will provide fiscally responsible oversight in setting and monitoring budgets. Having run a successful business for over 40-years, even in this tumultuous economy, he understands the business and operations elements of a school district. He sets realistic goals for improvement. He advocates for students and the community. Bill has a common sense approach and good judgement yet uses data to drive decisions. And as a team player, Bill is extremely capable of building strong relationships, collaborations and consensus." - Linda P.W. and Henri W.

"Bill knows how to get the job done with tough leadership and heart. As a parent and business professional, I was inspired by his tireless dedication to develop the student athletes he mentored. Bill teaches that to achieve the best team result, the team must foster the environment to allow each person on the team to strive for their personal best. He leads by example by setting transparent goals and holding himself and others accountable to all constituents. On a personal level, he is one of the most selfless human beings I know and has dedicated his life to his family and building young adults into very capable human beings through his wrestling and other sports programs. For many decades, he has been a great role model for the KLDS community. I can’t imagine anyone more qualified to be a KLDS school board member than Coach Bill." - Mark R.

"What makes a great leader? Selflessness, Integrity, Empathy, Honesty, Love, Vision, Humility, Hard Work, Fairness, Commitment, Self-Awareness, and the willingness to help others. Bill Swertfager embodies these qualities and many more. All three of my sons have been coached by Bill and thru his leadership they have excelled athletically and more importantly are learning the skills to be a great leader. Bill has positively influenced thousands of students and people throughout his career. At the end of the day I have trusted Bill with my children because he has the same core values that I have and I know he would have a tremendous impact on all of the children within our school district if he was elected to the board. This is why he has earned my vote and I know he will get yours!" - Joe F.

"It is with a strong conviction that I can publicly support Bill Swertfager as a candidate for a position on the Katonah-Lewisboro School Board. As an educator for 40 years, I know Bill will be a tremendous asset on so many levels. Not only is Bill a staunch supporter and contributor to the Katonah-Lewisboro community, he is uniquely qualified and tuned in to principals that so many community members can relate to and welcome; he is a highly qualified business person who, as a team player, will pursue and foster decisions that will help the Katonah/Lewisboro School District once again achieve its excellent reputation; a reputation that has been so dismally undermined and badly tarnished by the misguided decisions of the present school board. Bill is a parent, who has seen all three of his children and so many other children in the community, achieve success through his guidance and knowledge as a coach. Bill does not take any task presented lightly. His commitment to the good of all the community for which he serves is just one of his many attributes held in high esteem by so many." - Charlie R.

“Bill is the kind of leader our Board of Education needs. Someone who will listen and respond to our concerns - even if it is not always the answer we want to hear – he will be open to dialogue, discussion and healthy debate (which is so needed in this town) – instead of the stonewalling that has been the mode of operation for our current board for far too long. It is time for fiscal responsibility while also investing in our kids total wellness, education and extracurriculars. We couldn’t ask for a more honest and trustworthy leader to create positive change for our school district and for our kids. I look forward to voting for Bill and for the change he will bring.” - Matt M.

"Bill Swertfager would be the best thing to happen to the school board and this community as a whole. Nobody, and I mean nobody has devoted more time and energy into this community, the school and those that reside here in Lewisboro. From students to athletes to parents Bill has always had everyone’s best intentions at heart. I can’t think of anyone that has a bigger heart than Bill. He will bring leadership, kindness and most importantly the needs of students first as a member of the school board. I can’t think of anyone more qualified and more needed than right now, than Bill Swertfager. I fully endorse and back Bill for school board. " - Scott M.

"Bill is a friend to everyone he meets. He is accessible and engaged. Bill has been an advisor and a mentor to countless young men and women. He doesn’t teach young people only how to play a game and win; he teaches them lessons they can carry with them and win at the game of life. He raises people up, brings out the best in them and makes them believe in themselves. Bill has already given so much to this community and how lucky are we that he has more to give?" - Lisa G.

"As a community member with two students currently in the district, I have seen a variety of changes over my 13 years in KLSD. After witnessing the closure of Lewisboro Elementary, the transition into a new superintendent, and the impacts of many different board members, I am confident that Bill Swertfager is the next change we need for the better of our district. I have seen first-hand how he has pushed for improvement in both the schools and our community. He cares about the students' social-emotional wellness and creating a positive atmosphere within the student body, in addition to setting them up for success by strengthening the curriculum in all five of the Katonah-Lewisboro schools. Since he and his children have experienced all that KLSD has to offer, it is evident through his continued participation in the community that he is dedicated to this district. By being compassionate and well-rounded, Bill is the perfect candidate for everyone that wants the better for our children and the people around us." - Colleen F.

"I have known Bill Swertfager for over 20 years. During that time, I have seen first-hand Bill’s tireless commitment to our Lewisboro community. Bill coached all four of my children and they would all attest that he was the finest coach they ever had. His commitment to the mental and physical well-being of the athletes under his care was evident at all times. Bill will bring to the KLSD board a positive and contagious enthusiasm for improving the education of all of our kids. Our school district will be fortunate to have him on the board and he will be a powerful advocate for both parents and students in Lewisboro." - Geraldine K.

"I have known Bill Swertfager for 35 years and I can tell you first hand the the positive impact he has had on the youth in our community. His focus has and will always be what is best for our children. For me and countless others, Bill has been a great role model and positive influence in building character the right way. He will continue his good work as a Board of Education member to positively influence the community through common sense, hard work, and focus." - Mike B.

"There are many reasons why Bill Swertfager is a perfect candidate for the KLSD board of Education. In the many years I’ve known Bill (as a businessperson, coach, mentor and parent in our district) he has exemplified honor, respect, empathy and selflessness. But more importantly in all of his roles he has shown unwavering commitment and support to ALL in need. Any project, task, or program involving Bill can expect fairness, respect and ultimately success for all; something that KLSD needs for its future. I believe Bill will give his usual 110% to ensure our district can be the Benchmark for success in NYS. I can think of nobody with more heart, energy and track record of success than Bill Swertfager for our next school board." - Ken D.

"I am thrilled to know that Bill Swertfager is a candidate for the Katonah-Lewisboro School Board. I cannot think of a better candidate who is more passionate and dedicated to this school district than Bill. I have seen Bill demonstrate that passion and dedication through years of coaching that helped shape the lives of so many young men and women in this community. I believe Bill represents the fresh face needed on the school board. The students and the taxpayers of this district deserve a school board that is fiscally responsible and attentive to their concerns. They deserve a school board that is willing to go beyond the obligatory public hearings to engage in open and honest dialogue on issues within the district. Bill is the candidate this district deserves. He is a man of integrity and determination. He is a successful businessman and a winning coach. Above all, he is a dedicated family man whose children grew up in the district. I know Bill will work hard to make Katonah-Lewisboro a top school district that all other districts will emulate." - Cassandra D.

"Bill Swertfager's "focus and finish" approach while concentrating on key tasks until completed is unrivaled!. His contagious, positive attitude and bubbling enthusiasm focuses like a laser on positive outcomes. He can "go with the flow" and can switch gears as needed to act on opportunities as they present themselves. Bill is unquestionably action oriented and takes the approach that "if the ship doesn't come in, he'll swim out to meet it". He has spent his entire career networking throughout the community, joining their clubs, socializing and making winning connections by volunteering (and really getting involved, even when he had to get his hands dirty) for worthy causes. Bill thinks big, sets big goals and focuses on achieving those goals. Bills commitment to run for the KLSD Board of Education is simply an extrapolation of his sense of responsibilty as he not only can head up an organization, he has proven to being very effective at building winning teams and producing positive results!" - Chad F.

"I've known Bill for well over a decade. Many times through the years we've had conversations about KLSD and I've always been impressed by his insights and thoughts on what we do well and what we can do better. He's a good family man and a pillar of this community. I whole heartedly support Bill's candidacy for BOE." - Anne F.

"I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Bill for several years, as a parent, businessman and coach. From the first times I met Bill it was clear that he is one of those rare individuals that truly and deeply cares for everyone he meets. To me, Bill exemplifies what a leader should be, approachable, insightful and willing to offer his help to everyone, I have no doubt that as a member of our school board, Bill will work tirelessly to do what is best for our students, our schools and for the broader community." - Rich E.

"Our family has the privilege of working with Bill Swertfager both in business and having him as a coach. Bill is a class act. His professionalism and engagement make him a joy to work with. As a business owner, he has built a team that is responsive and kind to all of our business needs. He has the ability to unite people with varying opinions and abilities to attain goals. We have seen this first hand with his organizational skills pulling together both students and their ENTIRE families and friends to help put together tournaments, fundraisers, and community service projects. His students learned not only to wrestle, but how to engage in their community, help their fellow students, and to become confident in all they do. Bill was one of the few in our district to see our son’s potential, to help him rise above his disability, and become the confident young man he now is. No doubt Bill has both the business savvy and the people skills to work with others to make KLSD a school district of distinction." - Jenn C.

"Bill is a good person, a family man, a local business owner and extremely relatable. When I reflected upon Bill’s impact, I realized how many parallels there were between what he embodied as a coach and what I look for in the professionals I work with. He creates an engaging and inclusive culture though his words, but more importantly his actions. He epitomizes what a leader is by always focusing on what is best for the team or community. At the same time, his approach to supporting and developing each member of the team is tailored to the strengths and needs of that individual. Bill’s approach is that of a steward and someone who is focused on leaving the world in a better place than he found it. I feel very strongly that Bill is the exact type of person we need to help our School District put our kids in the best position to be successful as they go out into the world. His proven skills and abilities would be a tremendous asset to the KLSD." - Tom C.

"So excited to have Bill Swertfager running for the Board of Ed. Both my son and daughter were fortunate to be part of Bill’s wrestling team. He has done more than anyone else in this district to guide and develop their talents, ambitions, confidence, and strength of character. If you're going to talk the talk, you've got to walk the walk. Bill Swertfager does both brilliantly. His devotion to our kids and community’s needs has always been front and center. It is an integral part of his character. His drive, integrity and commitment are infectious, inspiring all to be the best they can be. As past president of the JJMS PTO, Parent Council, chairwoman of the “Race To Nowhere” Committee, and the mom of two KLSD students, I am acutely aware of our district’s needs. I am confident Bill will use his tremendous dedication, skills, and experience to effectively address the myriad issues facing our school district. I heartedly endorse Bill Swertfager for the Katonah-Lewisboro Board of Ed." - Linda L.

"Bill Swertfager is a strong, kind, smart, get the job done , passionate leader! He has shown his remarkable leadership skills and ability through his coaching! Bill will be an amazing addition to the school board. His voice on the board is what so many of us parents have been waiting for! We need a strong , fair , logical thinking board member! Bill has the experience of his children going through this school district and also as an employee of the school district. He is super qualified to fill the seat of a board member! Honest genuine people never need to convince others who they are! Their reputation speaks for its self. Bills reputation not only speaks but screams of who is! He certainly has my vote!!" - Rebecca F.

"Bill Swertfager was by far the most impactful leader I came to know as a student in the John Jay school district. As a member of the modified and high school wrestling team, I witnessed 'Coach Bill' treat every wrestler, regardless of ability, equally fair with the utmost respect and compassion. Bill defines leader and has a truly unique ability of bringing people together. Where Bill led, we followed. There is no finer individual better fit to join our school board and shape the future of John Jay students. Having Bill on our school board would be a tremendous gift to the families of KLSD!" - James K.

"Dedicated, loyal and action-oriented are the first words that come to mind when I think of Bill. Our family knows first hand Bill’s love of his family, friends and community. He is an individual that we can rely on and one we deeply respect. He is a natural leader; a good listener. Bill will be an incredible asset to the Board of Ed, bringing with him his knowledge of the education system having raised his family here, the extracurricular activities having been a coach and parent, and the issues that our students and community members are faced with in these challenging times. Bill is smart, level headed and will be able to prioritize the agenda to get what needs to get done" - Susan M.

"Bill Swertfager has dedicated his life to bringing up those around him. He is a true leader and has had such a positive impact on KLSD for years and years. Anyone who has had the privilege to be coached by Bill will say that his integrity, dedication, and leadership is unmatched. Not to mention he always puts the needs of others first and lends an open ear and open mind to all situations. He has a clear vision for our community and has a long track record of execution. I couldn’t think of a better candidate to serve on our Board of Education and I am so excited that he has decided to run!" - Kim D.

"Bill Swertfager has decided to run for our Katonah-Lewisboro School District Board of Education. Bill has done it all - committed husband and father, star athlete, engaged entrepreneur, esteemed coach and more. I have known this great guy for many years. He grew up in nearby Chappaqua, worked there in his long-time family business, and then moved into Katonah with his wife Diane to raise a lovely family and placed his business right here in Cross River, a lucky day for our community! Now his son has businesses here as well—the Swertfagers are truly vested in our District. While his family and business grew, Bill has also been known for his respect and concern for all our youth. His wrestling program at John Jay was highly regarded and impactful for so many. As a multi-sport coach over many years, he inspired such devotion that families and neighbors from across the political spectrum speak out for him, and former student athletes drove from hours away to attend School Board meetings to be heard in support of the man of character that had such a positive and abiding impact on their lives. Bill now wants to make a further positive difference by serving our district’s school board using his first-hand experience and values. Bill is exactly the sort of parent and citizen every community needs: kind and decent, strong and brave and genuinely giving of his time and resources. If Bill Swertfager is willing to continue his hard work for our children and their futures by serving on this KLSD Board, we should unhesitatingly give him the opportunity to do so." - Deirdre C.

"It’s hard to put into words how highly we regard Bill Swertfager. We have known him for 7 years - since the day our son joined the wrestling team - no experience whatsoever - and was welcomed and transformed by the experience. We watched in awe the way that Bill ran that team - ensuring the safety of the team and managers, fostering camaraderie and a feeling of family, providing opportunities for all to train, compete, work, and give back to the community. All of this was done with extraordinary organization, passion, respect and gratitude. It makes perfect sense, then, for Bill to bring these qualities and skills to the Board of Education of the Katonah Lewisboro School District . He brings years of leadership, organization and communication skills to the table - not to mention his endless energy and love for this community." - Jess & Mike N.

"I’m writing on behalf of Bill Swertfager the former wrestling coach of JJHS. I don’t normally reach out and praise or 'attaboy' people unless i feel they go above and beyond daily life expectations of your everyday 9-5 , dinner and home. Bill is one of the most generous, caring and enduring people I’ve met in the Katonah/Bedford area, not to mention in all of John Jay. I am a product of this school system and my family. All I can say is, I’m so proud that my son decided to wrestled in 8th grade. I’ve never seen a more motivated and determined group of young men as the wrestling team and most of it was due to Mr. Swertfager. He wasn’t unreasonably tough but had a firm pulse on what these boys could do and what was expected of them. I’m so proud of my son and what good morals and judgement he has and a lot of this is because of his wrestling experience. As for Bill becoming a school board member, the school definitely needs diversity after seeing what I saw at the board meeting, where 300+ people turned out on behalf of this man to demand that he keep his job as coach. The look of arrogance on the board members faces during this 5-6 hour meeting was like we were all wasting their time. So this is where the diversity would be a blessing, having someone who actually cares for the kids, not just the sport kids, but the ones too that do music, art, theater and even the kids that don't excel in school work and the after-school curriculum. He cares about every child! That is why Bill Swertfager would be a great asset to the school board and the parents whose tax dollars go to the school budget. We would all be getting a man who listens and understands the needs of the students and parents too." - Don S.

"We met Bill as the director of wrestling shortly before the pandemic when our boys joined the program at JJ schools. He immediately took over our hearts with his warmth, openness, and father-like approach to our kids. Bill's motivational letters to wrestlers and parents are historical! One only needs to visit JJMS wrestling room to see his work in this matter on the walls. It is one of many things Bill created to equip children with mental strength and drive to succeed. We hope that more students in our schools will benefit from Bill's future work as a trustee on the Board of Education.” - Anna W.

"Bill sacrifices himself without thought because there's only one thing... he cares about the students at KLDS schools.

I have know Bill for over 6 years, as a wrestling parent. Even when he is coaching, he goes far beyond the expectations of a being a coach. To have Bill part of the Board of Education, would be win for the KLSD. I stand for Bill, NO QUESTION! Great leader for the students and the community" - Nicole G.

"It was pure kismet that we landed in the John Jay school district after moving from Wellesley, Massachusetts as our sons had just taken up wrestling and they were blessed with Coach Bill. If you have had the opportunity to cross paths with Bill Swertfager, you are extraordinarily lucky. In him you will find an exceptional teacher, coach, mentor and leader who will raise the level of our Board of Education to new heights. It mystifies us why he continues to volunteer his time, his knowledge, his energy and his experience to other people’s kids, and our community at large. It speaks to his character, determination, and generosity of spirit. Bill doesn’t just speak about integrity, honesty, conviction and hard work, he models them. WE are voting for a person, not the issue of the day. Our vote is for Bill.” - Malcolm F. & Tara O.

"After witnessing the travesties that took place with the KLSD current board over the last year its time for a change and it's time for the community's voice to be heard loud and clear! Bill Swertfager has dedicated his life teaching, guiding and mentoring children in this community. Playback the November 17, 2022 BOE meeting and witness it for yourself. He is an impact maker. Bill walks the walk, he will fight for what he teaches our kids-fairness, justice, character and integrity. He will always put the interest of parents and students first and not rubber stamp the Administration’s agenda. He will challenge and question and stand up for what is right. We need a true advocate for our children with no personal agenda. His presence on this board is vital to the district’s recovery from this difficult year and to achieve success for EVERY student and family in the immediate future. I hope you will join me in supporting Bill Swertfager for School Board." - Marianne F.

"I couldn't be happier to support Bill's candidacy for school board. He and his family's connections run far and wide through our district. He has made a difference in so many lives. He is a communicator as evidenced by a tremendous coaching career – a skill which will come in handy as he serves as a trustee on our school board. There are only two kinds of people, those who are supporting Bill and those who haven't met him yet." - Don S.

"There is no one better suited for a school board position than Bill Swertfager. Besides living here for over 40 years and being incredibly active throughout that time, his participation in sports, in the community and in business has enabled him to have the pulse on everything needed to make the right decisions for our school system. He has worked with both kids and adults in many facets and has improved our quality of life in this town, now he can do the same for the schools. He is honest, fair, compassionate and knowledgeable. He’s willing to tackle the hard work necessary to do what’s right for the school system. He will do the research, get the answers and deliver! It’s time for a change and Bill will make it happen. We are lucky that Bill wants to take on this all-consuming job. Let’s not miss this opportunity to have someone we can trust in a position to make a real difference! Bill Swertfager is the candidate to vote for." - Toni K.

"I've known Bill for a very long time and can't say enough great things about him. He is a leader, an educator, and compassionate and empathetic to the needs of our school community. Bill will make an excellent trustee." - Stephanie F.

"Bill will truly be a voice for our community as he is someone who wants the best for our kids, just like we do. He listens, asks questions, takes feedback, and will work tirelessly to make the district the best it can be. He will take his role on the board as seriously as we expect him to. Bill has dedicated his whole career to the well-being and education of all students in the district, taking into account a variety of different family situations, needs, and challenges. Bill has character and integrity, and his reputation speaks for itself. He always puts the interests of parents and students first. Our family of four supports Bill Swertfager." - Marc & Alison B.

"Many parents encouraged us to get our son involved with “Coach Bill’s” wrestling program when he was eligible. Initially, Bill’s personality and positive attitude was just a neighborhood legend we heard about. But after our son’s extraordinary experience wrestling, our family now affectionately refers to the legendary “Coach Bill” as “Big Bill”. “Big” because Bill goes big in all that he does. He sets lofty goals and plans to achieve them not only for himself but for all those around him. “Big” because just look at his winning record as a coach, his thriving local business, and all of his community involvement. “Big” because he has a huge heart! Bill is extremely compassionate and determined to bring out the best in every student he coaches and the community at large through his unwavering support, teaching of positive life lessons, hard work, and commitment. What other Coach works out daily side by side with their team at 6:00 am? Bill states his only agenda in running for BOE is “to make this the best school district in the nation.” I know firsthand that when Bill sets a goal, he achieves it by working efficiently and effectively to make it happen. The goal he has set is big but I believe that “Big Bill” will get it done! Bill has my vote and I encourage you to give yours as well." - Karen R.

"In the fall of 2010, I signed our 6 year old son up for the local Youth Wrestling program run by Bill Swertfarger at John Jay Middle School. We really didn’t know what to expect, but having been a wrestler I had pretty high expectations. Never would I have guessed that my expectations would have been surpassed in all ways. Bill was the model coach, overseer and leader. Although he was the HS coach at the time, he came to every youth practice and most of the tournaments. He treated our son with respect and dignity despite his disabilities. Bill never raised his voice in anger, swore or discriminated against any wrestler based on talent or anything else. I was so impressed that I signed up to help coach and stayed with the youth program until our son went to MS wrestling program. Our son felt so included that he stayed with wrestling (above all other sports) throughout HS and even was a captain his senior year. As a community member, Bill has sponsored numerous events like the turkey trot and feeding those in need on Christmas. His children have all graduated in the John Jay school system and have given back in coaching and community service. We would be honored to see Bill serve on KLSD Board of Education. His leadership and integrity will bring so much value and needed change to this great community of ours. He brings a wealth of service and knowledge from our community and district to the table." - Joe C.

"My family has had the honor and pleasure to know Bill Swertfager for over 13 years. Throughout this time, Bill has been a selfless, giving, and honest member of the Katonah Lewisboro community and has positively impacted hundreds of peoples lives within and outside of our town. Two of my son's were blessed to have Bill as their wrestling coach in the youth program and throughout high school. Bill was more than just a wrestling coach to his athletes - he instilled many virtues into them by fostering respect for others and the importance of giving back while focusing on the significance of honesty and accountability. The impact that Bill had on my son Conor was immeasurable and he considers Bill his second father. What makes Bill special is the way he treats his athletes and the focus he puts on their individual needs. No matter what your athletic ability is, Bill's focus is to make the best young men on and off the mat. I fully endorse Bill as a candidate for the KLSD Board of Education, his commitment to others and his drive to be the best in whatever he is involved with makes him the ideal asset for your district." - Brian M.

"Bill Swertfager is one of the most upstanding individuals I have had the pleasure of knowing and I have known Bill almost my entire life. I firmly believe, he would be a valuable addition to the Katonah Lewisboro school board. He has used his positivity, dedication, and abounding enthusiasm to give to back to the community he has lived in for decades. Bill’s background as a parent, local small business owner and High School wrestling coach has given him the opportunity to evaluate the needs of the school district from a unique perspective. The number one thing about Bill Swertfager is that he truly cares about the Katonah Lewisboro community. I have heard countless stories of how he has personally helped so many struggling kids navigate to a better spot through participation in wrestling. Bill knows that most kids just need a sense of purpose, a community to support them and a feeling of belonging to hit their stride. He wants to see every child achieve the best version of themselves and he believes the school system should support that goal to fullest extent possible. He strongly believes that primary school children should have a solid foundation of fundamentals in order to grow and expand in secondary school. Not every kid learns the same and each kid deserved to be met where they are. Too many of our children struggle academically, socially, or emotionally and the time is now to directly address these struggles before damage is done. If the Katonah Lewisboro community wants board members with enthusiasm, dedication and integrity then Bill Swertfager is a great choice!" - Noni C.

"With mental illness as one of the leading concerns for many parents these days, I cannot think of a more qualified person to elect to the Katonah Lewisboro BOE. Bill Swertfager has walked the talk in this regard over his 25 years developing one of the most respected wrestling programs in NY state. Bill Swertfager has done more than anyone in our town to support the mental health of of our youth. Through his dedication and hard work, he has inspired and has positively changed the lives of all under his care to be the best they can be." - Renee G

"Our family had the good fortune to have our son go through Bill Swertfager's wrestling program. Our son will be the first to tell you, he would not be the person he is today without the incredible program Bill created. Through Bills leadership, our son learned to respect himself and respect others, learned team work, learned how to win and how to lose and how to work toward a goal and never give up. Bill puts his heart and soul into whatever he does and I am certain he will give his all on the BOE prioritizing our children and their best interests." - Tom G