On Tuesday, May 19th, district residents will vote for three seats on the Rome City School District Board of Education. The highest vote-getter will serve one five-year term, and the second and third-highest vote-getters will each serve one three-year term. On the ballot are Suzanne Carvelli and Jeff DeMatteis up for re-election, and Rocky Capponi and Felicia James-Williams, both seeking a first term. Meet the candidates running for the 2026-2027 school year:
Suzanne Carvelli
I write today to ask for your support to represent our community on the RCSD Board of Education. Serving on the BOE for the past 3 years has been an honor and a responsibility I take very seriously. As someone who has lived my entire life here in Rome, I am deeply invested in the success of our community. I have remained involved in many community activities by volunteering on several boards, particularly those focused on youth. These experiences have only strengthened my belief that investing in our youth is key to the strength and future of our entire community.
Throughout my tenure on the BOE, I have worked to support policies and initiatives that expand opportunities for all students. I understand the challenges that our schools are facing as fiscal and social roadblocks present. My past experiences and 16-year tenure representing RCSD on the Madison-Oneida BOCES board guides me to contribute thoughtfully to decisions that impact educational quality, fiscal responsibility and student outcomes. I have developed a knowledge base of career and technical programs which I believe are essential in preparing students for a wide range of future pathways – be it college, skilled trade or direct entry into our workforce.
I am seeking a second term because there is still so much more to accomplish. I am motivated to continue to see our district grow, adapt and thrive in a changing landscape. I believe that Rome is on the threshold of an exciting growth opportunity with new businesses deciding to locate within our community. I would be honored to continue serving and to build on the progress we have made together.
Thank you for your continued support and trust. Please vote on Tuesday, May 19th!
Jeff DeMatteis
I moved to Rome in 2007 after accepting a position at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). Currently, I serve as the Test Lead, where I oversee all aspects of testing for manned and unmanned (drone) flight and ground tests. I also lead the AFRL STEM Outreach program, in which I organize and execute all of the AFRL STEM Summer Camps, AFRL Challenge Competition, and collaborate with many school districts in the area, including those in Rome.
I have served on the Rome CSD BOE since November 2022 and have learned a lot about a school board member’s roles and responsibility in my 3.5 years on the board, including setting district policies, approving the budget, and the oversight and hiring process of the Superintendent. I am honored to be part of such a great team and I hope to continue contributing to the great work that is going on in the district.
I am an active member of Redeemer Church Rome Campus. Our church has organized many community outreach programs, including food distribution and providing backpacks with supplies for Bellamy Students. I also teach Sunday School lessons for students in grades K-5 and lead a weekly Bible study with my wife.
From 2012 to 2023, I was involved with the Rome American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), where I coached my children’s teams and sometimes multiple teams simultaneously. I served on the AYSO Board for 7 years, holding the position of Regional Commissioner for most of that time. In this role, I oversaw all of the operations, including registration, team forming, volunteer coach recruitment, scheduling, referee assignments, field preparation, coordination with the town of Lee, and equipment purchases.
Thank you for your vote!
Rocky L. Capponi
As a devoted parent of a pre-k student set to join this fall and advocate for a current 4th grader, I've had the privilege of witnessing the unwavering dedication of our teachers, who bravely face formidable challenges head-on. From sagging morale and inadequate administrative support to pressing safety concerns, it's crystal clear that our educators are the unsung heroes navigating significant obstacles. Issues like school reconfiguration, insufficient special education services, the Staley resolution, RFA stadium, and the looming max cap taxes that will impact us for the next 5-7 years demand immediate attention, as they directly affect our children's educational journey. Rome, a city steeped in history and tradition, has the immense potential to thrive, and together, we can forge a brighter future for our students, educators, and community. Let's shatter our reputation as underperformers in the area and state and rise to the challenge, proving we are a place where we can truly flourish. Now is the moment to rally behind our teachers, uplift our schools, and prioritize the well-being of our children, who are navigating these challenges. I'm committed to showing up, putting in the work, and fighting tirelessly for the betterment of our kids and educators.
Felicia James-Williams
I was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. In 2004, my husband and I moved to Rome, NY, which we've been proud to call home ever since. I earned a bachelor’s degree in social science from the College of New Rochelle and began pursuing my Master's degree shortly thereafter. While I did not complete the graduate program, my educational journey provided a strong foundation for a fulfilling career in human services and meaningful community involvement.
In 2009, I began my career with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). I currently serve as a Program Administrator for a day habilitation program that supports 52 individuals with developmental disabilities. I lead a dedicated team of 21 staff members who work daily to provide quality care, meaningful engagement, and support.
Beyond my professional role, I am actively involved in my community. I teach Sunday School at Kingdom Harvest Apostolic Church in Rome and serve as the 1st Vice President of the Rome Branch of the NAACP. I’m also a proud member of the African American Heritage Association, where I help celebrate and preserve the rich history and contributions of our community.
I am a mother to a junior at Rome Free Academy and an aunt to a recent graduate at the same school. As a parent and family member, I am deeply invested in the success, safety, and well-being of our students. I believe that when we support and uplift our youth, we strengthen the future of our entire community.
Join us on May 12th at 6:30 p.m. in the RFA small auditorium for Meet the Candidates Night. Community members will have the opportunity to hear from each candidate running for Board of Education.