As a way to inform our readers about the candidates, Patch asked the two candidates for state representative in the Essex 14th precinct five questions that focused on topics ranging from the state budget to school funding.

Here is Question 5:

Towns are operating on tight budgets, and North Andover is relying on federal money to keep its school budget intact. Will you push for more local aid, less local aid, or leave local aid the same?

David Torrisi (D)

I have always been a strong advocate for our schools. Education is essential to preparing students for the larger world. During this legislative session, I voted in support of an education reform package targeted at improving underperforming school districts. This law creates a framework for addressing schools that are not keeping pace, and that ultimately earned our state more than $300 million in federal funding to be infused in the education of our children. I will continue to fight for the greatest amount of funding possible to go to our schools.

Kevin Begley (R)

North Andover contributes approx.$65 million in state income taxes
and receives about $8 million in local aid.The local aid formula needs
to be changed now.