According to the Center for Public Education, the role of school boards are, “a critical public link to public schools. Whether elected or appointed, school board members serve their communities in several important ways.
- First and foremost school boards look out for students. Education is not a line item on the school board’s agenda—it is the only item.
- When making decisions about school programs, school boards incorporate their community’s view of what students should know and be able to do.
- School boards are accessible to the public and accountable for the performance of their schools.
- School boards are the education watchdog for their communities, ensuring that students get the best education for the tax dollars spent.” http://goo.gl/xiXzRd
When using the definition above I applaud outgoing members Dick Austin and Bob Oberhauser for a job well done. Both placed students at the forefront of decision-making based on what the Mineral Point community values. Dick and Bob were transparent in their efforts and made fiscally sound decisions. It was my honor to work closely with both and I personally appreciate their time, willingness to serve students and staff, and individual talents toward making Mineral Point a better school district. Mostly, I will miss our friendship that was established over the past four years and I wish each health and happiness in the years to come.
A second appreciation goes to outgoing editor of the Democrat, Joelle Doye. Joelle covered board meetings for the community for the past eight years. Literally hundreds of times Joelle would listen quietly and report accurately the happenings of the Mineral Point School Board. I have found her reporting to be thorough, professional, and she is most approachable. It is for these reasons that I will miss Joelle as our editor but am pleased that Joelle is joining Mineral Point Schools as a staff member dedicated to enhancing our communication efforts and further engaging our community.
I look forward to meeting the next editor of our paper and rest assured I will continue the strong partnership between the Democrat and Mineral Point Schools.
Onward to 2015-2016!