Nine out of every 10 students in the United States attend public schools. Therefore, access
to high-quality public education is crucial not only for our children’s success, but for the
strength of our society. It takes a team of dedicated people – teachers, administrators, staff,
parents and other community members – to provide that education. The nine members of
our local school board are a key part of this team, making informed decisions that shape
our public schools.

January is designated School Director Recognition Month – a time for us to celebrate and
recognize the challenging and vital work boards do on behalf of our students, schools and
families.

On average, school directors devote up to 10 hours per month to the complex responsibilities
of board business, including adopting policy, voting on budgets, evaluating school security
issues and reviewing hiring decisions. The impact of the coronavirus pandemic has added an
additional challenge to school boards, as they determine how best to provide for the needs of
students and their families in this new environment. From navigating virtual board meetings
to supplying students with needed food and technology and during remote instruction,
boards were tasked with making critical decisions quickly with the best information available.
Board service is an unpaid position, and the majority of school directors cite their desire to
give back or contribute to public education as the main motivation for their service.
As locally elected officials, school directors are invested in their communities. They are our
neighbors, friends, local leaders, parents and engaged citizens.

 

During this month designated for recognizing these public servants, please take a moment
to express your gratitude to:

Mr. Robert Packer, President

Mr. Ronald Beilchick, Vice-President

Mrs. Jill Eckenrode, Treasurer

Mr. John Hardesty, Sr.

Mr. Richard Polenik

Mrs. Debora Tate

Mr. Ronald Larch

Dr. Paul Boston

Mrs Wendy Williams

The job they do ensures our schools continue to provide opportunities
for success for every student, even during unprecedented circumstances. Thank them for
advocating on behalf of our collective interest and for the benefit of our children.