What our schools are and what they can be

By Jim Martin

We are privileged to have five top-notch schools in our district. They are not perfect yet, but the schools are improving. I, along with the current Board of Trustees, will continue to work to achieve what our students and teachers deserve.

I currently serve as a Board Trustee and recently we conducted a random parent survey via the phone. The results of this survey showed that most parents are satisfied with the education their children are receiving. Our district received a "B+" overall. We know there are areas we can improve on and our board is addressing all of these issues. Besides the facilities issue, communication is one area we are working on improving. This October, we will undergo a communications audit, conducted by a communications specialist. We will find our weaknesses and improve upon them. We will find our strengths and expand them. It is important to all of us and to me to know everyone is involved in their student's education.

Our test scores are on the rise! This is something we are happy to tell and celebrate. Our teachers are doing their jobs and so are the students. We have adopted standards for each grade level and given a copy of these standards to each student and their parent/guardian. It is in print what students will be learning and what they will be expected to learn during their school year. Parents/guardians will know what is in store for the upcoming year and will be better able to speak with their student's teacher with any questions they may have regarding curriculum.

The current Board of Trustees is doing an outstanding job of making our 5 schools the best they can be. Our job is not over yet--it continues. I am honored to be a member of this board and hope to continue with our commitment to our students, teachers and parents to provide the best schools possible. I hope I can count on your vote November 7th.