I thought I would have a bit of fun on my last blog and highlight some 'lessons' about this process of running to serve on our school board. Last year, I ran as a write-in candidate and this year, I've taken it a step further by putting my name formally on the ballot for consideration.
A first lesson that I've learned is that I believe our school leadership is capable and should be believed-in. By leadership, I do mean folks from the top to the bottom. Our educators have a love for their students -- and this is something I know I take for granted in them. I've experienced this selflessness in educators' treatment of my foster children and I've heard other stories. I think the pieces are largely in place to make something really exciting happen for our children. The really exciting piece must come from our community dreaming big. Secondly, I've learned that our district's patrons cannot and should not be cookie-cuttered into one or two categories. We have students of all socioeconomic status. By supporting and asking folks to vote for Proposition 2, I'm well aware of the real ramifications and sacrifices that this will take on behalf of many of our district residents who have limited incomes. It's incredibly easy to live in our (my) middle-income bubble. After canvassing and visiting folks -- all of our kids deserve the same education that provides them a real means of living out their dream. Public education has allowed me to live into mine. Related to this second lesson is that in our world today, we must provide students with options. Unfortunately, these options cost money. From visiting with teachers, district patrons, and understanding how diverse our student population is, we must continue to grow in the opportunities our students have to carve their pathway to adulthood. A Mizzou education isn't for every one of our children. As a district, we must encourage our teachers and administrators to identify areas where we need to think creatively to provide students new learning opportunities that are post-secondary. I have a confession. I'm a people-pleaser who has difficulty saying 'no.' It's just who I am. I recognize it and try to own it. What does that have to do with running for school board? It's made me recognize that I must form (educated) opinions and be able to defend them. We are in a time in politics where conversations with those who disagree with your positions is a rarity. However, in my conversations of when people may disagree with something I have said, I've been encouraged by the civility and respectful nature in which the conversations have taken place. More of this needs to happen. Maybe this has happened because we're a small community. Maybe because we're in the Midwest. Regardless of why it's happened -- I feel hopeful that our community can continue to come together for our children and students. Lastly, I've felt incredibly humbled throughout this process. Many more people seem to know of or heard of me than I know of them. Mostly, they tell me that they've heard good things. I'm just a guy who wants the very best for your children, grandchildren, and all of our students. The unknown of tomorrow is scary and a little unnerving because I'm very competitive and always want to be the winner. :) That said, I am grateful for each of you who have read these blogs, shared them, and given me support throughout the last two years of getting to know our community better. This is the community I wanted to be a part of, the community I'm proud to call home to. Tomorrow, as you go into the ballot-box, I ask for your vote for the Hallsville Board of Education. Thank you for the consideration.
1 Comment
Lori Leer
4/3/2017 05:59:37 pm
Thank you Craig for running . We are excited to have you represent our schools. We realize this is a huge sacrifice and our community is honored to have your professionalism and sincerity of heart. Best wishes for you tomorrow .
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AuthorHallsville resident. Foster Parent. School board member. Politico. Jesus Follower. Cardinals Fan #MizzouMade Archives
June 2020
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