During the last several weeks, there has been some consternation around the relationship between city and school district leaders.
I want to be clear, I fully believe city and school leaders need to, should be, and are expected to be on the same page on issues. During the last several months, to put it lightly, the city and school's relationship has been tense. In the fall, the city (which shares in the responsibility of funding traffic control folks) unilaterally decided to grant a pay increase to the crossing guards. The intention was good: to ensure crossing guards where there everyday. What was wrong? The city granted this and expected the district to go along with them -- instead of having a dialogue. So, in this time where the district is pinching pennies -- the city forced the district to spend an additional several thousand dollars by agreeing to a pay increase for crossing guards even though the district and city jointly provide this service. This expenditure probably should have been agreed upon, but the tactics and lack of conversation prior to the decision by city leaders wasn't appropriate. Let's have some conversation together before unilaterally forcing each other into decisions, shall we? In November, the city of Hallsville had two tax questions (page 8) on the ballot. I do not live within the city limits and was unable to vote on these issues. That said, as an advocate for the long-term success of our schools, it is a bit frustrating to hear of those who wanted city sales tax increases in November who are also opposing Proposition 2 due to it increasing their taxes. Quite frankly, the schools and city have some of the same limitations and funding concerns and both the November and Prop 2 proposals equally need careful consideration. However, if I'm honest about this situation, it appears (on the surface) to be hypocritical for folks to be okay with the tax increases of November but be opposed to Proposition 2. These two situations highlight the need for increased communication and relationship building among city and school leaders. There's no excuse for not being on the same page in such a small community in which we live. If elected, I will pursue having regular individual meetings with city leaders to keep an open dialogue on mutual concerns and priorities. Our city should want the schools to succeed and our schools should want the city to be successful. We (the schools and city) mutually benefit and compliment each other. Don't get me wrong, I believe that some tension is good, but the tension of the last 6-9 months has not been healthy. Because I'm also passionate about following our political system, I would also plan on being in regular contact with our Boone County legislative leaders in the Missouri General Assembly. It's important that our other elected officials know and understand that their lawmaking policies will directly impact our activities at the school district level. With the General Assembly considering legislation surrounding charter schools, funding, required coursework/training, and more -- our Board should remain tuned-in to the legislative process. Tomorrow: Will Be A Surprise!
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AuthorHallsville resident. Foster Parent. School board member. Politico. Jesus Follower. Cardinals Fan #MizzouMade Archives
June 2020
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