Cook County News Herald

Resigning school board member encourages participation




As stated in the November 30 Cook County News-Herald, I’ve resigned my District 3 position on the ISD 166 School Board as of December 6. Now I write to inform and encourage potential applicants to apply to fill the remaining year of my term and then run for office in the November 2014 election.

The process is easy. Simply notify Board Chairperson Jeanne Anderson at 370-7901 or jeannea@boreal.org or call the district office at 387-2271, ext. 606 for Erika Ternes, district office specialist, to express your interest. Traditionally, the four members currently serving on the board will interview applicants and appoint their chosen candidate. The board will probably try to complete this process before its January 2014 organizational meeting. A school board’s primary responsibilities are to: . Set the vision and goals for the district . Adopt policies that give the district direction and set priorities to achieve its goals . Hire and evaluate the superintendent . Adopt and oversee the annual budget . Manage the collective bargaining process for employees of the district

As I mentioned in my resignation letter, one should not believe this is a “thankless job.” It may be demanding and frustrating at times, but there is great reward in feeling you are making a positive difference. Sometimes you will hear actual words of thanks for “doing what you do.” If you would like more information about this position, contact Chairperson Anderson (see above) or Superintendent Beth Schwarz at 387-2271, ext. 612 or bschwarz@isd166.k12. mn.us. I, too, am willing to share my experience with you. Call 387-1729 or msanders@boreal.org.

Finally, I would like to express my belief that our school district is at an exciting time, beginning long range planning. I encourage you to enter into this changing future affecting our most precious resource, our children. You would be working with some fine, qualified, and enjoyable folk in this “adventure.”

Mary Sanders
Grand Marais



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