I think a twenty some could get my vote if I know what they stand for and how they would handle the duties proper to a school board member, and what new ideas they would have for improving learning that goes on in the district.
I believe I would not vote for a twenty some without some educational experience beyond 'former student in district.'
I want minds together that know business operations, educational theory and practice, and perhaps at least one wise person in the area of buildings and grounds.
The board should be a resource to the district. I am all for young candidates if they have a vision, but they need to sell me on WHY they are an asset to the district.
They need to highlight their EXPERIENCE and VISION, and how it would make GCSD 9 a better place.
I am not voting change for change alone, but am eager to see some new blood address the SAME problems that we have been having.
Afterall folks, GOOD SCHOOLS will slow a population decline faster than a new factory coming in adding 1,000 jobs. Because the new factory will allow more people to afford to move away. Good schools give people a good reason to stay.
I want someone who can prove the theory wrong that good schools only exist in wealthier areas and that working class areas of the world, and areas with their share of the underclass can still somehow beat the trends.
It seems like it's not reality, but at least it's a good vision to have.
Are there places where there is poverty mixed in with working class and lower middle class where education is excellent?
Education is the only hope to beat the cycle -- if someone has a vision for us beating the trends which tell us that since we are not a high-income district that we will not be a high performing district?