To the editor:

School boards play important roles in our public school system—they approve the budget, ensure the policies are in line with state statutes, and most importantly, are the voice of the community. The board members must listen to all stakeholders and seek the expertise of the professionals in our district. When it comes to our librarians and curriculum directors, respecting that they are experts in education is essential to the success of our schools. Our district employs a curriculum director who has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction and a librarian with a master’s degree in library science. We also have administrators, counselors, and teachers with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in addition to many hours of experience studying and researching how to implement the

state standards. As a parent of children who attend our schools, I trust these experts to make decisions that contribute to the ongoing success of our students in our district.

In the upcoming election on November 7, I will be voting to fill the four open seats with four candidates who respect and value the education and expertise of our district’s staff. Please join me in voting for Matt Seeger, Matt Bruns, Brandy Wentzler, and Mariah Ring.

Rebecca Ashby Bender