I am supporting Steve Zach for re-election to the Oregon School Board. Steve is a veteran member and his experience and knowledge are important to the decisions our Board will be making in the next three years. The current Board is committed to its task but, in my estimation, needs the perspectives and depth of knowledge that Steve’s years of experience bring to the table.
Steve was on the board when I was middle school principal. I respected his work then and he has continued to earn my respect and praise. He also focused on policy decisions and never interfered in the administration of the building. Steve has always played a key role in strategic planning and has been instrumental in policy decisions involving student achievement. Being on the board involves a considerable investment of time. Steve’s commitment has never wavered as he is passionate about having a district in which all students can be successful. I would also like to emphasize that Steve is very fiscally responsible in allocating our tax dollars.
Our taxpayers recently passed an important school referendum. That process took eight years of planning and Steve was a strong leader in gaining a successful vote. This is a very pertinent example of the significance of Steve’s experience and knowledge. One of the strong leadership skills that I admire in Steve is that he has the knowledge and experience to ask the hard but important questions that are critical in Board discussions. In my experience, such questions drive better decisions.
Some of Steve’s other contributions are an emphasis on the role that a strong school plays in economic development in a community, a deep understanding of personalized learning, and an understanding of policies and practices that enhance the school environment for our children with special needs.
Some may say that experience can become a negative factor. That is definitely not the case with Steve. He still has the passion to serve our students, teachers, parents and administrators well. His experience is a strength and is critical to decisions to be made in the next three years. Diversity of backgrounds in board members is also important. If Steve is not on the board it will be comprised of several members with similar perspectives.
I encourage you to support Steve Zach. His experience is important to all aspects of our school community.
Steve Staton
Village of Oregon