Archive: Around Town

Mark LewisI sense that May 15, 2007 will long be remembered in the annals of Lansing history as a turning point in terms of educational progress. The majority voting public looked beyond a tough budget year to preserve the quality educational program for the community's young people.

The district's governance dynamic will change as well in the months to come as the voters selected two new board of education members. I have had the opportunity to interact with both Mike Cheatham and David Dittman during my months in Lansing. They are astute, dedicated Lansing residents who will bring fresh perspectives to the board. I wish them all the best as they assume these challenging public service roles.

The board and administration now have a golden opportunity to work together as a leadership team in perhaps a vastly more productive manner than has been the case in recent history. Much is to be accomplished on many fronts in this district. It can only be done through a strong commitment on behalf of the board and administration to work together in an environment of mutual trust and support. Other voices and perspectives must be engaged as well as the district continues on the path of ongoing academic improvement and fiscal accountability.

There are many stakeholder groups whose concerns and insights are critical to building support for the district and its goals. However, in the eyes of the public, accountability for achievement of those goals ultimately rests with the district's governance team, and, most notably, the superintendent of schools. To that end, I have appreciated the support that I received through good moments and bad during my months as superintendent. I trust that the next superintendent will enjoy that support as well. It is critical to preserving Lansing's reputation as a first class educational institution.

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