- By Anne Drake
- Opinions
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I have lived in Lansing all my life and attended school here from kindergarten to graduation. I have a good sense that the majority of our community wants to keep taxes down and still get the best education possible for ALL students. I have learned that I can't make everyone happy; even though I try, it just does not work that way. I just do what I feel in my heart to be right and I vote my conscience. I have twelve years experience on the board and I am a good listener and a fair person. The guidelines I try to follow are to look out for all children, stick up for what I believe in, and weigh everything that is presented to me before making a decision.
One of the major concerns for our district continues to be the budget. With the future hard to predict in a changing landscape of state financing affected by a troubled economy, and with the troubles of AES, we have to make doubly sure our dollars are spent wisely so our students receive the greatest benefit possible. The Board is looking at ways to ensure that our facilities are in good repair and that they provide the appropriate space for our students. With the community's approval, the district will need to find the most effective ways to accomplish that. We need to continually work to keep the communication door open so that we keep the community informed and receive their input, as well. In addition, we must make sure ALL students receive the very best education they can and that children are not slipping through the cracks or just being "passed" on. Also, we have to be mentors and role models for ALL children.
I thought that being on the school board for twelve years would be enough; however, the more I wrestled with whether to run for the Board again or not, the more I realized that my work is not done. It takes a person willing to stand up for what is right and just, and willing to listen to all sides. I do my best to be that person. I have grown tremendously while being a board member and continue to learn. During my twelve years on the board having ten Superintendents, eight Business Administrators, three High School principals, four Middle School principals, and five Elementary School principals, we have been through many transitions. Our current Leadership Team has provided stability and continuity over the last four years, and I can help provide that same level of stability and continuity on the Board of Education.
Being a board member is not an easy job; however, I am willing to put the time and effort into this position as I have demonstrated for the last twelve years, in order to ensure that the children of Lansing receive the best education we can give them.
Thank you for your continued support!
Anne Drake
Lansing, NY