Archive: Opinions

I was delighted to hear that the Lansing School Board is considering making Acting Superintendent Chris Pettograsso's appointment permanent.  I am just as glad they are running her through an exhaustive application process with plenty of opportunities for the public to meet her and learn what she is about.  There has never been a time when Lansing needed consistant leadership more than now.  Keeping Pettograsso at the helm of the school district will do that and more.

When Steve Grimm resigned as Superintendent last Spring I thought, 'Oh no.  Another interim superintendent and then who knows?'  That's what Lansing had been getting for about a decade as superintendents came and went.  I believe the lack of consistent leadership really hurt the district in ways it is going to be recovering from for many years to come (don't get me started...).  When the board announced they were elevating Pettograsso from her position as Elementary School Principal it was like the sun peeking out from the clouds after a storm.  What a great idea!

I thought she was doing a great job as Principal, and I knew she felt comfortable working with teachers and staff.  I also knew that Grimm thought very highly of her as a creative and valuable member of his leadership team.  Putting her in the Acting Superintendent position would mean that initiatives Grimm and his team had set would still go forward, led by a person that parents, teachers, and students already knew and liked.

On top of that promoting from within shows a confidence in the people in our school system that has to make all school employees feel great.  I also thought the board made a great decision in making Christine Rebera the acting Elementary School Principal.  The district was lucky to have two accomplished administrators available to choose from.  I am also hoping Rebera will get the Principal's position for keeps if Pettograsso is hired as Superintendent.

Since her appointment Pettograsso hasn't just sat back and steered the ship passively on a course that Grimm set.  She has put her own stamp on district policy, starting a school advocacy initiative and actively working with the Town on initiatives to increase the tax base that, it is hoped, will mitigate severe cuts in tax revenues and local tax rises that have become untenable.  It should also be noted that she moved her two children into the Lansing Schools this year, showing her belief in Lansing's educational excellence and a commitment to the community.

I am hoping that as many people as possible will show up at the presentations that are open to the public, especially the budget community forum at 6pm in the high school cafeteria March 18th that will start with her Superintendent presentation.  And I am hoping that as many people as possible will give input to the Board of Education, yea or nay.  For myself, it's a yea.  I think this is one of the best ideas the board has had in a very long time.

Since the Star's inception we have steered away from endorsing political candidates.  But keeping Pettograsso in the Superintendent's chair is such a good idea that we are making an exception.  In the interim she has proven to be a great fit for the district, willing to make a long term commitment, and work creatively and respectfully with the Lansing community.  That's great for the community, and really great for kids.

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