As a father with three young children in elementary school within the Akron Public School system, I have a vested interest in the system taking advantage of all opportunities presented, but also making sure it is done in a prudent manner.
I believe my educational backround, which includes attending Akron Public Schools from Kindergarten through 12th Grade, working my way through college and graduating from the University of Akron with a degree in Business Administration/Finance, as well as my background of owning and operating a business within the City of Akron, gives me a very broad base of knowledge that will benefit the residents, businesses, and most importantly, the children of this community.
Though I believe that I have the knowledge and enthusiasm to do an excellent job for the community as a School Board member, I am also aware that it will take more than knowledge and enthusiasm. It will take hard work and an ability to build relationships with all board members, staff, and the community, so that the system will not handcuff itself.
Some hard decisions will need to be made. Is an operating levy needed, and if so, how much? If needed, do we ask for a large increase in property taxes now, sometime in the future, or split it up into multiple levies over time? How large of a bond issue will be needed to match the State for building construction and remodeling, and does the community want it? Is money the solution to improving the underperforming schools throughout the city, or is there another answer? These are tough questions.
What are we to do?
For starters, we need to:
* Increase parental involvement
*Have efficient school governance
*Have ongoing staff development
*Have challenging curriculum
*Have current technology in the schools
These are a few points I think the board, as a collective whole, can concentrate on to help improve our schools.
Please vote for me on November 6, 2001. Let me help bring unity to the school board for the benefit of the children in our community.
Thank you for your support.
Tim Miller
"The Kids' Candidate"
