By Staff
In recognition of the untiring efforts of more than 4,000 school board members in Michigan, January 2006 is designated “School Board Recognition Month.”
Each year, school board members manage a total education budget of $12 billion and make decisions that affect 1.7 million K-12 students throughout the state.
They face tough public scrutiny, difficult financial times and increased pressure to improve student achievement.
It is through their voluntary work that the job of governing Michigan's school districts falls.
School board members invest countless hours from their already busy personal lives to make the tough decisions about budgets, personnel, curriculum and other matters to help improve our schools.
This year's theme, “School Board Members Make Stars Out of Students,” is reflected in a proclamation from Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm and a resolution from the Michigan State Board of Education, naming January as School Board Recognition Month.
The governor and board note that this year's celebration “reflects the efforts of thousands of men and women whose actions and decisions help to shape the education and future of our next generation, and provides an opportunity to build stronger relationships between the men and women who champion the cause of public education.”
School Board Recognition Month is a national observance, co-sponsored by the Michigan Association of School Boards and the National School Boards Association.
Be sure to thank the members of your Cassopolis Public Schools: President Christine Locke, William Loux II, William Bosler, Gary Solloway, Kevin Richardson, Charlene Lee and Sue Horstmann and Edwardsburg Public Schools Board of Education: President Birdella Holdread; Douglas Stickney; Phyllis Manning Howe, Dale Blunier; John Feil; Michael Gordon and Edward Patzer for their service.