School board needs better leadership

To the editor:

Irrational. Argumentative. Ineffective.

These words describe everyone’s favorite punching bag — the Mat-Su Borough School Board.

The Valley deserves better from an institution that plays a vital role in directing the fortunes of the state’s second largest district.

High standards for board members should be a no-brainer. After all, people demand the best from the folks they hire as baby-sitters, or even to watch their dogs. But when it comes to an institution that shapes the way schools shape young minds, the voters of the Valley seem content with a bunch of politicians incapable of getting on the same page.

Where did the high bar go?

This question should weigh on the minds of people who have the gumption to act — and it should push everyone to build a better school board.

Let’s face it: The public pays as much attention to school board candidates as an atheist to holy water.

But the time has come for the public to wake up. If not, Mat-Su has nothing to complain about when school board meetings devolve into a circus.

People want candidates who have experience in management, can see the big picture and tackle complex issues. They want intelligence, clear thinking and passion. Above all, any decent board with qualified people needs to heed the universal schoolyard law: Play well with others.

Think first before you cast your vote Oct. 6 for school board. Candidates supported by big business or political groups have no place in our children’s future and will only cause further confusion.

Travis Flynn

Wasilla