Supports effective, efficient, fiscally responsible services

To the editor:

Hello, my name is Ray Michaelson and I am running for Seat G on the Mat-Su Borough School Board this October. I was born in Palmer and have lived in the Valley for 30 years and in Alaska for more than 50. My wife Jenny and I raised three kids in the Palmer area and have enjoyed all that the Valley has to offer in terms of recreation, employment and a great school district.

Throughout my professional life as a teacher, teen advocate, coach and juvenile justice administrator, I have worked with diverse groups of kids in a variety of programs, and I believe this background and experience would be of value to the school board and to the district.

I am running for this board seat because I believe in investing in the lives of our children and advocating for effective educational programming here in the Valley. In addition to these values, I will work hard to support four main cornerstones of education: teachers and support staff who work with our kids every day; the administration of our system; a challenging curriculum and a safe, positive learning environment. In addition to these important elements, I will work to support effective, efficient and fiscally responsible educational services.

I hope you will take time to learn more about me by visiting my website, raymichaelson.com, and support my run for school board, Seat G. Most importantly, please get out and vote on Oct. 1. Thank you.

Ray Michaelson

Palmer