HEARN: As seen by an ex-trustee

I am writing in support of Mr. Tom Hearn for school trustee representing Zone 5. This was the area I represented on the board for 10 and a half years.

Mr. Hearn will bring to the board exactly what is needed. He is all about what is good for the kids. It doesn’t matter what political party he is affiliated with. It is about the kids and their parents.

An effective trustee must have certain qualities. Examples include:

• Fiscal conservatism — money has to be allocated wisely. Programs that promote academic excellence must be the top priority.

• Policies must be crafted and considered carefully and with the input of the community as a whole. Patrons must have a say.

• Trustees should not try to micromanage; this is what the district’s administrators are charged with.

• Educational research proves that when the board feels that all children are capable of learning, only then does the achievement gap begin to close.

• Trustees should not treat any classification of their staff as the enemy. It is only with collaboration can the district be successful.

• The humanities must be given valid consideration. The days of “Art on a cart” must not return.

• All stakeholders in the community must be involved is such issues as long-range planning, curriculum and transportation.

• The district’s administrators should be trusted, consulted and believed.

Mr. Hearn has served on governor-appointed boards and commissions under both democratic and republican governors. As a professional counselor, he brings a unique understanding of people in need to the district. I have spent several hours with Tom and have faith and trust in him. I wholeheartedly endorse Tom Hearn for trustee from Zone 5.

H. SID FREDRICKSON

Former Zone 5 Trustee

Coeur d’Alene