[January 9, 2009]
Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed January as School Board Recognition Month to build awareness and understanding of the vital function an elected board of education plays in our communities. The Mansfield ISD is joining with other districts throughout the state to thank board members for caring so much about the future of every child enrolled in our public schools.
“Our district is very fortunate to have a board made up of dedicated public servants who give countless hours for the betterment of our schools. They have the enormous job of governing the district where their actions and decisions affect the present and future lives of all our students,” said Vernon Newsom, MISD superintendent.
“Even though we are making a special effort during January to show appreciation for the board members, we recognize their work reflects a year-round commitment,” Newsom said. “Every day, they demonstrate strength and dedication by focusing on excellence for district programs, our teachers, and most importantly the students. They unselfishly contribute their time and talents toward the advancement of public schools, and represent a commitment to local citizen control and decision making in education,” he said.
School Board Function
A School Board's job is to establish a vision for the education program, design a structure to achieve that vision, assure schools are accountable to the community, and strongly advocate continuous improvement in student learning. That job entails an endless string of meetings and school functions to attend; reams of reports, agendas, proposals, and other information to read and study; and a host of difficult decisions to make.
Board members contribute hundreds and hundreds of hours each year leading their districts. Whether it is crafting policies, hiring top-notch administrators, listening to staff and student concerns, or recognizing outstanding programs, board members always keep their eyes on the goal of student success.
The time spent in board meetings represents just a small fraction of the hours school board members spend leading their districts. They also work hard at seminars and training sessions to keep abreast of the latest trends in educational leadership, are deeply involved in community activities, and spend many hours in the schools and at extracurricular events.
Board Appreciation
In January, join with others from throughout our district and state to salute the men and women who provide grassroots governance of public schools. Make a special effort to tell each school board member that his or her hard work has been noticed and is truly appreciated.
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The men and women serving Mansfield ISD are:
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Gale Moericke
School Board
President
Place 6
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Sandra Vatthauer
School Board
Vice President
Place 5
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Mike Leasor
School Board
Secretary
Place 7
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Terry Moore
School Board
Trustee
Place 1
Term Expires 2009
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Beth Light
School Board
Trustee
Place 2
Term Expires 2009
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Michael Evans
School Board
Trustee
Place 3
Term Expires 2010
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Dan Phillips
School Board
Trustee
Place 4
Term Expires 2010
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