After a year on the Shaker School Board, Id like a 3-year term

To the editor,

A year ago, I was elected to fill a one-year term on the Shaker Regional School District School Board representing the towns of Belmont and Canterbury. At that time, I chose to run for the one year term that was open rather than the three year term. I believed that to be the best choice at the time to allow me to gain a better understanding of what was involved in the commitment and to get to know the other members of our School Board. It has been a very enjoyable year!

I have always made time to be involved in our schools and community. My time on the School Board this past year has merely strengthened my commitment to both. I have had the privilege to be a part of the new superintendent search and hiring process, and to serve on both the Buildings and Grounds and Wellness Committees. As part of these committees, I have assisted in the energy grant project that will bring numerous money saving initiatives to our facilities; the beginning stages of an additional practice field for athletics; and assessment and future implementation of healthier food choices for our students.

Working in partnership with other board members, administrators, and staff has been a great experience and has only reaffirmed my belief that good things are happening at Shaker. New and creative ideas come out of our subcommittees to enhance the student experience, save the taxpayer money, and gain more involvement from parents and residents of our two communities. Occasionally, there are tough decisions to be made and/or issues to be dealt with; however, I believe that we work collectively and take all points of view into consideration before making those decisions.

As a result of a very positive year, I am committed to run for re-election to the SRSD School Board and am asking for your support for a three year term. This will allow me to continue to actively participate and contribute to the wonderful progress we are making in so many areas to better the educational experience for Belmont and Canterbury students.

I encourage you to vote on March 18th at the Annual Meeting or by obtaining an absentee ballot available starting February 18th. Stop by to see Mrs. Kruger in the Office at Belmont Middle School to complete an absentee ballot and show your support for my reelection. I am always available to hear your feedback or to discuss your concerns regarding our school district and may be reached at 524-2782.

Thank you for your support and shared interest in the success of the Shaker Regional School District.

Gretta Olson-Wilder

Belmont