We taught many of you or your relatives during our 35+ years teaching (and administering) in Lexington Richland Five. We continue to live in Irmo and we’re keenly aware of the changes that have occurred in our area and our schools over the years. We also have a vested interest in our school district- our grandchildren!
Catherine Huddle has represented Lexington County on our school board for nearly four years. During that time, she has consistently fought for what matters – teacher pay, administrative support for teachers, discipline, classroom focused funding, safety, facility updates in Irmo and spending tax dollars wisely.
As retired teachers and administrators, we can tell you that more teachers are not needed on our board. We have a PhD in Education running the day-to-day education functions in our district. He is the education expert and he doesn’t need more “cooks in the kitchen.” The board’s role is much more financial – setting the annual budget, approving the sale of bonds to raise money and setting property tax rates. Watch any board meeting where these responsibilities are discussed and it is readily apparent that most of the current board are ignorant when it comes to these key responsibilities.
We need people with FINANCE and business expertise on our school board. We need trustees who represent our community. Only through being transparent with our community can we come together to improve our schools. Catherine Huddle – and Ken Loveless – have a proven track record of doing just that.
They have our vote!
Penny and Jim Valek
