There is no day more appropriate than today to address the role of the School Board Trustee.
There are four (4) Boards of Education in Windsor. (An issue for a different blog post altogether!) There is the Public Board, the Catholic Board, the French Catholic and the French Public Boards. All Boards have Trustees elected from the Citizens. A voter only chooses a trustee(s) for one (1) Board.
When asked how people should choose which board to support, I ask where their taxes go. Then they are asked where there kids go to school or where they went to school. It's not much, but I hope it gives them an answer. In an aging city, there are lots of voters without children. Again, which Board receives their property taxes. No taxes? No problem. Pick a Board which aligns with your personal beliefs.
I always, always, always (not some of the time but always) encourage citizen participation where requested. In the odd situation, when electing a School Board Trustee truly causes you stress, don't pick one. Your ballot will not be spoiled if you choose not to elect an School Board Trustee. (Please call 311 to confirm. I have verified with 311 and the Clerk's Office.) This is a final resort!
A School Board Trustee brings parents' and the public's concerns to school board administration. They help shape the future of today's children. The role of the trustee is too important to just skip over! Vote, October 22!