When Dr. Mark Ciota first announced that he was running for School Board, I called and thanked him. Why? Because it is not often that someone with his intellect, professional responsibilities, leadership and management skills step forward to run for office. We need more Dr. Ciotas to step forward, not fewer, as was suggested by another board member recently. Dr. Ciota has proven to be an outstanding member of the Board and his leadership skills are clear as he has help guide the Board during some of the most challenging times as our economy and demographics shift.

About a month ago, a good friend told me that they were considering running for the District 241 School Board. My friend has some valid concerns, some I agreed with and some I did not, but they thought they could make a difference. I was excited, both for my friend and for our community, because I know that they could have a very positive impact on our learners. And at the end of the day, learners are what is important — not the Board or staff (union and nonunion) — but learners.

I was saddened to learn recently that my friend is no longer interested in running for the School Board. Why? Because of the personal nature of the call for Dr. Ciota to resign. We should all be sad, since my friend would and maybe still could be an outstanding addition to the Board.

 

Dan Dorman

Albert Lea