Sisters has choices in school election

Serving on the Sisters School Board is a significant commitment. In many ways, the schools are the centerpiece of the community, and stewardship of their future is a profound trust. The community is fortunate to have multiple candidates willing to step up and volunteer the time and energy to do that vital work.

Kay Grady is running unopposed and Justin Durham's opponent has withdrawn from the race, leaving only two of the open seats contested.

Voters should return current chair Don Hedrick to the board in Position 1. Hedrick has served the district well, not only on the board, but also in leading the facilities committee. He has kept a steady hand on the tiller through some very challenging times and has a proven ability to lead a diverse board.

In the Position 3 race, businessman and active supporter of Sisters schools Melvin Herburger is running against early childhood educator and advocate Edie Jones. Voters would be well-served by either choice.

Herburger's spirit of service, entrepreneurial outlook and experience and collegial temperament would make him a worthwhile addition to a strong board.

Jones has the edge in experience and background and a perspective that would help the board integrate early childhood development into the broader aspect of education in the community. Passionate advocacy of a particular agenda is a double-edged sword; Jones will need to demonstrate a willingness to address a broad range of issues well beyond her immediate area of expertise.

Sisters has a strong tradition of volunteerism, reflected in an unusually competitive school-board race. Hopefully, those candidates who are not elected will find other ways to serve the community.

Jim Cornelius, Editor