Letter to the editor: Reelect dedicated board members in Plum

As vice president of the Plum School Board, I am proud to share several accomplishments that reflect our ongoing commitment to educational excellence, fiscal responsibility and student safety.

We continue to enhance our educational programs, with a current focus on strengthening the math curriculum.

We’ve hired several key personnel, including a special education director, a facilities director, multiple principals and additional teachers while not increasing our budget.

We’ve taken steps to improve student safety by installing cameras on and around school buses and launched the OPENGATE security system at our sporting events.

We secured $1.9 million in grants for renovations at the middle school. We completed bidding for the expansion and renovation of O’Block Elementary School, and we are currently $2 million under budget. This project will expand our space, enhance classrooms and provide improved facilities for special needs students.

Our board’s fiscal responsibility has led to a significant improvement in our bond rating, from BBB- just a few years ago to A today. This allows us to borrow at more favorable rates, saving taxpayer dollars. We continue to explore alternative financing options to reduce the financial burden on our community.

Our JROTC program has received national recognition and our administration is collaborating with neighboring districts interested in joining this initiative.

These achievements are a snapshot of the dedication and hard work of our board. There are three members up for election, Angela Anderson, Megan Chuderewicz and Beverly Purcell. I ask that you support them Nov. 4 so we can continue to provide our children a quality education in a safe environment.

Mark A. Stropkaj

Plum