Nelson, Clark and Gabel for Linn-Mar school board

When considering how to spend my four votes in the upcoming Linn-Mar School Board election, a variety of factors come to mind. It's important to have a mix of incumbents and newcomers to keep things balanced and fresh.

Based on their previous terms, Sondra Nelson and Clark Weaver are both open-minded, dedicated public servants who put oodles of time and energy into this voluntary post. Additionally, as former teachers in the district, they're well-versed with the millions of dollars in the budget, thousands of students in the schools, and hundreds of professionals in the buildings - having this familiarity is an invaluable asset that we should continue to leverage. It takes time to get acclimated with the inner-workings of the district, and to have them both return would be to all of our benefit.

As for the new, Bob Gabel would be an excellent addition, not only because he's expressed this interest before and obviously has a desire to serve, but also, he has two young children in school so he's got skin in the game.

All three candidates have impressed me with their desire to continue the tradition of excellence at Linn-Mar, and as a former teacher and school board member myself, I wholeheartedly endorse Nelson, Clark, and Gabel for these very important positions - I hope you will too!

Rene Gadelha

Marion