Laverty demonstrates commitment to students

As a longtime resident of Cedar Rapids, I'm encouraged to see someone like John Laverty run for re-election to the Cedar Rapids school board. He and his wife have two children in district schools and have supported the schools and teachers over the years in many ways as parent volunteers. Laverty has dedicated his 20-year professional career to college admissions, helping students with access to higher education and career preparation beyond high school.

He has a clear understanding of what students need to succeed in the future. He believes in challenging them in core subject areas, like math and science, but is also committed to all the other areas that enrich a student's personal and academic life, including the fine and performing arts, languages and the humanities.

He is a positive and experienced leader we need and has helped the board navigate many challenges the past four years. He understands the importance of looking at new opportunities for partnerships to enhance what limited resources are available to support the core teaching mission.

He's a good listener, thoughtful and has represented the interests of all constituents in the community. The bottom line is he will do what's best for the students. I hope you'll give Laverty your support on Sept. 13.

Lora Summerwill

Cedar Rapids