Letter: Whitehead will serve with integrity

Under Richard T. Whitehead's direction as its superintendent, the Center Point School system successfully merged with Urbana Schools to become the fiscally sound school district we call CP-U. With him at the helm, our district was not only financially sound, but academically strong. Our small community continues to grow and many people who move here come because of the education we offer their children.

As superintendent, every decision Whitehead made came down to: 'Is it good for kids?” When teachers made a request, he didn't ask, 'How much will it cost?” (That would come next.) His first question was always, 'Is it good for kids?” If the answer was yes, and defendable from a researched base, he figured out a way to finance it without imperiling our budget.

Whitehead did not shy away from challenges if it would make a difference for the students we serve. That was the rudder by which he sailed our ship. I found Whitehead to be an inspiration. He proved to be an exemplar of integrity and dedication. I will be proud to have him represent me in Des Moines as my State Representative. I know he will serve his constituents with intelligence and heart.

Mickey Dunn

Center Point