Student success important to Laverty

To the editor:

Many of us forget how important the work of the local school board is and the influence it has, from budget oversight to hiring a superintendent and making sure all students have the resources to succeed in their education.

The challenges aren't always easy, but there is one leader I have known for many years and would encourage you to vote for on Sept. 8 - John Laverty is that candidate.

John and his wife are active parent volunteers in their children's schools. He is dedicated to making sure all students achieve to the best of their abilities. At the same time, he knows resources are limited. He and others have worked to encourage public/private partnerships within the community to support our students and schools. The amount of volunteer hours in our schools is a testament to our community and its value of education.

During his time on the school board, Laverty has been part of eight years of balanced budgets. There's also more transparency than ever, from Facebook to Twitter, board meetings on the Internet, coffee sessions with board members, and every check written by the district is on their website. And I know from firsthand experience, he will follow-up when you have a suggestion or concern.

There's really too much at stake not to get out and vote. I hope you'll cast your vote for Laverty.

Lora Summerwill

Cedar Rapids