Editorial Board
alexandrianews.org
Voters in the central school board district of Alexandria go to the polls on Tuesday, Aug. 12 to vote for a candidate to replace Claire Eberwein who resigned. There are four choices. The campaign has been spirited. The candidates have been energetic. Many individuals have been involved, which is good for the school system and the city.
We believe that this election should be about the future and not the past. The school system has undergone two years of trauma. Despite the controversy surrounding the former superintendent and her contract, the system itself has stayed largely on-course to improving student achievement. The school board was able to pull itself together to find and select an outstanding school leader to serve as the next superintendent.
We believe that the best candidate should have a willingness to work hard, a good grasp of the issues and a positive outlook on the school system. We believe that the best candidate should project a positive image towards his or her fellow candidates and all current members of the school board. Finally, we believe that the best candidate should exhibit integrity.
By these measures, we are most impressed with Marc Williams. He is knowledgeable, committed and hard working. His three children in the system give him a wide perspective. When attacked, he has replied with the facts. When given the opportunity to attack others, he has refrained.
The new superintendent deserves a school board that is focused on him and the future. Marc Williams will fill that role best, and we urge voters to support him at the polls next Tuesday.