The Crusader Newspaper Group

Endorsements for Gary School Board of Trustees

Four of the seven seats on the Gary Community School Board are on the November 8 ballot. With the Gary School system fighting for its survival it is important that those seeking this position are aware of the tremendous responsibilities they are undertaking.

They will not only have to work together for the sake of the school system, they will have the task of building relationships with the community stakeholders.

The Gary Crusader recommends the following candidates for the Gary School Board of Trustees.

At-Large Willie Cook

Willie Cook
Willie Cook

Willie Cook will bring thirty-eight years of experience to the Gary School Board. As a classroom teacher, principal and administrator, Cook has the experience needed to lead the school system during these times of extreme difficulty. He will bring to the board the leadership needed to make the tough decisions and the visionary leadership that can make the school system better. Cook pledges to work with financial advisors to avoid additional financial burdens on taxpayers. He also will strive to provide greater financial accountability and transparency by listening to all stakeholders before making decisions. Cook will work alongside fellow board members to ensure greater student success and earn the trust of the community by making the best decisions for students.

First District Carlos Tolliver

Carlos Tolliver
Carlos Tolliver

With over 45 years of experience in public service to Gary youth as a teacher, administrator, union leader and activist, we feel that Carlos Tolliver is qualified to represent the First District on the Gary School Board. We believe Tolliver will be an advocate for fiscal transparency and accountability and will protect tax dollars by eliminating waste and misspending. He will work to ensure there is a plan for First District schools and students’ growth along with administrator and principal accountability. He is an advocate of individual student growth plans, STEM/AP curriculum; science career pathways from 6th through 12 grades, improved performing arts and athletic programs, and a resolution to the Emerson and Nobel School issues.

Second District Robert Campbell

Robert Campbell
Robert Campbell

Robert Campbell, unlike our other recommendations is seeking a second term on the school board. During his first term, the majority of the votes he cast were with students in mind. Not only is he dedicated to student achievement and success; he often volunteers his time at several schools. Although his method appears to be at times unorthodox, his motives appear to be pure when it comes to the education of Gary’s youth.

Fourth District Willie “Coach” Miller

Willie “Coach” Miller
Willie “Coach” Miller

Miller has been involved in a number of activities that relate to the positive growth and development of Gary’s youth. As a parent he is actively involved with the Banneker Middle School P.T.A. and also volunteers as the school’s basketball coach. Miller also serves as an adjunct business professor at Ivy Tech College. If elected, he will advocate for the expanding of vocational programs in the school. Miller is also calling for expanding a dual credit program for all students and favors increasing local arts involvement in the schools. Miller is calling for after school programs to combat childhood obesity and will work to have old school buildings repurposed or demolished.

 

 

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