Letters to the Editor

Editor’s note: This letter was written in response to the East County Observer’s endorsement of Manatee County School Board District 2 candidate Dave Miner.

+ School Board candidate refutes endorsement
Dear Editor:
I believe that to change our school system, we need new individuals to step forward and lead. I believe that it is incumbent upon each generation to take ownership of, and work to improve their communities. I am running for School Board because I believe I am the best candidate to make changes and improve our students’ education.

I am a teacher, having worked in a portable at Lakewood Ranch High School since 2003. I worked in the Florida Legislature and U.S. Congress prior to returning home to teach. I am the only candidate with a policy background and the practical experience of working every day on the front lines of our education system.

We need a new direction in our Manatee County schools. We have to hold accountable our administration, as well as our teachers. We must transform the way we deliver education, starting with kindergarten through third grade. We have to free our students and teachers from a “one size fits all” curriculum.

We must create a budget system that funds our students and classrooms first and our bureaucrats and consultants last.
And lastly, we must embrace technology in our classrooms in a way to expand learning, not simply ban it.
I am running because I believe we must do better for our children. If elected I would be the only person on the School Board with modern classroom experience. It is time to bring the classroom to the boardroom. I am Robert Moates and I am asking for your vote on Aug. 14.
— Robert Moates, Candidate for Manatee County School Board