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Smith: Hello, I’m running for a spot on Scottsdale’s school board

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My name is Rose Smith. I’m running for a seat on the Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board in the general election on Nov. 3, 2020, and I’m asking for your support.

Two years after founding Scottsdale, Winfield Scott founded Scottsdale School District. To my mind, this underscores the important connection this community has had to SUSD since its very roots.

SUSD serves a diverse community from north to south, east to west. Our diversity is what makes us strong and prepares our students to enter the global educational forum or world of work.

SUSD boundaries serve students from Scottsdale, Tempe, Arcadia, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix. Additionally, because of the strong employment opportunities we enjoy through our robust economy, we serve opened enrolled students whose parents work in our community, or those who value the programs and standard of excellence SUSD has known for over 100 years.

I am a first generation American. My family has lived within Scottsdale Unified School District boundaries since 1970. My grandchildren, currently SUSD elementary students, mark the third generation to attend what I consider to be Arizona’s most excelling district.

Unlike many other Arizona communities, families within SUSD have often been here for generations, raising our children in the same schools we attended and watching our community grow and prosper. Like many who love this community, I am invested in SUSD from grad to grandma.

The better part of my professional career has been in serving our youth.

Starting as a para-educator for special education, I moved up to the high school administration office and finally in SUSD’s district office as executive assistant for secondary schools. Additionally, I spent several years with City of Scottsdale in the amazing Youth and Family Services department.

As my daughters, both teachers, were growing up, I not only worked in the elementary school but volunteered in programs such as Great Works of Art, Women in History, and have held leadership positions in the PTOs. Since retiring, I have volunteered at Cocopah Middle School and my husband Dirk and I have helped support the MLK Voices Program.

My application to serve with the Department of Education’s Professional Practices Advisory Committee came as a result of my involvement, with other community members, in ensuring that the leadership of SUSD was free of unethical practices.

Additionally, I was pleased to be able to volunteer time to Yes to Children to help pass the recent M&O override.

I believe my experience in the public-school forum and as an engaged community member qualifies me a knowledgeable and experienced candidate for the position of governing board member. Public service is both an honor and a privilege.

The position of Governing Board member is a voluntary post. The reward comes from ensuring that our students receive the best education we can give them. Strong public schools build strong communities.

Please support me in serving the community I love by electing me to the position of SUSD Board Member. For more information, please visit Rose4SUSD.com.

Editor’s Note: Rose Smith is a Scottsdale resident and campaigning to be a candidate for Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board.