Hassler: Transparency and integrity needed in SUSD School Board race
Posted
Drew Hassler | Scottsdale
As a graduate of Arcadia High School, a Scottsdale small business owner, and father of two elementary students in SUSD, I have a proven vested interest in the success of our community and schools. I decided to run for a seat on our local school board because of my commitment to strengthening our city and local public schools.
As one of three candidates running for the “Just Be Honest” team, I want to be transparent about my experience. From the beginning, a “Protect SUSD” campaign team member purchased several website domains and social media handles, including my personal name, to hinder me.
Then, we witnessed Protect SUSD campaign signs erected on streets weeks before they were supposed to, yet the City of Scottsdale allowed it. Next, Protect SUSD yard signs were installed on Arcadia complex school grounds for parent curriculum night. I spoke to each principal and the superintendent about how political campaign signs did not belong on our campuses, yet some remain.
We have chosen to keep our campaign signs off school properties because we don't believe our schools should be used for political purposes in any way.
Most recently, the Independent published their first round of SUSD candidate interviews, accidentally leaving off my responses even though they were confirmed received. In the same week, the Independent also ran an opinion piece from one of the Protect SUSD candidates when the editor told us they were not accepting articles from school board candidates during the election cycle.
It's important to ask ourselves, what are these people trying to protect?
My commitment to integrity, honesty, and accountability is unwavering. If you share these values and want them upheld on the SUSD board, I urge you to vote for me, Drew Hassler, along with Gretchen Jacobs and Jeanne Beasley on Nov. 5. Learn more at susdstrong.com.
Editor’s note: While letters from candidates were not permitted during the primary, that has been altered during the General Election season. This fact has been noted in all such letters that have been published. Drew Hassler is a candidate for the SUSD Governing Board. The Scottsdale Independent allows candidates to submit one letter during the election season. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
