Montemore: The critical importance of new school board members

While national elections tend to be the focus, local elections are what shape the communities we live in. Of critical importance are the new SUSD School Board members.

Our family has always been a strong supporter of public schools. My mother taught public elementary school in New Jersey for 38 years – all in the same classroom. My father served a term on our local school board. Our sons attended Cochise Elementary and Cocopah Middle Schools, with one graduating from Chaparral High School and one now a freshman.

Seeing my parents create strong connections with their community led me to contribute 15 years to ours as a local youth baseball coach in McCormick Ranch Little League and Cocopah Middle School, and as a volunteer board member and president of MRLL. Year after year, I have witnessed firsthand the strong bond between our schools, our community and the families they serve.

As a local Real Estate professional for over 23 years, I cannot overstate the significant relationship between strong public schools, community pride, and property value. New families moving into the SUSD boundaries are excited for their children to participate in this unique learning experience, while many resident parents with grown children look back on their time as an SUSD family with joyful memories.

Mike Sharkey, Donna Lewis and Matt Pittinsky embody the same spirit and enthusiasm. They are worthy of our strongest consideration this November.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.