This upcoming election will determine the majority direction of the SUSD Governing Board at a critical time for our schools. I am running with Mike Sharkey and Donna Lewis to bring experienced leadership to the board. We must move away from the distrust that distracts us from pursuing educational excellence.
We all have reasons to care about our neighborhood schools. Two of my children attend our district schools, while a third attends Brophy. I care that all children have access to a top-notch education. I served on the site councils of my neighborhood elementary and middle schools. With my youngest, I am also active in Scouting and a proud Eagle Scout.
I’m a homeowner who recognizes that the quality and reputation of our school district matters to our property values and economy. I’m also a business entrepreneur who employs graduates of SUSD and relocates new hires with children to live in Scottsdale.
Today’s challenges require experienced leadership. In 1997, I co-founded and led the EdTech company Blackboard, while more recently I built Parchment, a Scottsdale-HQ company that also serves schools and universities (including SUSD). Through building these businesses and serving on education boards, I have experience with large operating budgets ($100mm+), and employee teams (1,000+). In between Blackboard and Parchment, I earned my Ph.D. in Sociology of Education and taught as an assistant professor at ASU.
The future of our school district is uncertain. The district has endured catastrophic turnover with 13 superintendents serving in the 14 years preceding our current leadership. I cannot point to any successful company where the CEO changes with such alarming frequency. Our district needs support, earned trust and consistency.
That is why I am running for SUSD. And that is why I hope to earn the community’s vote.
Matt Pittinsky is running for the SUSD Governing Board. The Scottsdale/Town of Paradise Valley Independent offers candidates the opportunity to submit one letter during the election. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
