Hank Waters Makes Tribune Endorsement Pick for Columbia School Board Race

By Hank Waters-Columbia Daily Tribune, March 28, 2018

Patrons of Columbia Public Schools will have satisfying choices April 3 for the district board of Education.

We should be grateful to the five candidates who are standing for election. Over many years I have developed great respect for people willing and eager to serve, particularly in local unpaid positions like members of the school board. The election process is rigorous enough, but nothing compared with the responsibilities of actual service in office week after week, and year after year. Bless them for doing these important chores for the rest of us.

This year five candidates are competing for two open seats.

I must say I was overjoyed to learn Teresa Maledy had decided to run. If anyone among us qualifies as a commendable public citizen, Teresa is it. For several years I have served with her on the Stephens College Board of Trustees, including her term as chair. Simply stated, Teresa is an exemplary member with a keen awareness of how boards should function. She knows how boards should interact with executive officers. She will improve the performance of any board she is on.

Her interest in education at all levels is exemplary. For many years she has had children in Columbia Public Schools. She believes in public education and particularly in Columbia public education. For her innate public service skills and her particular interest in local education, Teresa Maledy is one of the most promising school board candidates I can imagine. Many thanks to her for agreeing to serve. She deserves election with a strong majority.

For the other seat long time teacher Susan Blackburn and incumbent board member Christine King are the best choices.

Blackburn is an excellent candidate with a long record as a Columbia public schools literacy teacher. When coupled with good collaborative skills, faculty experience is the right foundation for good board service. Susan Blackburn fits this mold. She is smart and has very good communications skills.

Christine King has served for nine years on the board. Experience is her long suit.

In this election I like Teresa Maledy and Susan Blackburn, two exceptional candidates we are fortunate to have in the race.

HJW III