Secretary & Treasurer Re-elected

Eighty-one members voted in the election of the SPTA secretary and treasurer. Every ballot had a candidate marked for each race, and the overwhelming winners were the uncontested incumbents, Gail Ryder and Jerry Hunter respectively.

Yet there were three write-in candidates with one vote each -- Jamie Watson, Kate Porter, and Julie Pitt. I share the confidence that their colleagues place in them -- I hope they will consider being candidates for president or vice president next year.

Gail Ryder's transfer to Dyer notwithstanding, the high school has a disproportionate share of the officers in the SPTA. The treasurer of the SPTA has been held by a high school teacher longer than I've taught in the district -- long enough for my hair to turn gray. With the exception of a single but critical term by Scott Patashnik (we are all still in your debt, Scott), one has to go back to Gail's time at Small School to find a president outside SPHS.

We're blessed right now with an exceptionally wise and experienced UniServ Director, Brian Kilroy. MEA is ready and willing to train and support anyone who wants to become an officer in the local. From my own perspective, more experienced folks (especially if they are spread throughout the buildings) will strengthen the organization tremendously. Consider this an early call for presidential and vice presidential candidates for next year.