If they were handed pads and sticks, the field of contestants for the Austin Public School Board election could nearly make a pro hockey team – three lines and two goalies.

Friday, September 10, 1999

If they were handed pads and sticks, the field of contestants for the Austin Public School Board election could nearly make a pro hockey team – three lines and two goalies. Some high school teams could wish to boast those numbers.

It’s encouraging and rewarding to see the sheer numbers of people coming forth to run in the election – 17 people for four seats. All four encumbents have decided they still have plenty to offer, and 13 other people have come forth with new approaches and ideas.

Austin has always been a town which cares about the education of the students here, from providing for the needs of special education kids to making sure students with high potential are continually challenged and uplifted.

It is to be hoped that from this field of 17, Austin voters can find four who will best serve the students and parents of the town. There are many areas of concern for parents, be it their children’s health and safety while at school, or opportunities beyond the classroom for children to get the most out of their school experience.

In the coming weeks voters will come to know the candidates and their agendas, and on Nov. 2 will make their choices. In the meantime, the 17 people who came forward probably didn’t do so for the $3,600 yearly paycheck. These people, whom it is to be hoped have the best interests of the students of Austin at heart, are to be commended for being willing to share their time and efforts.