Soapbox: Pay attention to the school board election

We have been involved in public education in Fort Collins for more than 30 years. Mike Liggett is a former PSD school board member and board president, as well as Poudre River Public Library District board member and president. Mark Hanson has been a public school teacher in secondary and higher education, and both of us have been involved in community affairs for many years.

One of the most important aspects of any community is its educational system. It forms the basis for democracy — educated voters make better decisions. It forms the basis for economic vitality — skilled, educated workers are more productive.

It’s likely why you chose to live in Fort Collins, whether you are retiree or newlywed. It’s why you stay and why others want to join us. It’s one of the main reasons why our community is so frequently atop the various lists of desirable places to live, work and retire.

ANALYSIS:Thompson school board election adds political trappings

This did not happen by accident. Our educational system succeeds because of commitment and hard work, for many years, from many quarters, citizens, parents, teachers, administrators, taxpayers. The range of ideas and support is reflected in our local volunteer Board of Education. That Board of Education has long encouraged thoughtful change, educational innovation and student enrichment.

Based on recent experience of other nearby school districts in Loveland, Douglas County and Jefferson County, there are those who threaten and would radically alter the way we do business in Poudre School District. Their intentions are undisclosed at first, and they are funded by two or three wealthy donors from outside of our community. These people think they know from far away, what is best for our community and our students.

Five of seven school board positions are to be filled in the upcoming November election. Generally school board elections are fairly dull affairs. They are rarely contested and have a modest campaign budget. Scant attention is paid. This year that may not be the case. It will require diligence, participation, attention and discipline to figure out who’s who and what’s what in the November election.

It will be important this November to examine the candidates, their funding sources, their supporters and their agenda. We will know by the ballot deadline of Aug. 28 whether our school board will be the next target.

Mike Liggett and Mark Hanson live in Fort Collins.