H SCHOOL BOARD H DAWANN GRAY You hear a lot about diversity matters. The reason why you hear that diversity matters is because it does! So when you look at me, I want you to understand that I am running in this election to add the necessary diversity to our School Board. But that diversity isn’t based solely on the color of my skin – it is the diversity in the representation of the various kids and the various families throughout our community. Of course, we all know and understand the importance of education. In Beachwood, we are fortunate to be able to offer our kids a great education, but we have to remember the following: The success of our children’s 12 years in school is not just measured by their grades, but also by their entire experience. Having attended Beachwood schools and now sending my kids through the district, I see that we have not yet become as great as we can be. This greatness must include a complete and diverse experience. Be it education, athletics, administration or our facilities – it must all be addressed in a balanced and comprehensive manner. We have a greatly improved high school, yet the state of the athletics facility is woefully under developed. Moreover, we have typically had a School Board that is greatly focused on providing a great educational and liberal arts experience, and creating a great platform for those high-achieving students to excel, yet it seems that we are woefully behind in providing the resources to help lift up those kids who are not as gifted or motivated. So when I speak of diversity, it is not only a black and white issue. It is an “everything” issue. We need to understand and embrace the fact that an education is not simply measured by test scores. It can be measured by how a child learns and benefits through things like athletics, or how an unmotivated child can become motivated. Understanding the KIDS is paramount to being an effective School Board member. My passion lies in doing the most I can for OUR kids. I know I will be effective if elected to the board and I ask for your vote on Tuesday, November 3rd. So when I speak of diversity, it is not only a black and white issue. It is an “everything” issue. We need to understand and embrace the fact that an education is not simply measured by test scores. H SCHOOL BOARD H JOSH MINTZ I am often asked the question, “Why do you want to be on the Beachwood School Board”? The citizens of Beachwood need to know that being a member of the School Board for me is so much more than simply giving back. Being a member of this Board also means that I have an obligation to help ensure that Beachwood remains one of the best school districts in the state. Maintaining our great schools doesn’t happen without dedication, hard work and planning. I am proud to serve on a board that doesn’t focus on just our accomplishments, but continues to work together to preserve and promote a standard of exceptional excellence in our schools, which is second to none. I believe board members must maintain excellent relationships with their superintendent and treasurer, so that we may lead with a “best in class” vision and understand where we are with our financial resources. I am privileged to work with administrators who share my passion for children, excellence in education, and devotion to global and entrepreneurial citizenship within our school district. As a businessman, I have a keen understanding of the importance and value of building and maintaining relationships. The evidence of my background and style can be seen in the mutual respect I give, seek and expect in others, and in my commitment to developing one-of-a-kind programming with industry leaders and organizations in our community. It can also be seen in my pursuit and recommendation of world-class experiences which will help the students in our district learn, grow and become world citizens. I am willing to continue to use these skills to unite the Board of Education, City Council and the Beachwood Chamber of Commerce to continue our legacy of excellence and build a stronger future for our children. My wife Elana and I chose to raise our children in Beachwood because of the nurturing environment, amazing opportunities and fantastic schools. If re-elected, I will continue to devote my time, energy and experience to the citizens of Beachwood by listening to what you, the residents and parents, are saying, and I will represent your needs accordingly. My commitment is to serve our community and to maintain exceptional excellence in Beachwood City Schools. Please share your thoughts and ideas on how we can make Beachwood’s schools THE BEST. Together as a community, we can do anything! I am asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 3rd. Thank you for your time and consideration. 54 Beachwood Buzz n October 2015