Letters

Rebuttal

Hernando Today
Published: August 12, 2012

Hernando Today offers candidates not recommended by its recommendation team an opportunity to reply.

Much thanks to Hernando Today for the time they took to thoroughly review the school board candidates and their acknowledgement that several candidates are more than qualified to serve on the board. I have a few clarifications I would like to add:

First, I can say with confidence that my current experience with the school system is more hands on than any other candidate. As I have talked to the public during my campaign, I have found that almost every question or concern presented to me by a teacher, student, or parent has been an issue with which I have had personal experience.

This experience has not just been at a SAC or PTSA meeting but with my own children. My kids have been affected by elimination of courtesy busing, changes in afterschool programs, changes in FCAT grading policies, and the list goes on.

In addition, my wife shares her experience in the classrooms with me. She has taught kids as a Justice Teaching and Junior Achievement volunteer and has served as a Youth Court judge. These are perspectives that only I can offer to the board.

Second, I want to clarify my statement on limiting afterschool activities. I am fully aware of the benefits of these programs for students and parents and would not eliminate tutoring or aftercare.

My reference is to the many night activities that occur with community organizations and programs. If we went dark one night each week, these meetings could simply be rescheduled to another evening.

Third, my business experience brings much to the board. I have been a staunch advocate of increasing internship opportunities with local businesses and have been in touch with many business, including my own, about this program. In addition, my workplace experience has involved streamlining, cutting costs, becoming more efficient, purchasing, negotiating contracts, and meeting budget goals.

Finally, I am fully prepared and able to devote the time and effort needed to improve our school district.

Robert Neuhausen

Candidate for District 4 School Board