Editorial
Run for the schools

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The best and brightest who still eagerly want to serve the public should consider running next year for Seattle School Board, one of the most important public jobs around.

Imagine if the School Board had the energy and big-picture thinking of, say, Mark Sidran, who apparently lost the Democratic primary for state attorney general, or legislative candidates or candidates who in other years would run for Seattle City Council.

We need to expand the portfolio of talent and perspective on the board and broaden the pool of people who consider serving a good way to give back to the community. Where are the bankers, dot-comers, civic do-gooders and others who care about high-quality public schools?

Most current board members are well-intended but, together, lack leadership and cohesiveness. They lack the sharp business acumen brought by former board member Don Nielsen, and the far-sighted thinking of former board member Scott Barnhart, a medical doctor.

Last year, Seattle voters threw out four board members and replaced them with newcomers, most of whom are still trying to figure out what to do.

Maybe over time, this board will come together and see its way. For now, there is too much micromanagement of small agenda items, too much dithering over big ones.

Qualified politicians and professionals seeking to serve the community should challenge a few board members whose terms end next year.

The teachers, principals, parents and schoolchildren of Seattle need stronger vision, skills and commitment.