Jason Traczyk: School Board Candidate

Name: Jason Traczyk

Age: 41

Lives in Stow: 35 Years

Family: One daughter

Occupation: Director of Operations for Dunholt Medical

Education: graduate

Political Affiliation: Non-partisan, according to the Summit County Board of Elections.

(Board members serve the district on a non-partisan basis)

Position Sought: 

Other Elected Positions: None.

What is the biggest problem facing the district? 

• "The lack of communication and mutual respect between the administration, board, and community is shackling the administrations ability to conduct business and address critical issues. Until this is reestablished our student body will continue to be the ones who suffer. The recently posted warning letter from the state dated Nov. 30, 2009 shows that there is stagnation that has to be overcome. The board has to assure that the administration holds to being good stewards of the community’s finances and an unresolved two year old notice from the state is a clear indication this is not the case. There has to be accountability, if those responsible can not resolve an issue over a two year period maybe they should be taken off that project. Suggestions from the community have to carry weight. An administrator not residing in our community has to be clear on what we want for our students not what they personally feel is best."

Are you in favor of the ?

• "After seeing the enrollment on the decline in our community and adjacent communities as well, I support what the superintendent has said needs to be readdressed. Our neighboring communities are consolidating and downsizing to achieve their goals and it is something to consider. A number of years ago our district reopened a school that was closed. The district may have had a valid need and the means to reopen the school at the time, but that was then. While I am sure the superintendent does not want to be too outspoken, I am also sure the he knows that the priority is to effectively and efficiently educate the students. Not to employ a greater staff than is required. He had stated that a study was done on this issue and suggested to reconsider the findings or to do a new. I would love to support him on this issue. It is the tough decisions that make for success, even though they may not be the 'popular' ones."

What are your goals if elected?

• "Inform the public, the boards meeting minutes are two months behind on the website. Minutes need to be thorough and posted within one week. This would give the community a week to review/inquire prior to the next meeting. This should be an easy and not unreasonable task. Again, if the ones who are currentlyresponsible for completing tasks are unable to perform we need find individuals that can. Increasing the community attendance at meetings and helping others to get involved to build a stronger and even moresuccessful district is very important as well. Bring a friend or neighbor!"

What qualifies you to be on the board?

• "Having been a member of the Stow-Munroe Falls community for over 35 years and a graduate of Stow-Munroe Falls Schools it is time to give back. With more than fourteen years of a strict adherence to standards and regulations within the medical field. Providing products world wide, having to reach agreements with both public and private organizations. A thorough, well informed, and documented approach to any task is the key to its success."

Where do you stand on the  Program?

• "As how it is being introduced I am against it. Implementing into only one third of the elementary schools is depriving two thirds of the district's students. The administration has promoted this program with examples of high schools implementing the program and colleges eager to take those with an IB graduation. Neither have anything to do with how this program has been instituted. I also question the districts decision to pay for the training of staff. Are we now required to pay for all continuing education and training for our educators?Administrators? All the districts support staff?"