Misty Servia proves best for school board

Be present. I think this is the perfect way to look at the local school board political situation. Who is present? Who really cares enough to ask what, we, the people think versus tell us how he or she thinks they are the best candidate? Who is willing to learn from constituents and adjust their ideas once learning the facts?

I have been known to be pretty attentive when it comes to issues in local and state education. When Misty Servia contacted me regarding my opinion on some educational issues, I shouldn’t have been surprised, but I was.

I was surprised because I had a preconceived notion that she would be similar to past candidates. You know the ones who shove fear and propaganda at us and create issues that really didn’t exist while ignoring the real issues facing students and teachers in our schools.

I began to take notice that Misty Servia was present at a community discussion regarding the overcrowding of some schools and the future of school development in Manatee County. She might not have been vocal, but she was listening; she was present.

I took notice that she was at board workshops, school board meetings and she was asking questions of parents and presenters.

I am supporting Misty Servia because she is doing her due diligence; she is asking questions and doing research. She understands the responsibility of the position she is running for; she is communicative and present.

I believe that she will continue to communicate and be active as a school board member. I am supporting Misty Servia because I trust that she will put students first.

My advice is to look for the candidates who have been present, and care about the issues that face our students and schools.

This story was originally published August 18, 2016 at 3:29 PM with the headline "Misty Servia proves best for school board."