Patty Miller
THE EDMOND SUN
EDMOND — EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a two-part series on the candidates for District 5 of the Edmond Board of Education. Next Saturday’s Sun will feature incumbent Kemp Cole.
Running for the Edmond Board of Education position for District 5 is Susan Huffer’s way of giving back to the community, and she believes, “Together We Can Make A Difference.”
She will face incumbent Kemp Cole in the Feb. 9 election.
Raised in Edmond, Huffer graduated from Edmond High School in 1979, later receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in business management from Oklahoma State University in 1983. For the past 17 years she has been a Realtor in Edmond.
“Most of us agree, Edmond is a great place to live, work, raise a family, retire and receive a quality education,” Huffer said. “As a Realtor, I am keenly aware of the impact a good school district has on a community’s ability to attract businesses and patrons. Having first-hand appreciation for the quality of our Edmond schools, it is my turn to serve.”
Huffer believes using today’s technology, a link between patrons of the school district and their elected school board members will provide an opportunity for taxpayers to share ideas and suggestions to improve the district for today’s students and the future of the Edmond Public Schools.
Some of her goals include continuing to promote of a better selection of nutritious foods that appeal to students on the elementary, middle school and high school levels.
“I believe healthier food options will encourage better health, boost learning and add to a positive school experience for students,” Huffer said.
She would like to see the high schools offer students magnet programs where students could implement the things they have learned and show how what they have learned could be used.
For example, students interested in energy consumption could build a solar car, Huffer said.
She also believe the Edmond Public Schools should take every opportunity to support the economy of this community and its taxpaying patrons, by considering local services and suppliers when awarding contracts.
She is interested in developing a “green” approach for all district construction and transportation.
“I believe the school district must think long-term by taking a ‘green’ approach to the maintenance and operation of it current facilities as well as in the construction of new facilities,” Huffer said, “and each time we build, we should build green.”
She also would like to see a more open dialogue within the district that would give parents, PTOs and other support organizations a voice within the district.
“This ownership will facilitate cooperation and boost support,” Huffer said.
Another goal for Huffer is to obtain teacher and staff input for maintaining excellence in the district.
“Given the amount of time spent in the classroom with students, our teachers are one of this district’s most valuable resources,” Huffer said. “A year-end evaluation of the district will give teachers a strong voice and provide valuable insight.”
FOR COMMENTS or to discuss issues, call Huffer at 513-3319 or e-mail susan@vote4susanhuffer.com.
