Superintendent of
Perry Township Schools
The community backs our schools.
You supported a referendum that replaced 50-year-old boilers, repaired leaking roofs and rejuvenated science classrooms.
Funding for public schools continues to be a challenge. We have turned to business partnerships that support and enhance the athletic, fine arts and academic programs. This saves taxpayers dollars and provides the opportunity for businesses to reinvest in the community that has spurred their growth.
The Ray Skillman Auto Group has been most generous, and we are talking with other businesses to support our needs. The Perry Township Education Foundation and Perry Schools have united to raise the needed funds.
I believe most people would agree that students need the opportunity to explore an array of curricular offerings to begin to plan a career path. We are fortunate that our students have the ability to enroll in a variety of courses while participating in various activities.
The advantage of having two high schools offering complimentary subjects is an excellent use of financial resources. Students can and do enroll in courses at Perry Meridian and Southport, depending upon their interest.
For example, the robotics program is tremendously popular and successful. Many students elect to go into engineering careers because of this experience. Individuals who never would have considered this career path are now working in positions that they enjoy and find financially rewarding.
We also believe that music and artistic expression is paramount to creativity in the workplace. Individuals who can solve problems and think outside the proverbial box are extremely valuable to employers. Students with these talents are truly an asset to the community. We boast an excellent fine arts program.
“Athletics build character” is a statement we hear from the time children are old enough to kick, throw and bat a ball, wrestle around with their siblings or do a somersault. Time management, teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence and leadership are all positive characteristics that result from participation in athletic programs.
Your school buildings are in good condition. However, your athletic facilities are in need of repair, and the equipment for your fine arts programs has to be replaced.
Flooded baseball fields and the overworked sump pumps in the dugouts at Holder Field must be addressed. Muddy softball and baseball diamonds at Perry Meridian High must be drained and refurbished. Turf on the school’s football field would provide that facility with a safe surface for various activities.
Your children playing musical instruments that have been cast off from other school districts is not acceptable.
Our goal is to provide a quality educational experience for your students, to be the school district of choice on the Southside, which will protect the value of property.
Together, we will achieve this goal.