SOAP LAKE — Incumbent John Marthini is running for Soap Lake School Board director position two to maintain the school district’s high level of academic excellence.

He said it takes a lot of experience to accrue the knowledge it takes to serve the school board. Marthini said he’s served the board for nearly 14 years and in that time he’s gained knowledge about the WASL, mandates and budgeting issues.

Marthini wants to use his experience to teach newer school board members their duties.

His goals include keeping up a positive reputation for the school, giving the community transparency about school board business and being available to the community.

“I’m always there for questions,” Marthini said.

He said there are several challenges facing the school board including funding cuts and diversity among the students ranging from speaking different languages to different ethnic backgrounds. He said his wants to work to bring everyone together.

Marthini said people should vote for him because of his experience, people skills and because he wants to help students succeed.

He said the school board is currently working to enhance the sports facility to benefit students.

He explained communication between the school board, staff and the public is of the utmost importance to maintain transparency and to let people know how their money is spent.

“Communication is key,” he said.

Marthini explained the board must manage a tight budget in light of state funding cutbacks. He said it’s important to consider the types of possible cuts to ensure the programs in place now are not disturbed.

His main priority for the district is to make sure current programs maintain funding and to keep the academic level the highest possible.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Mr. Marthini did not provide a picture for us to use with the story.

— Bill Stevenson, ?managing editor