MOSES LAKE - Alan Burritt is trying for another term at Moses Lake School Board Position 1 because he wants to continue working for the district's goals.

He'd like to realize the board's long-range plan by helping with the passage of a bond, and will build on the past successes of increased student test scores and improved district facilities.

Burritt's 12 years on the board allowed him to understand what it takes to be an effective team member. His years as the Moses Lake Postmaster helped his understanding of budgets.

He believes the district's greatest challenge relates to ongoing budget shortfalls threatening future funding for education programs, improved curriculum and teacher training.

If cuts continue the board must become more creative to achieve financial efficiency and must invite the help of everyone in the district, according to Burritt.

"We need to continue to look at the effectiveness of everything we do and be prepared to make difficult decisions," he said.

Burritt said it's too soon to tell where budget cuts would be applied, but "the last area that I will be willing to cut is any reduction to education programs for our students."

Despite declining revenues, Burritt says the district must build adequate facilities. He points to the board's long-range plan, which proposes two new elementary schools and an all-day kindergarten.

Sixth grade students would move back into elementary schools, eliminating congestion in middle schools. The plan also calls for construction of a new high school to curb overcrowding.

In the next four years he would aim to fairly represent taxpayers and protect their dollars while pushing for the best possible education for students in a safe environment.

When it comes to student education, school safety is key, Burritt said, "because learning is not possible when one feels unsafe."

He acknowledges gang activity as a problem in the district and says everyone - administration, staff, security personnel, students and parents - will have to work together to help solve the issue.

Voters who choose him will get an open mind and no agenda, a team member who will always strive to further the accomplishments of the district, he said.