MOSES LAKE - Steve Crapson believes he is the right choice for Moses Lake School Board Position 1 because he has what it takes to be a good leader.

"I believe the quality of a good leader is one who knows when to listen and when to speak," he said. "Also, a good leader thinks ahead of where we are today by planning for the future."

Crapson, a graduate of Moses Lake High School who has lived in the community for 40 years, has "always had a special interest in education," he said.

He is a member of the Moses Lake High Band Booster club and participated in the district's Parent-Teacher-Student Association for a decade.

His primary goal for Position 1 is to help foster an open, two-way conversation to engage students, teachers and support staff in determining together what is needed to solve day-to-day issues. All students should feel safe and be given every opportunity for learning in a team-centered, engaging and consistent educational environment, Crapson said.

In order to help achieve such a place, he said board members must examine all current actions "as part of a dialogue to make sure we are making quality decisions for the Moses Lake Community."

School gang activity can be curbed through the combined efforts of teachers, counselors, community members and local law enforcement, he said. By acting together, school leaders can create safeguards so all children feel comfortable approaching adults with questions or for help.

Crapson understands Moses Lake schools face lean budgets and said having a solid community representative with sound judgment on the board will help when making challenging financial decisions. If more budget reductions are needed he would not make cuts to teachers, but would target "the extras," he said.

To achieve more financial efficiency Crapson would like more accessible monthly reports and review before and during board meetings, including regular detailed financial statements.

If the budget situation improves in the future he would like to see a larger levy passed for construction of a new high school and new middle school as well as smaller class sizes at every grade level.