Sunday, April 19, 1998

Christensen, Batts Benham for schools

Abilene school district voters are facing the most important board election in six years.

For the first time in years, no incumbent is seeking re-election. Three new people will join the board. One of the retiring members, Betty Davis, is board president, meaning trustees must choose a new leader.

Both the Abilene and Wylie school boards face daunting issues ranging from taxes to textbooks and technology.

Candidates for the Abilene and Wylie school boards offer a variety of experience, skills and views about education. Those seeking positions on the Abilene board all have strengths that would add to the present board.

Our recommendations in the contested races:

-- For Place 4 on the Abilene school board, Yvonne Batts has long shown a concern for public education through a wide variety of volunteer work. Her professional background will help in the growing field of technology in which our students must be well-grounded.

-- For Place 5, Lora Lynn Christensen has both a concern for students and their development, and a comprehensive view of system issues. She will bring valuable fresh perspectives.

-- On the Wylie school board, veteran Bob Benham has served well and deserves another term. His financial background and knowledge of the system will continue to be beneficial.