Meet the LCSD School Board
First up, Chair, Ron Beck, Zone 3 (Newport)
Getting to know Ron Beck...
Thanks for the opportunity to share.
1. Why did you decide to become a part of the Lincoln County School District Board of Directors?
The District was in the paper a lot regarding budget cuts that were coming from the State of Oregon and the frequent topic of one of our biggest critics on the local radio station. After narrowly averting a strike by the teachers’ union, this was giving plenty of fodder. The proposed “menu” of options presented by the superintendent to balance the budget (he offered individual programs with dollar amounts attached for the public to choose) included closing the Eddyville school and outsourcing our bus operations, our food service, and our custodial. The board member in my zone announced his retirement, so instead of joining in the chorus of complaints, I decided to apply for the open position. Much to my surprise, I got the call and was sworn in. Shortly thereafter, recall petitions were filed for the other four board members. I became a director in July and was the sole remaining board member by November.
2. Do you have children? Did they graduate from an LCSD school? What are they doing now in their careers?
Elaine and I have three children that all attended and graduated from Lincoln County Schools. Our son Orin is a Technical Sergeant in the US Air Force and serves as a Loadmaster on C-130J Super Hercules airlifters. He has done 5 combat tours and is currently an Evaluator/Instructor for the 34th CTS in Little Rock, Arkansas. Our daughter Rachel (Steward) is the Band and Choir teacher at Newport High School. When she graduated in 2007 and during the “Atta Cub” Scholarship interviews, stated that she would return to NHS and continue the program that she had known as a student. Our youngest daughter Katlyn is a partner for Starbucks in the West Hills area of Portland and is a Coffee Master – wearing the black apron to denote the extensive additional curriculum and work that she has done in and around the Barista craft.
3. What do you hope to accomplish in 2018 as part of the board?
We are working hard to support programs and efforts that are successful for our current students while ensuring that they are sustainable for future students. Hiring a new superintendent will spearhead that effort and will be the primary program of work for the board in 2018. My time as Chairman has been incredible. It is my hope to work with a new chair (starting in July 2018) to make it every bit as rewarding as it has been for me.
4. Anything else you'd like parents to know about involvement in the school district?
Be heard. I work hard to understand the issues that are presented to the board and to make the best decision based on the data and input that we receive. Having input from our parents and grandparents is so very valuable to balancing the numbers and figures. It is our school district and that means that we represent the voter. While we cannot control what comes from Salem, we own how we deal with it.
School Board Members
December Board Meeting
Ron Beck, Chair, (Zone 3) Newport
Lincoln County School District
Email: kristin.bigler@lincoln.k12.or.us
Website: www.lincoln.k12.or.us
Location: 459 SW Coast Hwy, Newport, OR, United States
Phone: 5412659112
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lincoln-County-School-District-Oregon-1452323948355020/