A desire to give back to his community and a deep love and appreciation for North Putnam schools were the main reasons why Ron Spencer opted to run for school board.

Now, after having served, he is asking voters for the opportunity to continue serving Floyd Township on the board. He is facing challengers Dale Barnes and Kelly Murphy. 

"My mom was a bus driver, my wife and I were high school sweethearts at North Putnam, and our daughter is an alumna in her second year of teaching at Bainbridge Elementary. I am running for reelection because I have come to enjoy the challenge of serving on the school board. There is much to balance when crafting a public K-12 school corporation budget. The most important and considerable portions are teacher salaries, benefits, and building and transportation needs. There are also technological advancements, safety concerns, and ever-changing state and federal government mandates to keep up with. And, of course, we have a fiduciary duty to the district's taxpayers, which means we must keep their support and protect them from risk. North Putnam Community Schools are in a solid fiscal position for a corporation our size, and I am proud of that. Still, we have been able to provide raises, make some facility improvements, support teacher-led initiatives, and stay laser-focused on the educational achievement of all students. We have momentum, and I hope to remain part of it," Spencer told The Putnam County Post.

When it comes to today's climate surrounding schools and the district, Spencer said the first issue facing the district is one that is facing all businesses and corporations -- recruiting and retaining the best talent. 

"We are fortunate to have excellent teachers at North Putnam—teachers who care about their students and the surrounding community. Growing enrollment and preparing students for tomorrow’s economy are next for public schools. We overcome these issues by ensuring salaries and benefits are as competitive as possible, facilities are well-kept, and any improvements are planned with the future in mind. We should also constantly evaluate educational offerings to be sure they align with workforce demands. Also important is holding the line on spending and keeping tax rates low for the property owners in the northern part of the county," Spencer said. 

As a life-long Putnam County resident and graduate of North Putnam High School, Spencer has been involved in Putnam County 4-H for over 35 years and once served on the Putnam County Fair Board. 

He said if voters select him for another term, he will bring a "level head" to deliberations and a willingness to research the issues that come before the board. 

"I will also bring an understanding of how public schools are funded and governed and a passion to see them do well. Public K-12 schools are so important. They are important to families because they help prepare students for adulthood and future success. They are important to employers and the economy because they help provide a skilled workforce. Finally, public schools are a source of pride and unite communities. I greatly appreciate the increased parental and taxpayer engagement in the North Putnam Community Schools over the past few years. If re-elected, I hope to facilitate even more engagement through regular communication from the board," said Spencer.