OPINION: Re-elect Cory Smegal to Piedmont School Board
We have known Cory since our kids began kindergarten at Wildwood over a dozen years ago. From the start it was obvious that she would do great things for our schools and our community. Since then, she has done nearly every volunteer job in town: President of the Wildwood Parents Club, Chair of the Giving Campaign, softball coach, Scout leader, just to name a few.
Watching her serve as School Board vice-president, it is clear that Cory’s continued leadership is of great value to our town. She has been a consistent advocate for improved communication, for the mental health and well being of our students, and for the financial health of our public schools.
Cory has worked hard to improve communications in her role as the Board liaison. She responded promptly and thoughtfully to hundreds of emails that were sent to the Board during this difficult time. She answered numerous and emotional emails from us with understanding, grace, honesty and integrity. On Zoom and KCOM, we have watched Cory stand out as a critical thinker and clear communicator. She does her research, and she asks direct and transparent questions that are informed by science and best practices.
Cory has been steadfast in her efforts to help our students. She has advocated to bring students back to the classroom as soon as safely possible. She has also been working with students to create ways for them to make meaningful connections, even in a COVID-restricted world.
Cory has an MBA and her financial literacy is essential in times of increased budget challenges. After four years of Board leadership, she also has a deep understanding of the District’s financials. Cory helped organize the Red for Ed Campaign and led efforts to lobby for increased education funding from the State so that our School District could give raises to our employees.
We are incredibly fortunate that Cory is running for a second term. Quite honestly, it’s hard to imagine the School Board without her! Please join us in voting to re-elect Cory to the Piedmont School Board.
– Pam Schwartz & Eric Wolfers
