Rushton Wants to Find Cost Savings Opportunities Within Fenton Schools Current Budget

During the next few days, we will introduce you to the Fenton Board of Education Candidates.

There are three candidates competing for one four-year term. Today we meet  Dior Rushton.

How long have you lived in the area?

My husband and I have been Fenton school district residents for the last 18+ years and currently have two children in Fenton schools.

Why did you want to run for school board?

I am running for school board to be more fully engaged in the decisions that affect our children’s education and our schools.  I also want to give parents a voice on the board.  Over the last year and a half, I’ve been regularly attending school board meetings to gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face. 

What community and organizations are you currently involved in?

I am currently a Girl Scouts USA co-leader and State Road Elementary PTO volunteer.  I also volunteered for the AGS Middle School PTO last year.

What personal and professional experiences make you qualified to hold that position?

My professional experience includes fourteen years in the automotive industry, working for several OEM suppliers.  I have worked in the fields of purchasing, program management and administrative/operations.  As a Buyer. I was responsible for working with others to reduce costs on a continuous basis.  As a Program Manager, I worked as a  member of multiple cross-functional teams to complete projects on time.

What is the most important issue and what do you intend to do about it during your term in office?

I support finding cost savings opportunities within the current budget to help pay for buses and technology.  Fenton’s estimated annual budget for 2012/13 is $28 million.  If we found a 1 percent annual savings, we could buy 3 new buses per year and have money left over to put toward technology.  I’m in favor of breaking down the 10-year technology plan into smaller phases, clarifying our needs versus our wants, prioritizing upgrades, knowing the life expectancy of each upgrade and using a pay-as-we-go approach.

What are some other issues you would like to see change in the school district?

Fenton does a good job with student achievement and career readiness.  We truly have some of the most qualified, committed and caring teachers and staff I’ve ever known.  Although we do well in this area, there’s always room for improvement on MEAP and ACT scores.  I would  like to see that positive trend continue.

Last, but not least, I would very much like to see the State Road soccer parking lot project be completed, now that the sinking fund millage has been renewed.