Change can usually be a good thing. However, in politics in North Dakota, change is usually an unknown element. I'm not saying that's a bad thing in all cases. However, in the case regarding the superintendent for public instruction, I think the time has come for a change.
After spending time talking with Max Laird, I believe he brings the ideas and motivation to catapult our Department of Public Instruction into a new millennium. As a teacher, I feel disengaged from the department, wondering why it isn't more of an advocate for the best interest of teachers and students. I guess I want what most people want: a voice in government.
I work with Laird and made a point of asking him the other day how he would give a voice to educators and parents across the state.
And I must say, I was impressed by his answers. I can honestly say I don't agree with all of Laird's ideas and/or politics, but in my discussion with him, I found myself nodding in agreement more often than not.
Change can be good. However, it can also take effort to find out the candidate's opinions and views on an issue. As an educator and parent, I feel it's time for a change at the state level, and I see Laird as a person ready to facilitate that change.
