Viewpoint: Tom Cook the right choice for Hellgate elementary school board

The Hellgate elementary education association interviewed and endorsed 3 candidates for the upcoming Hellgate elementary school board race.

They endorsed Loriann Christensen, Rod Sharkey and Tom Cook. Loriann and Rod are the incumbent candidates with a proven record of supporting educators at Hellgate elementary.

Tom Cook is the stellar new candidate looking to secure a board seat. I have known Tom Cook for over thirty years. Tom is a man of integrity, sincerity, and honesty. Tom is knowledgeable on school related issues and brings a sense of calm and trust to contentious situations. Tom spent his professional career in public education as a professor at the University of Montana.

He has a clear understanding of school budgeting and fiscal responsibility. His reasons for running for a trustee seat include safety and security for all students and staff, listening to all sides of issues prior to making a decision, and defending the rights of students, parents, teachers and taxpayers.

When your Hellgate elementary area ballot arrives, I encourage you to cast your votes for Tom Cook, Loriann Christensen and Rod Sharkey.