By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Bill Clifford has been named to the Bowling Green Board of Education. The board voted unanimously this morning to name Clifford to the seat vacated by Ed Whipple.
Clifford, a retired Wood Lane superintendent, said this morning that his first goal is just to listen and learn.
“I need to listen, even though I have all this experience as a superintendent, I really need to listen and sit back,” he said.
Clifford’s top priority for the school district is academic achievement. In order to achieve that, he wants to focus on school facilities, retention of quality staff, and creating opportunities for special needs students.
“I firmly believe we need to provide the best possible environment for teachers to teach and for students to learn,” he wrote in his board application. “Second, retaining quality personnel is essential to a quality education. Balancing that need with the realization of our current tax structure will be challenging and well worth brainstorming options that provide for both.
“Finally, we need to be acutely aware of the preparation necessary for the successful integration of students with special needs into their community upon graduation.”
Clifford was selected among four applicants, the others being Joanna Craig, Barbara Moses and Bryan Wiles.
Moses, a retired BGSU professor, ran for a seat on the school board last fall. The initial vote count showed her winning by 10 votes. However, after the provisional ballots were counted, Moses lost the seat to Ginny Stewart by nine votes.
Clifford will fill the remainder of Whipple’s term, which ends December 2017.
The board expressed appreciation this morning to all who sought the seat.
“I want to thank all of the people who put themselves up,” Ellen Scholl said. “We felt that Bill was the best fit for this board.”
Jill Carr talked about the selection process, which gave each candidate a chance to present their positions. “Every candidate had equal opportunity to express their thoughts.”
Ginny Stewart said she hoped the candidates not selected would continue their support of schools. “I want to encourage all of the candidates to stay involved and help up get there.”
Board president Paul Walker said Clifford had “significant more experience” than the other candidates. “He has a pretty strong resume.”
Clifford served as Wood Lane superintendent for 10 years, and as superintendent in Putnam County for five years. His community involvement includes serving as president of the Chamber of Commerce, as a planning commission member, and on youth athletic boards.
Clifford said his experience as a superintendent has given him a strong financial background and an understanding of facilities.
When reached after the vote this morning, Clifford said he is very excited to serve on the board.
“I’m looking forward to giving back to the community again,” he said.
“I thought my skill set would match well with the current board members,” he said. “And I’m very impressed with the current superintendent and his management style.”
He praised the current board for its efforts. “They are looking out for the best of the kids,” he said. “I don’t think it’s a rubberstamp board by any means.”
