About Don

Meet the Candidate... Don Rickard

Proven Experience and Leadership
Ohio State University, M.A., Educational Policy, Technology and Leadership
Michigan State University. PhD work, Educational Policy, Technology and Leadership
Successful large business owner/operator with over 150 employees (Brewbaker Motors)
Many years of mentoring, coaching, leading and teaching our youth
Advisor, founder, consultant for several business and educational start-ups
Served on and led many local boards (education) and several state task forces
Married 36 years to a former teacher; 3 adult daughters (one is currently a teacher); one grandson

Frequent Asked Questions

Why am I running for the Board Education seat in District 6?

First, the current Board Member, Claudia Mitchell, has been a fantastic and excellent advocate for great schools. She is not replaceable, but she is not seeking another term. Her wisdom and actions will be missed. So, I was approached by several citizens about running for the District 6 slot.I was very pleased to say “yes” as a Democrat candidate. Second, I strongly believe that the dream of great county public schools can be achieved because I have seen so many examples of success – one led by a family member in a southern state, was taken over by the state for poor performance yet within a few years rose to the very top in the state. Third, with great schools the quality of life in our wonderful city will grow significantly as property values increase, businesses flourish, and our students return to live here, or stay here as prosperous and active citizens.

What is the purpose of K-12 education?

Generally, it is to expand the horizons of young people by introducing knowledge, facts, and moral virtues that hopefully will increase wisdom, ethical behavior, and skill levels for the good of the individual and for the good of society as a whole. For some this may mean continuing their education in a formal higher education format. For some it may mean using the skills, wisdom, and virtues learned in a setting that does not needs require formal higher education. No one is better than the other, both have value.

When is the election?

The election is May 19

Teachers are professionals. They should be fairly compensated. They likely spend more hours with our children in those 10 months than we parents.

As the father of a teacher, and having grown up in an education family, I can say without reservation it may be the toughest, yet joyous career there is.Great teachers work an amazing amount of hours, many working six days a week, with great expectations from the stakeholders – parents and the community. They often use their “summer vacation time” as coaches and attending Continuing Education courses to deliver the best experience for your child. With the explosion of technology the pressure has only increased for these professionals – education should not and does not rest. We are entrusting our children’s formative years to these professionals. They need your encouragement, support, and questions.