Please tell us a little about yourself (current work, education, experience, background).

My name is Curtis Riddle. I was raised here in Italy and attended Italy schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade. I graduated from Italy Isd in 1990. I attended Tarleton State University as an Ag-business major. I am currently self-employed in the field of agriculture and investment properties.

What ties do you have at the Italy school district (i.e. children enrolled, family employed, former student)?

I currently have two children currently enrolled in Stafford elementary. Clay and Courtney are the fourth generation of Riddle’s to attend Italy schools. I have no immediate family employed by the district.

Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?

I am seeking a second term on the school board in order to oversee the taxpayer’s money and see that it is spent wisely and is focused on better educating the students in our district. I would also like to give back to the community and school district. I feel that it is important to have a successful school for our students to attend.

What qualifications or experience do you possess that voters should consider?

I have been on the school board for the past 3-years. I have some knowledge in school finance. I feel that people in the community trust my decision and appreciate the commitment of being on the board of trustees.

What do you consider your primary responsibility as a school board member?

My primary responsibility as a school board member is to hire the superintendent, adopt a budget, and set goals for the future of Italy Isd.

What do you consider the most important issue facing our school today?

I believe that our taks scores must be improved.

What do you consider the most positive and negative aspect of being a member of the school board?

The decisions that I make as a board member will help the students to succeed now and in the future.

What do you think should be the top priorities of the school board after this election?

Going forward with the new hires the district is facing and to take part in setting a new budget for the 2010-2011 school year.

Are there any policy changes you would seek to implement at the school? If yes, which ones?

None at this time

What community services have you given the school or community in the past?

I have served on the school board for the past 3-years. I am actively involved in my church, and I volunteer for many different activities at Stafford. I make every effort to attend as many functions and sporting events as possible for both campuses.

Explain your position on hiring non-certified teachers?

I do not feel like we should hire non-certified teachers.

How would you maintain a healthy balance between education and athletics?

I feel that what is done in the classroom will carry over into athletics. Focusing on success in the classroom should be priority and success in athletics will follow.

Because discipline is a nationwide problem, what ideas or changes would you like to see to continue to improve school discipline?

Discipline should be firm and steady!!

With the current money crunch, what ideas do you have to keep the budget trim?

Continue to maintain the facilities and make everyone aware of cost effective procedures in the school.

What positive changes within the infrastructure of our schools might be made to retain and/or attract quality teachers to educate our children?

We need to do all that is possible to support and retain a quality teaching staff. Support from the school board, administration and parents can make this happen.

In what ways can the district’s school board be more open to listen to teachers and parents about their concerns?

Listening to concerns and passing them through the proper channels. Keeping communication with parents, teachers and citizens of the district.

What incentives, if any, do you think should be implemented to motivate students to improve their performance in the classroom?

This is the first year for the flex days, and I believe this will help motivate students.