Region 14 Board of Ed Candidate: George Bauer

George Bauer, Bethlehem

During George Bauer's time as a Region 14 Board of Education member, he is most proud of increasing communication with the community and town government. 

Top Priorities

Bauer said a focus on student achievement is one of the top priorities he sees going forward. 

He provided the following list of priorities via e-mail:

• Continued board of education involvement towards implementing and supporting the district's efforts with the Common Core State Standards, increased graduation requirements, migration to new student evaluation with the Smarter Balance assessments, and new teacher evaluation procedures.

• Hire director of instruction, work with administration in setting up short and long term goals towards our district strategic plans.

• Support migration to digital learning, modern education environment.

• Continue safety committee work to improve school safety, student and staff safe school climate.

Other accomplishments he noted are: 

• Keeping vigilant with staff adjustments based on enrollment and services needed.

• Increased involvement of town government and community members with budget development workshops

• Airing board meetings on NEAT-TV

• Working with town Board of Finance liaisons

• Hosting public forms introducing the new superintendent

• New financial report monthly formats from director of finance

• Increased community communication surveys

• Including student representatives at board meetings

Regarding the budget, Bauer said the board increased efficiencies and savings. He cited new energy efficiency programs with electricity and fuel savings from conversion of three out of four schools, from oil to natural gas.

He said he wants to continue looking for cost cutting and efficiency initiatives for the district.

Future Goals

 In the future, Bauer said that he hopes to continue working with the other board members collaboratively and engaging constructive work that moves the region forward.

He wants to continue the board's efforts toward increasing students' achievement by preparing them well with 21st century skills. That involves developing and planning when it comes to facilities and technology, he said.

Continually improving school safety and emergency preparedness is a goal of Bauer's.