I wanted to take a moment to thank the Alpena school board for what they’ve been accomplishing. Over the past several months, there has been no shortage of criticism and negative commentary, much of it louder than it is helpful. Through it all, this board has stayed focused and kept working.

The focus sure shows!

At the most recent meeting, the board approved moving forward with a new PE classroom and weight room. Anyone who has seen the current space–often called “the dungeon”–knows just how overdue this is. For years, it was talked about, but nothing changed. Now, it finally is.

That didn’t happen by accident. This board kept bringing the issue forward, worked with administration, and made sure to get real input from students, coaches, and staff. They listened, and more importantly, they acted.

It’s fair to say this: I don’t believe this would have happened with a different board. For a long time, concerns like this went nowhere. Now, we’re seeing follow-through and real results.

The constant criticism shouldn’t drown out what’s actually being accomplished. Our kids are the ones who benefit from these decisions, and right now, they’re finally seeing improvements they deserve.

We are headed in the right direction, and this board deserves credit for making that happen.

Teresa Smith

Alpena