Trending
As we approach a highly contentious Alpena Public Schools Board of Education election, I am making a conscious effort to give every candidate an equal opportunity to earn my vote. That means researching their records, asking questions, and understanding the decisions they’ve made.
As the parent of a former APS high school athlete and a future APS athlete, I was surprised to learn that current board member AJ McArthur reportedly voted NO twice in the past four years on resolutions supporting APS membership in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA).
Why does this matter?
MHSAA membership provides student-athletes access to sanctioned competitions, postseason tournaments, insurance protections, and other important benefits.
With 31 athletic teams across Alpena Public Schools, I believe it’s important to understand the potential consequences of declining membership and how such a decision could affect our students and athletic programs.
I have spoken with the APS Athletic Office to better understand the MHSAA membership and have attempted to contact Mr. McArthur directly to ask about his reasoning. Unfortunately, I have not yet been successful in reaching him. I welcome his explanation and believe parents deserve to understand the rationale behind these votes.
Whether our children participate in athletics, music, theater, or other extracurricular activities, these opportunities enrich their educational experience and bring families, visitors, and economic activity into our community.
My goal is not to jump to conclusions but to understand decisions that could affect our students.
Parents of APS student-athletes, take note. School board decisions matter. Let’s ask questions, seek answers, and make informed choices at the ballot box. Our school board members make decisions that matter.
Sarah Melching
Presque Isle Township