Letter: County official endorses Raabe
Editor’s note: Portage County does not have any position called “co-county supervisor.”
To the Editor-
I’ve worked closely with now Dennis Raabe as a co-county supervisor on a number of pivotal issues
before Portage County. His extensive experience as a former local school administrator informs his
decision-making process with a real understanding, and sensitivity of regional issues. Dennis is
thoughtful, thorough, pragmatic, and no joke intended here, he does his homework.
He also has the ability to critically assess issues and ask the hard, and maybe more importantly, the
pertinent questions that speak to the heart of an issue. Dennis personifies what it is to be publicly
engaged in a broad range of efforts that serve his community. Dennis does this without an agenda, but with a clear-eyed approach and informed perspective, and usefully in this contentious climate, a self-deprecating sense of humor.
Public education is one of the most essential components of any community, whether that be municipal, county, state, or nation. Instilling a comprehensive understanding of the world, along with values and skill sets that prepare kids for college or the labor market benefits all. Public education creates well-rounded individuals, but also speaks to those areas beyond just the academic, and supports the growth of socially conscious, balanced adults.
Public education drives the preparation of all students to become engaged and productive members of our community and the larger society, while also ensuring that they understand the value of observing and obeying the agreed-upon social norms and rules of the land.
Oversight of such an important component of shaping children and young adults should be undertaken only by those most qualified to address that critical role in the interest of us all.
For me, Dennis Raabe is a clear and compelling choice.
Ray P. Reser, Ph.D., RPA
Portage County Supervisor
District 25