Candidate: Michael W. Ripplinger

My name is Mike Ripplinger and I am running for Superintendent of Schools of Union County. Many of you have come to know me as "Mr. Rip" while I have served the students and parents of Union County for 21 years as a teacher and administrator at Union County High School. During that time I taught American History, American Government and Economics classes for 11 years and have also served as an administrator for the past 10 years at UCHS. I currently serve the district as Director of Personnel and Secondary Education.

I have been married to my biggest supporter for twenty years, my wife Dawn. She has always been supportive and has encouraged me throughout my career. We have been blessed with two wonderful and talented children, Abigail and Caleb. Both of them have been active in school and in extracurricular activities which have helped them grow and face challenges in preparation for life. My family are members of Sardis Baptist Church in Worthington Springs and are active in several ministries.

I am running for Superintendent because I believe I can work effectively with school district staff, students, parents, and our community partners to continue the success we have experienced over the past many years. I am also running so that I can help guide our district through the challenges that will come our way. Over the past ten years I have been an administrator in Union County. During that time I worked closely with district and school level leadership to develop solutions and plans of action for issues we have encountered. I worked with teachers to improve student performance, improve opportunities for student success and preparation for their future, and have worked together with groups to improve and strengthen community relations, one such example being the district-wide Veterans Day Celebration. This event has helped bring the recognition our Veterans deserve and provide a time in which all of our students learn the importance of understanding the dedication and service of our active military and Veterans. I also worked with many parents who have had concerns to find common ground and solutions to their concerns.

All students who come through our school system deserve to have the best opportunity to excel in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. Students should be encouraged and supported to perform their best by having the best resources and educational opportunities available. They should have strong athletic programs, clubs, artistic and musical programs, and teams to take part in that will help them learn how to work with others and compete in life. Like many of you, I understand the value of these things because I have seen them significantly impact the lives of my own children.

One of the major reasons our students perform so well is due to our faculty and staff. The men and women who serve in our school district protect, transport, feed, teach, care for, and guide our students each day. These men and women are some of the finest and most dedicated people you will ever meet and they have a passion for providing the best for our students. I am committed to working with these great men and women to provide the resources they need to do their job to continue the level of excellence they perform each day.

I believe in the Union County School District and I am determined and dedicated to keeping it strong. My children are a product of our great school system and like you, I want a strong school system for all of our children. For 21 years you have trusted me with your childrens' safety and education. Now, I am asking you to trust me as your next Superintendent. As Superintendent of Schools for Union County, I will work tirelessly to ensure our students and staff have what they need to be successful in a safe environment, as well as maintain the strong partnership our schools share with the community. I humbly ask for your support and vote for Superintendent of Schools for Union County.