Austin Beckley is looking to return to a team in which he’s been a part of in the past, the Claymont City School Board.

Beckley, a Vietnam veteran, has lived in the community all his life. He told Newsymom.com he’s served the community any way he could including as a member of the Dennison Fire Department from 1971-1988.

During his time with the fire department, he served as a fire safety instructor, firefighter instructor and the last eight years of his career as the Assistant Fire Chief.

He also served on the Claymont City School Board in the 80s and 90s as well as several other community boards over the years.

 “I’ve been community minded and been involved in my community all my life. I love the community and I’m very proud of it and very proud of our school district,” explained Beckley.

When asked why he has decided to ask voters to bring him back he explained it’s time for a change.

“I’ve been monitoring our school district and we’ve lost some good teachers and I’m trying to figure out why,” he said. “I feel that with my experience I can bring back some good quality things for our schools”

Beckley stressed that it’s all about the kids.

“It’s not about me. I want it made well known that first and for most I will always look out for the best interest of the students,” he explained. “Also, education is not a line item on the agenda, it’s the only item on the agenda. I’m here for the kids.”

If elected, Beckley said he hopes to bring back some morale to teachers and to the community.

“The only agenda that I have is to look out for the interest of all of our students and to improve the communication with our community. We need to bring that back.”

Beckley added, “We have to remember that the community is the one that votes for the school board and you have to answer to them.”

Michaela Madison Reporting

 

Opponents:

Melinda K. Grant

Michelle Sproul

Collin Fawcett