A frustrated Michigan school board member feels that most school boards are not accountable to the taxpayers who they are supposed to represent, and do not always have the best interests of children at heart.

Mike Reno tried hard to expand school accountability and transparency during his four years on the Rochester School Board. However, he felt that he wasn't making enough progress, and has decided not to seek a second term.

Reno believes that school boards are often financed by special interests, and usually take an easy path of rubber stamping the wishes of the unions or the administration. 

Reno was known to point out many of his issues during school board meetings.

For example, at one public forum, he spoke against the board, who was limiting those who opposed them to three minutes, while allowing those who supported the board to speak for more than five minutes.

Reno will continue educating the public about his concerns on his education blog.

What else does Reno have to say about school boards?

Here are some of Reno's best quotes:

• "Local school boards haven’t proven themselves to be much more than ceremonial entities." 
   
• "There's remarkably little discussion, and that which does take place is primarily managed by the local board president."
   
• "Despite the fact that they collectively spend one-third of our state’s budget, no one is paying much attention to local school boards who often arrogantly dismiss new ideas and completely escape accountability.”
   
• "Administration controls the data, and individual board members cannot access illuminating data without the approval of the majority."

What do people think about Mike Reno and his opinions about school boards?

Here's what people on both sides of the issue say about Reno: 

• "The school board just wants "HAPPY"...it makes their jobs so much easier. Mike put in excessive amounts of time, talent, and service."
   
• "He has alientated educators, parents, and colleagues through his divisive politicking, rude behavior and general disrespectful demeanor at school board meetings. He has certainly NOT been a hero to many people who care about Rochester Schools."
   
• "Reno, rude? Baloney. Fortunately the videos are online at the district website to show that Mike was nothing but respectful."
   
• "The simple fact is that when WE needed his independent stance the most...HE QUIT!"
   
• "The union is about protecting the benefits of the adults. I hope Mike continues to be an advocate for the kids. The kids need as many as they can get especially during these trying economic times."
   
• "Mike was up against a very union-backed board. Two of the board members he served with had received the largest MEA PAC donations EVER RECORDED. Tim Greimal and outgoing board president Michelle Shepherd each received $3000 in donations. And current trustee Beth Talbert is a member of a teachers union at Oakland University."

For more information, see:

It’s not business as usual for this Rochester school board trustee

Mike Reno's Education Blog

To receive daily updates from the National Education Examiner, just click "subscribe" at the top of the story and enter your email address, which will not be shared.

Or follow me on Twitter!