Here's who Columbia teachers union endorsed in school board election
The Columbia teachers union has made its endorsements in the April 2 school board election, which in the recent past has ensured the victory of the candidates endorsed.
The endorsements of the Columbia Missouri National Education Association went to Alvin Cobbins and Jeanne Snodgrass.
Cobbins, Snodgrass and John Potter are running for two positions on the Columbia Board of Education in the April 2 election. The terms are three years.
“Our students and families continue to face challenges post-pandemic, and these candidates are committed to supporting our youngest community members,'' said Hickman High School teacher and CMNEA President Noelle Gilzow in the news release about the endorsements.
Cobbins said he wasn't expecting the endorsement, but he's glad to receive it.
"It's a confirmation that I'm on the right track," Cobbins said in a phone interview.
He plans to speak for people in the whole community and bridge differences, he said.
"We all have a responsibility," Cobbins said. "I'm asking people to hold me accountable."
Gilzow praised Cobbins community involvement in the news release.
“Mr. Cobbins is a community advocate who dedicates his time and resources to help our students and their families engage with their schools so they can obtain the best education our public schools have to offer," Gilzow said.
Snodgrass is the incumbent, running for her second term on the school board.
"I'm really appreciative," Snodgrass said. "It's really nice to know the teachers, who are really important to the district, have confidence in this board and allowing me to continue our work."
Snodgrass has the experience and knowledge to continue on the school board, Gilzow said.
"Ms. Snodgrass’ Board experience is valued because she is aware of the challenges students and teachers face," Gilzow wrote "She understands that policies must be in place to provide an equitable learning environment while supporting teacher retention. We are pleased that Ms. Snodgrass is willing to serve onthe Board for a second term.”
Both said despite the important endorsement, they don't take the election for granted.
"I don't think anything is guaranteed," Snodgrass said.
Potter at times has been critical of the union's power in the school district, though he has adopted some union issues, including student behavior and student cellphone use.
Roger McKinney is the Tribune's education reporter. You can reach him at rmckinney@columbiatribune.com or 573-815-1719. He's on X at @rmckiney9.
This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Here's who Columbia teachers union endorsed for school board seats
