The voters in this district can't go wrong with Colleen Grady! All due respect to Tom Patton, as he did a great job, Grady brings her background in education to the table.
Using her wealth of experience and knowledge from doing a standout job in her years as a Strongsville school board member, Grady has also served well on the State school board. At a time when the education of our children is at such a crisis - GRADY - in being elected to represent voters in District 18 will be able to hit the ground running.
From the PD --
I would be remiss if I did not mention that I am personally aware of several instances where parents from our school district have contacted Grady. From everything I have been told she showed a genuine concern about their problems and was more than helpful in giving direction on addressing the issues.Endorsement
District 18 includes Berea, Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township, North Royalton, Lakewood, Cleveland Wards 17, 18 and parts of Wards 4 and 19.
THE CANDIDATES:
Colleen Grady , 52, is an accountant who served seven years as a Strongsville school board member. Since 2005, she has been an elected member of the State Board of Education. She has a bachelor's degree in finance from the University of Nebraska.
Matthew Patten , 46, is a labor-management coordinator who works with public officials to implement safety and health policies on construction projects. He attended the University of Toledo and the National Labor College.
OUR VIEW:
Patten, a Democrat making his first race for elected office, hopes to capitalize on the fact that for the last six years this district has been represented by a Republican with a similar name. He has a pleasant disposition and a decent grasp of the issues, and probably would serve adequately.
But Grady, a Republican, is an outstanding candidate -- far superior to her opponent and one of the most impressive candidates we have interviewed in this election season. She would bring thoughtful ideas to the debate on how Ohio funds education, not just the platitudes most legislators offer. And she has an impressive understanding of the role education plays in economic development. This contest is a mismatch. Grady should be elected.
With the sad condition our state and education is facing today along with the hurdles we must overcome in the future, Grady is truly the first step in the right direction!
