My name is Mark Aasen and I am running for the Fayette County Board of Education, Post 3. I would like to introduce myself and the reasons why I am running, and what I hope to bring to the position.

I graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a degree in biology. I served seven years in the United States Navy as a naval aviator. After leaving the U.S. Navy, I began a career as a pilot for Delta Air Lines.

I moved to Fayette County in 1998 with my wife, Tina, and two sons, Davis and Grant, both students at Rising Starr Middle School.

I am running for the Board of Education for several reasons. First, I believe that quality education for our children is the highest priority we have as parents and society. I also believe that the Board of Education is most effective when comprised of concerned parents as well as educators and administrators.

My priorities are:

• Put in place a coherent, sensible redistricting plan. The current strategy results in uncertainty and upheaval for everyone involved.

• Work with the board to ensure that the fiscal policies prioritize funding so that all teachers and students have the best environment for learning and the tools to succeed. With the economy tightening, we will need to plan ahead to adequately and correctly fund our school system.

• Establish and uphold the highest ethical standards for the board.

• Prepare Fayette County for anticipated changes to the adult and vocational education system so as to best serve all citizens of Fayette County.

• Establish consistent, enforceable policies to ensure that only Fayette residents use the schools that your tax dollars support.

Fayette County has a great school system. I hope to continue that tradition and help to make it better. As a board member, I will bring strong leadership, business experience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence for Fayette County Schools.

Mark Aasen

Fayetteville, Ga.