As a lifelong resident of Kelseyville and a teacher for many years I have seen many teachers, principals and superintendents (local and county) come and go. All of them have made, good or not so good, impressions on someone in Lake County.

Almost 30 years ago, when I was on the Kelseyville School Board, we hired an energetic young man named Wally Holbrook to be a principal. We were not disappointed in the choice we had made. Wally took the reins and went work. He led the teachers and students in a very positive direction. Of course not all interactions went smoothly, but when do they ever. Wally has the ability to listen before jumping to a conclusion.

In later years Wally applied for and was selected to be the superintendent of the Kelseyville Unified School District. During his time as superintendent, Wally faced many difficult decisions. Being the top leader is not always popular. Wally gathered information and made informed decisions. I do feel that Wally had the students at heart.

Later Wally became a superintendent in Winters. He retired there and moved back to Kelseyville. Being the active person that Wally is, he worked for a company that mentored new administrators.

There seems to be some rumors that Wally received money from our local schools. Well, the company contracted with local schools so I would say he got paid for his services. Not too many people work at a job for free.

Wally is very committed to quality education for all of our students. Wally believes that high school students should be educated for vocational training as well as for the college system.

So please join me and vote on June 8, 2010, for Wally Holbrook, county superintendent of schools.

Jim Marschall lives in Kelseyville.