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My Application Letter to the Board

July 12, 2008

Mr. Steve Percival

Fayetteville Board of Education

PO Box 849

Fayetteville, Arkansas 72702-0849

Dear Mr. Percival:

I wish to offer myself as a candidate for the At-Large position on the Fayetteville Public Schools board that has been created by the resignation of John Delap. Please contact me if there is any additional information you need from me beyond this letter and the enclosed resume, or if I will need to attend the July 15 special meeting. I understand that if I am appointed to this position in the special meeting I will additionally need to run for the position in the September 16 school board election.

I offer seven reasons why I believe I could help the school board as a fellow worker with you.

1. I care about public education as a citizen and a parent. I have seen how public education is crucial in the lives of my three FHS high school graduates (24 total years in Fayetteville public schools). I also understand how excellent schools affect civic pride, property values, and the sense of unity in such a diverse place as Fayetteville.
2. I believe in the unique possibilities of the Fayetteville school system. We should achieve greatness if we harness our small community values, our connections with the university, the variety of passions in our citizens, and our relevance to a growing business community.
3. I am committed to Fayetteville, my home of 13 years. My company is based in Fayetteville. My role is almost certain to remain in Fayetteville. One son is returning to Arkansas for graduate school. My wife’s work can be done from Fayetteville. An alignment like I’ve never known before.
4. I have been an Impact Award-winning high school classroom teacher, department co-chair, and athletic coach. The five years I took out of my business career to teach American Literature at Fayetteville and Springdale high schools gave me many lessons to reflect on as a leader on a school board.
5. I have served the district with distinction outside of the years of my employment. Recently as a member of the High School Select Committee II and previously as volunteer of the year at Woodland Junior High (2000). Plus I was the voice of the Woodland Cowboys and the Fayetteville Bulldogs (football and basketball) at various times!
6. My perspective will be informed by 20 years of business experience and an MBA education.
7. I am in a lifestage where service is a possibility and a strong desire. I’m a young empty nester with a faith that calls me to serve.

Steve, I look forward to hearing from the board. Thanks for your consideration.

Mike Malony

479-263-6040

mmalony@gmail.com