I believe strong public schools are the backbone of a thriving community. They shape not only future opportunities but also the long-term strength of our city. When schools struggle, the effects ripple outward—impacting property values, workforce readiness, and even Dover’s ability to attract new families and businesses. Education isn’t just a budget line; it’s an investment in the vitality of our entire community.
A Tale of Two Schools
A quality education can change the course of a life. I am living proof. I spent my K-8 years in rural Florida schools that were poorly funded and where teachers did their best with limited resources. Parents and students often just went through the motions. Only 85% of my district’s seniors graduated high school, and few went on to college or trade programs. Most ended up in low-paying or higher-paying dangerous jobs. My future was already an uphill climb.
But by sheer luck, I was zoned for a different high school than 97% of my classmates. I was bused 30 minutes to a new school in a wealthy Tampa suburb—one with engaged parents, teachers who aimed high, and students who expected success. Per-pupil funding was identical to the other high school, but the outcomes couldn’t have been more different. The difference wasn’t money—it was mindset, engagement, and accountability.
Spending Without Results
The Dover School District FY2025 budget is $78 million. We are investing more in education than ever before, but the results are not keeping pace. That is not sustainable. The question isn’t whether Dover supports education—we clearly do—but whether we are getting the accountability, transparency, and results our community deserves. Every tax dollar represents the hard work of our residents, and we have an obligation to make sure it delivers real value.
Accountability doesn’t mean cutting corners or assigning blame; it means setting clear expectations, measuring progress honestly, and adjusting when things aren’t working. In August, I met Dr. Christine Boston, our new Superintendent. I was struck by both her expertise and her candor—she recognizes that the district must improve, and that rising tax burdens are weighing heavily on residents.
In 2024, just 54% of Dover students met or exceeded English benchmarks, and only 39% did so in math. These results should concern all of us. I am not blaming students, teachers, or families, but it’s clear that our current approach is not working. In a city that devoted major attention to a $20 million sports facility update, we must demand at least equal urgency in addressing academic performance.
A is for Accountability, B is for School Board, and C is for City Council
Dr. Boston and I agree: the path forward must be built on a strong plan, clear metrics, transparency, and a willingness to adapt. She shared the Dover School District Strategic Plan (2025–2030), and I was impressed. With nearly 30 years in the corporate world, I can say this is one of the best strategic frameworks I’ve seen—well-defined pillars, measurable goals, and a public commitment to track and share progress. Most importantly, Dr. Boston has pledged that if something isn’t working, the district will change course. That is leadership.
But accountability cannot rest with the district alone. Dover’s City Council must do its part — listening to the school board chosen by Dover’s citizens, asking the right questions to understand how priorities are set, and weighing the consequences of funding levels to ensure we meet our goals at the best value possible.
A Higher Standard for Dover
Dover has the talent and resources to do better. Improvement requires leadership that demands accountability, supports transparency, and insists on results. I believe Dover can raise expectations for its schools—and meet them. If we do, the dollars we invest will create the strong, effective school system our community both needs and deserves. That’s not just a goal; it’s a responsibility.
