Collaborative efforts

School Administrator, Jan, 2005 by Eugene Hertzke

Elaine Klein's Focus article, "Forging Partnerships To Meet Family Needs" (August 2004), was well done, and it reminded me of the efforts Central Kitsap School District went through about 15 years ago during my time as superintendent.

We started with a volunteer coordinator who helped us on our local Navy bases. Shortly she was a half-time paid coordinator and then became full time. She became one of our most valuable staff members and eventually became president of our local chamber of commerce.

Our school district also received one of the first national awards for partnerships and we made presentations at many national conventions. Like Klein's efforts in Frederick County, Md., our partnerships brought many community resources together in the school district.

EUGENE HERTZKE Retired Superintendent, Mill Creek, Wash.