Photo submitted by Joshua Monte

Meet the candidates column 
The Huron Hub
Posted Sept. 15, 2020

Editor’s note: As the 2020 election draws near, the residents in Huron Township would like to hear more about each candidate that is running for office or reelection.

Recently, every person running on the Huron Township ballot was invited to use The Huron Hub as a platform to get their voice heard. All letters in this column are submitted by the candidates themselves and are not edited by Huron Hub staff.

Readers can access all candidate letters on a special section of HuronHub.com HERE. 

The following letter was submitted by Joshua Monte: 

ABOUT ME:

My name is Joshua Monte, I grew up in Belleville and have been a resident of Huron Township for 18 years. I’ve been married to my wife, Jill, for 20 years and have two daughters, Lila and Lauren, who attend Renton Junior High School. I have been in law enforcement for over 25 years, and currently serve as a Captain with the City of Romulus.
My family chose to move to Huron Township for two reasons; the safety of the community and the quality of education the Huron School District provides.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University (EMU) and a Master’s Degree in Technology Studies from EMU. I am also a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. I have experience in strategic planning, developing and maintaining a large budget, grant writing, and policy development. I’ve gained great insight and experience by participating in union contract negotiations as a union president, and recently from the employer side of the bargaining table.

WHY I’M PURSUING A SCHOOL BOARD SEAT:

I believe that children are the foundation of our community and it is the duty of our school system to provide a safe, quality education in order to facilitate their educational and emotional growth.
I was raised with deep roots in public education. My father was a public school teacher and principal for over 40 years, and served an additional few years as principal of St. Stephen Catholic School. My mother retired as a public school elementary school secretary after 30 years.
With my background in education and executive-level law enforcement, I can bring a unique perspective to the school board. Having worked with boards and commissions, I understand the role the school board plays with the school district and community. I will work collaboratively with other board members, parents, school staff, and administrators using a solution-oriented approach. As a new School Board member, I will actively engage in learning new concepts and best practices, while seeking out and engaging in
learning opportunities. Many of the skills I’ve developed in public service are appropriately transferable to the school board position.
Above all, I believe in collaboration, fiscal responsibility and transparency. As a parent of two children in the district, I also understand the importance of effectively communicating decisions based on accurate information. This best practice will alleviate questions, concerns, and fears in both parents and students.

WHY I’M THE RIGHT CANDIDATE:

The global pandemic has been a challenging time for educators, parents, and particularly students. As a Board member I will advocate for the students and the district on a local and state level. I will focus on student achievement and policies that ensure success for all students. I plan to use my professional leadership and collaborative skills to assist school leadership and board members in creating an exceptional educational experience for students, while making sound fiscal decisions. I look forward to serving our community in this capacity.