In 1913, a blind boy graduated from the Gooding School for the Deaf and Blind. His diploma read “passed satisfactory examinations in Reading, Spelling, Writing, Arithmetic, Geography, Grammar, U.S. History, Physiology and Civil Government.” That young boy was my grandfather, and for the past 33 years, his story has motivated me to challenge, not only myself to reach my goals and aspirations, but also the students and staff I influence.
I truly believe every student is gifted; they just open their packages on different days! No one is motivated by negative comments or assertions; they are motivated by encouraging words, a guiding hand when they stumble, and a respect for their individual accomplishments. As the Principal of Coeur d'Alene High School for the past 13 years, that has been the kind of caring, learning atmosphere I have created.
As a native Idahoan, I understand Idaho values and the importance Idahoans put on education and family. This state and its public education have been good to me. It's time now for me to give something back-my passion for educating kids, my vision for the future of education, and my innovative leadership.
I have not been satisfied with the status quo! I have created many unique programs, such as the senior project, skill set certificates, school with-in-a-school, academic lettering and Renaissance recognition, and the School Resource Officer Program. My school has been recognized as an Idaho Merit School for the past eight years! That is the kind of energy, innovative leadership, and dedication I offer Idaho.
The Superintendent of Public Instruction is a voting member of the State Land Board. My grandfather was a dairy farmer and my father was a logger. I was a logger, and I understand the importance of Idaho's natural resources. I am the only candidate who uses timber dollars to run a school everyday. As a member of the land board, I will strive to maximize the funds generated by Idaho's ’sacred trust’ lands for the benefit of Idaho's schools and not lock them away from the people who own them, Idahoans.
Education has not been my hobby; it has been my passion. I have committed my life to greater student achievement AND improving the learning environment for my students and staff. I am the only candidate that has been on both sides of the desk and who is presently serving as a building level administrator. I am the only candidate with 33 years in education. I am the only candidate to be named Principal of the Year. I am the only candidate to be a national presenter on collaboration in education. I am the only candidate who understands and is talking about safe schools. I am the only candidate who has the responsibility of spending education dollars everyday.
As former four-term Superintendent of Public Instruction Jerry Evans said about my candidacy, “Would you hire a captain of your ship who has never seen the ocean? Steve Casey has seen the ocean of education.”