- What are the most pressing challenges facing our community at a local level right now?
The most pressing opportunity is managing growth effectively. One way to manage the school district’s enrollment growth is to proactively stay ahead of emerging needs brought on by increased enrollment through careful planning for facilities, staffing, and operational needs. We also see growth as an opportunity for partnerships between MISD and the City of Midlothian, the residents of our community, the Chamber of Commerce, local businesses and other area organizations. Together, MISD and the City of Midlothian have and will continue to proactively work together to address growth.
- Considering the evolving media landscape, what role do you see local newspapers playing in the community five years from now?
Newspapers are an important part of a community. They keep us connected and informed by giving the community a place to go in order to hear about the events and accolades that celebrate who we are. When a newspaper is vibrant, so is the community it serves. In places like Midlothian, the local newspaper truly connects us all and in the next five years I think our local paper will continue to be a great source of pride for Midlothian. During that time, it will be important for the paper to remain relevant. That can be accomplished by continuing to build relationships and focusing on connecting with those we serve.
- In your opinion, what role should our newspaper play in promoting civic participation and community involvement?
A local newspaper should actively promote civic participation and community involvement. There are a lot of organizations that people can be involved with, and the paper can be a source of information about those opportunities like serving on a city, community or school district committee. Keeping a focus on informing the community can foster a sense of belonging and encourage community engagement and support for where we live and work.
- What community events or activities do you believe our newspaper should cover to better connect with our residents?
What makes Midlothian a truly special place to live are the wide variety of community and school-based events and activities that are always happening. The newspaper’s coverage of these events allows readers who cannot attend, access to feel connected to what’s happening in their town and it allows them to experience all that the community has to offer. It helps us all feel connected and it can encourage future community engagement.
- Considering the current economic landscape, how can our newspaper support local businesses and contribute to economic growth in the community?
Newspapers are a reflection of our community. Sharing positive stories is an important strategy to help grow Midlothian’s economic landscape. A community newspaper can actively support local businesses and contribute to economic growth through business features and spotlight segments that highlight economic growth, the chamber of commerce and local businesses. Newspapers can influence business in the community and help attract the attention of a business considering relocation to the area.
