SIDNEY — A desire to see the educational system in Sidney continue to improve is why Richard “Chip” Hix decided to run for a seat on the Sidney City Schools Board of Education. He was elected to office in November and was sworn in at the Jan. 13 BOE meeting.
“As the parent of two recent graduates, i have always been fairly involved with the school,” said Hix, 49. “I believe Sidney City Schools provides a great education, and I want to see that continue to improve. I saw this as an opportunity to stay involved with the school system and the Sidney community as a whole.
Hix, who is the retail banking officer/branch manager for Mutual Federal, feels his banking background will help his understanding of the financial side of being a school board member.
“It is my goal to develop a better understanding of exactly how the school system operates,” said Hix. “Sidney City Schools have made great strides in becoming financially stable by tightening the budget and living within our means. It’s a tough job to maintain academic excellence for a diverse student population, while also focusing on improving student performance and providing a safe, quality learning environment.
Funding for the district, he said, remains a top priority for the district.
“School funding continues to be a major problem,” said Hix. “The state and federal governments demand more and more, but the funding doesn’t keep up.
“Our district has operated without a permanent improvement levy since 2009. Most buildings ate 50+ years old and require a great deal of upkeep and repairs. Those funds are all coming from the general fund at this time. Passage of the upcoming PI levy in March will focus the general fund on where it needs directed: providing a superior education with top-notch teachers,” he said.
Hix and his wife, Eileen, reside at 768 E. Parkwood St. They are the parents of two children, Emily, 20, and Alex, 19. He received his bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University.
