MU professor to run for open school board seat

COLUMBIA - MU psychology professor Ines Segert kicked off her campaign for a seat on the Columbia Public School Board on Sunday at the home of Allison and Mike Martin.

Segert criticized the current board, speaking against some of the “strikingly poor curriculum decisions in our schools” as well as an administration that she said withheld information.

“I want public information made public,” Segert said.

Segert said major issues facing the board candidates will be the tax levy, problems with the curriculum and a lack of transparency in the board’s decision-making processes.

Segert cited the new Math Advisory Committee as an example and said that if the committee only advises but makes no actual decisions, then “what’s the point?”

Mike Martin, creator of Columbia Heart Beat blog, said the attitude of the current administration is, “open your wallet and shut your mouth.” He said Segert represents a change from that.

Segert participated in the open house to hear the views of people who live in the community and to raise money for campaign expenses. More campaign events are planned; the next is scheduled for Sunday.