Why I, Chris Kubecka, Endorse Mary Frantz for School Board As someone who has dedicated my life to service, both in the military and beyond. I understand the importance of strong, ethical leadership, especially in times of crisis. My career has taken me from the U.S. Air Force to roles in global cybersecurity, including as the Distinguished Chair of the Cybersecurity and Emerging Technology Program at the Middle East Institute. My commitment to national security and helping others was recognized with The Order of Thor, and during my military service, I was honored with the Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award with an Oak Leaf Cluster for combat operations, and humanitarian relief efforts. But my service didn’t end when I left the military. Recently in Ukraine, I led efforts to evacuate thousands of people, including foreign students trapped in conflict zones, through a combination of intelligence and on-the-ground coordination. My work was covered in major media, where it was described as a life-saving operation during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. This is the kind of leadership that is required at every level of governance, including our local school boards. That’s why I am proud to endorse Mary Frantz for the school board. Mary embodies the principles of critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and inclusive leadership. Qualities which are essential for preparing our children for the future in a technological world. Mary’s opponents, some of whom leverage experience in the military, but I’ve seen first-hand that leadership is about more than just recruitment; it’s about taking action, making tough decisions, and always putting the well-being of others first. Whether it was in Ukraine, helping students escape a war zone, or in my work with the U.S. government, I’ve learned that true leadership requires both courage and compassion. Qualities that Mary Frantz possesses in abundance. Mary stands against the dangerous trend of banning books and limiting educational resources, claiming math curriculums are “indoctrinating” children - tactics our foreign enemies use to undermine the very foundation of our educational system, affecting our country's national defense. She believes, as I do, that education should be about empowering our children with the tools they need to think critically and solve problems in an increasingly complex world. As a woman with military experience, I understand the unique challenges we face and the importance of having leaders who not only understand those challenges but actively work to overcome them. Mary Frantz is that leader. She is committed to fostering an environment where every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed. In contrast, some of the opposing candidates represent movements that seeks to silence critical voices and limit educational opportunities, an approach that I fundamentally oppose – then they claim they are being bullied. Our children deserve a leader who for advocates for their future, not hinders it. I urge you to support Mary Frantz for the school board. Her vision for education, her commitment to critical thinking, and dedication to the community make her the best choice to lead our schools into a brighter, more inclusive future. Join me in voting for Mary Frantz, a leader who truly understands the importance of service, both in and out of uniform.