January is School Board Appreciation Month, a time to recognize the dedicated individuals who help shape the future of education in our community. At Saginaw ISD, we are proud to celebrate the invaluable contributions of our Board of Education members who work tirelessly to serve our students, staff, and local districts. As part of this celebration, we sat down with our board members to learn more about their experiences, backgrounds, and their vision for the future of Saginaw ISD. Through this special blog series, "Our Board, Our Story™," we invite you to get to know the passionate leaders who are committed to empowering student success and making a positive impact on education every day.
Stay tuned as we share their stories and highlight the incredible work they do to support education across our county!
Up next in our series is Ruth Ann Knapp, Treasurer of the Saginaw ISD Board of Education. With a strong dedication to transparency and communication, she works to ensure that the broader community understands the role of the ISD and the services it provides.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WANT TO JOIN THE BOARD IN THE FIRST PLACE?
Many schools in the county are not fully aware of the work the ISD does. I joined the board to help bridge that gap and communicate more information directly to them.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR ROLE AS A BOARD MEMBER?
Communication—both ways—is critical. Transparency with the entire community, not just with superintendents, is an essential part of my role.
HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR WORK IMPACT THE COMMUNITY ON A DAILY BASIS?
People need access to information about the ISD and its processes, especially since they do not directly vote for representation in ISD Board elections. By ensuring this information is available and easily understood, I hope to increase awareness and engagement with the ISD’s work.
WHERE DO YOU SEE SAGINAW ISD IN 5 YEARS?
I hope that the best interests of students remain at the forefront of everything we do. It is important that we continue to focus on student success and avoid political or territorial conflicts that could distract from our mission.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF BEING ON TWO BOARDS?
I have separate computers for each governmental entity, which helps me keep my responsibilities organized. I also make sure to manage my schedule carefully so that I do not miss any meetings. When needed, I rely on information from the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) and Brad Banasek for legal guidance regarding potential conflicts of interest. As long as I do not personally benefit from a decision, I am confident in my ability to serve both boards effectively.
WHAT ARE SOME SIMILARITIES OR DIFFERENCES YOU SEE BETWEEN THE TWO?
In my opinion, direct communication with citizens is essential, and I make sure to be accessible for conversations at community events. A key difference is that on the ISD Board, we only employ the superintendent, so I credit decisions to the appropriate individuals who make them. My hope is that by providing more information about the ISD’s work, we will gain greater support for the students and communities we serve.
ABOUT OUR BOARD OF EDUCATION
The Saginaw ISD Board of Education meets at 5:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month (unless otherwise noted) at the Saginaw Intermediate School District Transitions PD Center. Special meetings and/or alternate meeting locations are made by the call of the chair. Alternative locations include:
Transitions PD Center, 3860 Fashion Square Boulevard, Saginaw
Millet Learning Center, 3660 Southfield Drive, Saginaw
Hartley Outdoor Education Center, 12633 Beaver Road, St. Charles