In 2006, Justin founded J Miller Excavating LLC, contributing to infrastructure and growth across many of the new neighborhoods in the region. His hands-on understanding of development, land use, and long-term planning brings a grounded, community-centered perspective to the school board. As a parent, business owner, and current board director, I am seeking re-election to continue serving Mars families with practicality, transparency, and integrity.
The 228 Times: Why are you running?
Justin Miller: To give back to the community that has been good to me.
The 228 Times: What’s your view on growth and development and its impact on the school district?
Justin Miller: We are not going to stop the growth in the area. I don’t like how fast it’s happening. The burden it is putting on the school district is immense. Not only is it additions to schools, its teachers, custodians, maintenance workers, bussing. It’s a huge impact on the district. With most of the districts funding comes from local taxpayers it’s hard to maintain the budget. There are certain programs and services the school district by law have to provide to students. With more students come more cost obviously.
The 228 Times: How do you see the role of the school board in community engagement?
Justin Miller: We represent the taxpayers that elected us. Therefore I make my decisions based on what I think the majority of people would like.
The 228 Times: What are your top two priorities if elected?
Justin Miller: See the MAE project to completion. Try to get the budget to level off and keep the districts costs from skyrocketing.
The 228 Times: How should the district balance academics, extracurriculars, and finances?
Justin Miller: Academic is the most important. Extracurricular activities are important. However, there is a ceiling for activities. If the district doesn’t have the funds to provide some extracurricular activities, then we need to weigh where we can cut some costs.
The 228 Times: What are your thoughts on the financial impact of cyber and charter schools on the district, and how should the school board respond?
Justin Miller: The state needs to regulate the tuition of cyber and charter schools. So they all cost around the same money per year. I recognize the need for them and realize they are here to stay. We need to have some oversight by the state, so our local taxpayers aren’t having to foot the bill of an overpriced charter school.