Stewart Not Sure About Running Again

School board president Andre Stewart hasn't decided whether to run for re-election. He isn't questioning his commitment to public schools, but Stewart and his wife, , are sending their oldest son to St. Patrick-St. Vincent Catholic High School.

There were many reasons for the decision, including the school's Catholic education, the focus on college preparatory classes and Stewart's position on the board. "It's hard to put your kids in high school when you are a school board member," he said.

"I think the public will see it as me not being sincere," he said. "This (being a school board member) isn't a stepping stone for higher office. I just sincerely care about schools."

Stewart said he believes that as the state continues to cut money for education, parents will continue to take their kids out of the public school system and move them to private schools where the focus is on college preparatory programs.  

"We will continue to lose the kids we want in our schools because there are other options," said Stewart.

Of his son, Stewart said, "He's a Junior National Honor (Society) student. His grades are phenomenal."

Stewart said there he has unfinished business on the school board but is concerned that his decision about his son will affect voters. "I think there will be a lot of public backlash and I don't know how to handle it," he said.