Solon Names In the News: School Board President Margo Morrow

Editor's Note: This is the first installment in a new regular series called Names in the News. In it, we will feature movers and shakers in the Solon community, both the obvious ones and the less so. Know a person we should feature? Tell us in an e-mail to chrism@patch.com

This year, Margo Morrow is serving as president of the . She has been a Solon resident for more than 35 years and a board member for more than 14 years.

Morrow has helped lead Solon Schools to excellence. We asked her some questions so our readers could get to know her better!

Solon Patch: Why do you like serving in public office?

Margo Morrow: I was blessed with parents who taught me the value and importance of being aware of the needs of others and to always participate in the community where you live. My personal belief is that as a resident of Solon I need to be involved in a positive manner to keep Solon strong. I have been involved with Solon City Schools since our move to Solon in 1976 and have served on the School Board since 1997. I have great respect for the school district and all that it represents to the city of Solon as a whole.

Patch: Why do you enjoy living in Solon?

Morrow: I obviously believe that Solon City Schools are a major asset to the city. In 1976, we moved to Solon because of the excellence of the schools. Solon Schools have met the challenges and have been able to present an excellent education for all of our children while staying within its resources.

I am a cheerleader for the . It is well located, allowing easy access to downtown Cleveland with the museums, symphony, Broadway plays, Lake Erie, and great restaurants. Solon is also close to the Metoparks, a variety of outdoor activities and rural Ohio. The City of Solon has developed into a strong municipality where the city and school district work well together. The city provides multigenerational opportunities with , a philharmonic orchestra, and an excellent . On the practical side, our taxes are lower than other communities and our city services are excellent.

I love the ; in fact my neighborhood is a mini U.N. The diversity provides us all with opportunities and an exciting exchange of ideas and flavor.

Patch: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Solon Schools in the next five years?

Morrow: The Board and Administration of the district never rest. We are constantly working to move ahead and provide our students, K – 12, with comprehensive opportunities and experiences to grow and succeed in an ever changing world.

continues to be a challenge. The funding of Ohio schools is a critical issue and remains unresolved. Our school district continues to be actively engaged in Columbus. We appreciate the strong and ongoing support of our Solon and Glenwillow communities.

The since the tremendous growth in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. With the leveling, we are constantly evaluating the use of our staff and facilities.

Patch: If you could alter one thing about the way education is handled in Ohio what would you change?

Morrow: I challenge the legislators in Columbus to understand that all school districts are not the same. Funding is one issue where legislators need to work on solutions collaboratively with the education community. The legislature cannot view districts with “a one size fits all” approach. Communities, school districts and students are all unique and diverse.

Patch: What is your proudest accomplishment as a school board member?

Morrow: As president of the school board, on May 31st, I will have the privilege of . As I watch each student cross the stage, I will see their smiling faces and celebrate their educational journey at Solon City Schools. These graduates didn’t just meet requirements, but had the best opportunities and experiences academically, in the fine arts and athletics.

Patch: What’s your favorite thing to do in your free time?  

Morrow: I am a life-time learner, a voracious reader and love to explore and investigate new thoughts and ideas. My husband and I truly enjoy Lake Erie and being outdoors. We spend our free time in Lakeside, Ohio. I am also a member of the Lakeside Chautauqua Board of Directors. We hike, swim and enjoy the various outside experiences that our area offers. Wherever you go, people are fabulous and I learn something with each conversation. Also, you can’t live in Cleveland and not enjoy the variety of restaurants along with the uniqueness of the food that they offer.