We have had the privilege of knowing Lynn Rogers for more than 20 years. During this time, we have witnessed his dedication to his family as well as the students, parents and staff of USD 259.

As a member of the school board, Rogers has worked tirelessly to address the issues our schools face amidst the budget cuts and fiscal restraints imposed on our public schools. He understands the importance of quality education to our community and the state of Kansas. By actively listening to the concerns of those he represents and working cooperatively to create reasonable and fair solutions, Rogers has shown the kind of responsible and thoughtful leadership that Kansas needs in the Legislature.

A vote for Lynn Rogers in Senate District 25 is a vote for a better Kansas.

JERRY AND SUE STREIT, WICHITA

Letter to the Wichita Eagle, November 4, 2016

Thank you for the letter of endorsement Jerry & Sue! Our children attended Marshall Middle School and North High School together. Sue still says that success in navigating school is largely about your friends. (And rigorous curriculum.) Sue is a social worker and Jerry is a physician and master gardener, both recently retired.

I agree. Success in life is still about friends–ones who care deeply about others and help you think about solving problems. And in the case of Jerry and Sue, share a deep love for their children and grandchildren.

As we approach Election Day 2016, a clear choice is apparent in Senate District 25: Lynn Rogers.

I have known Rogers for many years, and I appreciate that as a parent, school board member or neighbor, he is always willing to listen. Whether we agree or disagree on an issue, he will listen and become as knowledgeable as possible on the issue. He communicates openly and will look at all points of view.

Vote for Lynn Rogers.

LINDA ZEHR, WICHITA

From the Wichita Eagle, November 2, 2016

Today’s letter of support comes from Linda Zehr, a newly retired math teacher and resident of District 25. I met Linda when all of our children were young and on the swim team at Twin Rivers. She has always been a strong advocate for public schools and public school teachers. I’m proud to have her support.

We recorded a piece for KMUW earlier this spring about the election. You read that here:

Feeling Barraged By Kansas Lawmakers, Educators Go After Seats In Legislature

In the midst of the ugliest and most discouraging political season we have ever witnessed, we are so pleased to have a local candidate to cheer about. We are casting our votes for Lynn Rogers for Senate, and we’re happy to tell you why.

We have known Rogers and his wife and three children for about 30 years. He is a man of sound character who is devoted to his faith, his family and his community. As the parents of children who were educated in Wichita schools, we are thankful for his 15 years of leadership on the Wichita school board.

In his years working with Kansas farmers and their families, Rogers has helped countless Kansans become financially secure and successful. We believe he understands how Kansans think and feel – the values that are important to us. We are confident he will stand for families, jobs and a better education system for all Kansas children.

Rogers has proven himself to be trustworthy and approachable, a man of integrity and character. So we will cast our votes for Lynn Rogers for Senate District 25 on Nov. 8. We urge our fellow citizens to do the same.

BILL AND LUANN TILLISON, WICHITA

From the Wichita Eagle, November 1, 2016

Bill and Lu have been strong supporters and constant sources of encouragement since I first ran for school board 15 and a half years ago. They represent many Kansans who have walked beside me in life and point out opportunities for good. On top of being friends, they are residents of Senate District 25. Thank you for your endorsement Bill and Lu!

Democrat Lynn Rogers is the clear choice to succeed outgoing Sen. Michael O’Donnell in this near-west and south Wichita district. Rogers is most known for his 15 years of service on the Wichita school board, including several stints as board president. He may understand school finance better than any current lawmaker, and his expertise is needed as the Legislature considers a new funding formula. Rogers is also very active in the community, volunteering on several boards and associations. He favors repealing the tax exemption on pass-through business income but recognizes that the state may also have to cut spending to climb out of its budget hole. “We’re broke as a state,” he said.

Republican Jim Price ran unsuccessfully for the Kansas House two years ago and for the Wichita City Council last year. He was convicted in an armed robbery in Texas in 1990 and for interfering with law enforcement officers investigating his son’s small marijuana-growing operation in 2012.

From The Wichita Eagle, Friday, October 28, 2016

Thank you editorial staff for your endorsement.