Mesa board signs employer statement of support for Guard and Reserve

The Mesa Public Schools governing board unanimously approved a resolution to sign the Employer Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve after a presentation by Rick Palmiter, Arizona state chair of Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), and testimony from Sam Neete, a U.S. Marine Corps reservist and Red Mountain High School security monitor.

Mr. Palmiter thanked the district for support to reservists and encouraged the board to sign a framed statement of support for display across district facilities. "I want to seed a little bit of my time to Sam to say thank you himself," Palmiter said, introducing Mr. Neete.

Mr. Neete told the board that the district’s willingness to accommodate reservists makes it possible for staff to serve in uniform without choosing between military and civilian responsibilities. "Mesa public schools has shown what it looks like to truly support those who serve," he said.

President Davis called for a motion; the resolution was moved, seconded and adopted by a 5–0 vote. Board members gathered afterward for a photograph with reservists and ESGR representatives.

What’s next: The district will sign and display the statement of support and invited any guard or reserve members to join a photo opportunity with the board.