St Croix County Schools

Family: daughter Mattie, Kailee and son Logan, All recent Hudson High School graduates

Occupation: Project Manager, Bremer Bank

Prior political positions: 6 years on Hudson School Board (Current Vice President)

Education: UW Eau Claire, Chippewa Valley Technical College

Question 1. Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

I have been very involved in the Hudson community for almost 30 years. I have teachers in the family and have a unique friend network with teachers and administrator that gives an insight to the needs of our district. I have been attending school board meetings for over 25 years and served on numerous committees to identify and hire quality school leaders including the superintendent, and to drive support for needed referendums to support our schools including the High School remodel. I served on the recent construction committee as I have a facilities and construction background. As a parent, I have enjoyed having 3 children go through the Hudson school system start to finish and that experience is critical to understanding what our students and families experience. I serve as a board member of the Hudson Community Foundation as well as volunteer positions with numerous parent booster and sports/fine arts associations. While I serve as a non-partisan board member, I understand that I am elected by the community as a whole and I listen and respect all input I receive. I have served as board Vice President for the last 2 years and am very proud of the results shown in the many facets of our high performing school community.

Question 2. What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

Maintaining small class sizes and high quality programming that our community expects, while also dealing with declining enrollment and the reductions in funding from state and Federal education spending.

Adding needed resources to understand and recover from mental health effects that our students are dealing with as a result of Covid and the pause in in-person learning.

Continuing to attain and retain quality teaching and support staff. Hudson competes for staff from not just our surrounding state districts but also neighboring districts in Minnesota where compensation competition is at a higher level than in Wisconsin.

Question 3. What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?

Every student must feel safe and respected. I support policies that do not violate state and federal laws (which would jeopardize funding) and follow common sense policies, respecting concerns of parents, students and the Hudson community. I am pleased with our policies and procedures as they are and will have an open mind as potential changes come up viewed through a lens of parent involvement and student safety. Any more specific or personal opinions from an elected board member would only set up potential controversy that we hope to avoid. Board members must represent the community as a whole.

Question 4. Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

I bring a measured approach to responding hot-topic controversial issues. Most of these issues are the result of confusion in terminology. Transparent communication and making sure parent, student and community voices are heard solves most concerns. I reply personally to every communication I receive as a board member. Public education is an increasingly easy target in politically divided communities. I believe very strongly that school board members must be non-partisan and listen to the concerns of all, while making decisions that affect so many students and families. I take that responsibility very seriously.

Question 5. What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

From a state perspective that all districts are dealing with, in my opinion, the biggest threat to public education is the current funding policies that do not take into account inflation or the cost of living. This is why we see so many districts having to continually ask for operational referendums to operate in the black. It can’t continue and most legislators know it. Also in regards to Hudson, the voucher system as it stands punishes districts with high performing schools.

Family: Wife (42 years), 3 adult sons (Ages 40, 33, 31)

Occupation: retired

Prior political positions: none

Education: Yes

Question 1. Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

A. Lifelong educator in public schools, private schools, and industrial education

B. 20+ years of non-profit board experience

Question 2. What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

A. FAMILY VALUES – All curriculum should conform to the original public school mission for Wisconsin. “Religion, Morality and Knowledge, being necessary for good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged.”

B. FISCAL FRUGALITY – With a declining enrollment our school budget should be shrinking, not growing.

C. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE – Focus our curriculum on the academic educational basics.

Question 3. What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?

I am a father in a multiracial family. I have three sons, each of a different racial and ethnic background. This issue is personal to me.

We live in a time and place that finds families, like mine, common place. Today in our country approximately 1 in 5 marriages are interracial marriages. Most Americans have moved beyond racial differences and know that success in contemporary society is based on merit and hard work.

DEI policies’ sole purpose is to create animosity and division among Americans. The general public has moved beyond the bigotry promoted by DEI. It is time to remind our schools and other institutions that Americans now embrace the “All men are created equal” clause of the Declaration of Independence. It is time for our school policies to throw DEI on the “ash heap of history”, as we have for anti-miscegenation and Jim Crow laws.

Question 4. Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

Our district has more than 1 in 8 children receiving their education in private schools or home schooling. Our public schools are creating a hostile environment for families that want their children to be exposed to traditional family values. Rather than adjust our curriculum to affirm the religious and moral traditions that have made our schools great for decades, the district policies continue to ostracize families.

I intend to represent these families.

Question 5. What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

A. Change the mission statement of the Hudson Schools to the original mission for public schools in Wisconsin, “Religion, Morality and Knowledge, being necessary for good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged.” Hire and train teachers, administrators and staff who embrace this mission. Establish financial rewards for staff that produce results that affirm the mission.

B. The Hudson Schools voluntarily provide the funding for all the families in our district, including those who have been forced to seek educational alternatives to preserve their family’s values.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Family: My husband, Jerry, and I have lived in the Hudson area for over 15 years, first in North Hudson and now in the Town of Hudson. We have two children who attend Hudson Middle School.

Occupation: I have spent my entire career in public health working on research projects, developing health policies and programs, facilitating professional learning communities, and developing and implementing strategic plans – all in service of improving the quality of living and health outcomes across communities. I currently work remotely for a non-profit respiratory care hospital based in Denver, CO.  My role as a Senior Manager is to work with state health departments across the US to operate and improve services for adults and youth who want to quit using tobacco. 

 Prior political positions:  None 

 Education: 

• BA in Psychology from the College of St. Benedict  
• MPH from Boston University School of Public Health  

Question 1:  Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board? 

Over the years, I have volunteered and helped in various ways to support our schools. Like many parents in the early years, I helped with the fun and chaotic holiday parties and by chaperoning field trips. I have also had the opportunity to participate in committees such as the Elementary Re-boundary Committee in 2018, the Human Growth and Development Committee in 2023 and currently participate in the Teaching and Learning Committee. During the pandemic, I temporarily supported lunchroom/recess duties and had a front-row seat to the extraordinary dedication of Hudson School District to keeping kids in school. Their efforts cannot be applauded enough. I volunteer for the Hudson Backpack program and chair the Vibrant Communities Fund, run by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, which focuses grant funding to support organizations working to address mental health needs in our community. These experiences have shown me the deep commitment our community has to Hudson schools and each to other. I truly believe our community sees that we thrive when everyone is supported.  My career has taught me to utilize and value quantitative and qualitative data – the numbers help us identify areas of concern, and the stories help us better understand the “why” and how to help address those areas of concern. I have had the privilege of collaborating with public and private sectors to translate research and data into actionable programs and policy initiatives. I spend a fair amount of my time leading or listening to focus groups and community conversations to better understand an issue and help identify options for how best to move forward. I have a strong understanding of how state and federal legislation direct and impact funding streams, the importance of policy, and the distinction between setting policy (which is what the Board does) and implementation of policy (which is what the administration does).

Question 2: What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district? 

Hudson is a wonderful district with so much going well, but as with anything, we have some challenges. The issues we face will require us to work together to find solutions to ensure Hudson remains a supportive and healthy place for our kids to grow and thrive. The top issues the district faces include: 

Operational Budget 

We have a funding issue for our schools. There are finite resources and the state funding formula puts our district at a disadvantage. The coming gaps in Hudson’s operational budget are significant and cannot be filled through one-time grants. The post-referendum community survey identified that 70% of respondents would recommend Hudson schools to others, yet nearly 43% did not vote or voted no on the referendum. These data indicate we have a significant portion of our community that we need to engage with more to help identify common priorities and appetite for a new operational referendum. In the end, the Board and Administration will need to find a path forward that keeps District expenditures within funding limits.  

Staffing 

While buildings provide tangible structures that our entire community sees and connects with, it is the staff who are the backbone of the District. Teachers engage with our children every day, using their training to teach our children important skills and help set a foundation for students to become life-long learners. With children in the district, I have seen firsthand the impact of not having sufficient staff. This year my son’s science teacher, new to the district, resigned within the first month of the school year resulting in a long-term sub taking over the class. Staffing issues are not unique to Hudson, it is happening within the larger ecosystem of teacher burnout, fewer people going into the teaching profession, and overall worker shortages. Finding and retaining staff is an issue every industry (public and private) is facing. The Board and Administration have been working on ways to recruit and retain staff – from offering sign-on bonuses, offering staff access to child care in the District, creating more recognition opportunities, and implementing a new compensation structure. Even with these efforts, staffing will remain a critical issue for the District. We need strong qualified teachers and staff. 

Mental Health 

The mental health and well-being of our students and staff remain an important issue for HSD and our community. The data continue to show more people are not doing okay – from feeling consistent levels of sadness and hopelessness to increases in depression and anxiety. Our local data align with state and national data which find:  

• 4 in 10 students reported they felt persistently sad or hopeless.[1] 
• Nearly one-third reported they experienced poor mental health in the past 12 months.[1] 
• 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in a given year.[2] 

The District’s Mental Health Task Force was an important tool for engaging the community in understanding the issue and connecting families and students with resources. I would like to see that task force reconvened in partnership with the community, mental health providers, faith community and public health. Addressing mental health will require strong collaboration and partnership across our community. The District’s commitment to addressing mental health is evident in their co-location of mental health services within school buildings, offering Mental Health First Aid training, and launching the Speak Up Speak Out app – all strong achievements. While these efforts are critical, they primarily address the issue at the individual and family level. I believe we must continue the conversation about larger system-level changes within the District to ensure we are supporting positive mental health and well-being for students and staff. 

Question 3: What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?  

First, I think it is important to define what is meant by DEI. Diversity relates to the characteristics and elements of a person’s life, such as age, income level, abilities/disabilities, geography, culture, learning style, gender, ethnicity, religion/faith, lived experiences, family makeup, and political beliefs. Equity means we are supporting each student and ensuring they have what they need to be successful learners. Inclusion means we are actively seeking to welcome, connect with, respect, and support all our students and their families. I would support Hudson School District working in partnership with students, teachers/staff, parents, and the community to create a mission and vision statement that speaks to these important and intertwined concepts. 

Question 4: Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy? 

I believe every person deserves respect and kindness in every conversation. Until we walk in another’s shoes or stand in their viewpoint, we cannot fully understand our world or our community. Life has shown me the importance of listening first to understand before responding.  

Question 5: What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?   

As I indicated earlier, I believe we must continue the conversation about larger system-level changes within the District to ensure we are supporting positive mental health and well-being for students and staff. 

 

Family:  I’ve been married for 30 years to my husband Pat who is a CPA and president of Olsen Thielen & Co., Ltd. My kids, Benjamin and Amelia, graduated from Hudson High School in 2021. Ben attends Creighton University in Omaha, NE. Amelia attended University of St. Thomas. I also have two dogs, Indigo, a feisty Yorkshire Terrier, and Piper, a sweet Cavalier. 

Occupation: Part-time bookkeeper 

Prior political positions: member of Hudson School Board 

Education: Gustavus Adolphus College, BA in History and Political Science, 1991 

Completed coursework for a M.A. T. (Master of Arts in Teaching) in Secondary Ed Social Studies at UW-River Falls 

Question 1: Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board? 

My husband Pat and I have lived in Hudson for 30 years and have 2 children (Benjamin and Amelia) who graduated from Hudson High School in 2021. My heart and passion is for volunteering, education and children. I was raised in a family where we were taught to think of others before ourselves. We were taught to help out where we could and leave things better than we found them. Because I’ve been a full time “stay-at-home” mom and part-time employee, I’ve been able to volunteer in the community and in schools.  

I served on the Executive Board of the Hudson Backpack Program. I was part of the leadership of the “Vote Yes” group that supported the Hudson High School renovations in 2016. I currently serve on the board of the Hudson Student Alcohol Free Events (SAFE) which hosts the Senior All Night Party and has sponsored mental health education events/expert panel discussions at Hudson High School. I am member and volunteer at Bethel Lutheran Church including previously serving on the church council and preschool board.  

Question 2: What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district? 

The top priority for Hudson School District is declining enrollment. Not only does it negatively impact funding, it also impacts our ability to fill our classrooms. As a member of the school board, I am committed to staying in a “holding pattern” for the next couple years and keeping all schools open as we look for solutions. While we try to keep schools open, I do not support sacrificing teachers or quality of education. I am open to increasing the number of students through open enrollment, marketing our district as a destination school district, building on the unique character of each elementary school to draw families to our schools and considering any other creative solution that might be offered.  

A second priority is continuing to attract and retain high quality teachers and support staff that we currently have in our district. I support the district continuing to provide good benefits and salaries in order to achieve that goal. The great teachers in Hudson School District bring about great results and we need to support them.  

A third priority is continuing to grow and sustain our mental health supports of all kids and staff. Many of us have experienced how difficult it can be to find mental health treatment in our community and state. I’m thankful that schools will receive about $30 more per pupil after the last state budget. Even though it’s not a huge sum of money, it’s something. I will continue to advocate that school districts need the state government to work together to address this critical issue. School districts and families cannot do it alone. 

Question 3:  What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?  

All students should feel safe in the educational setting, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, color, and/or religion. Specifically, I support zero tolerance for bullying, along with subsequent work on skills that can help students repair relationships and prevent future behavioral challenges.  

Diversity, whether it’s gender or ethnicity or race, in any setting is important. As a public school, we are tasked with educating all students and part of that education is preparation for a diverse world. Gender and racially/ethnic diverse business teams are more profitable than groups that are homogenous (see 2021 study by McKinsey & Company).  

As a member of the school board, we have set policies that encourage parents to be a part of their student’s education and offer options if a family’s values do not conform with a particular educational unit. For example, our community led health and human growth education committee came up with a new Pre-K-12 policy dealing with important health and safety issues. When it’s time to discuss sexuality in Health class, a parent might feel that their student is not ready for this topic or the topic doesn’t align with their beliefs. In this case the policy is that all families must OPT IN not opt out of this unit. I believe this to be a respectful stance for families to grant permission on this topic while still encouraging families who are comfortable to move forward. A good education includes parents as a participant.

Question 4:  Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy? 

I think I have the skills to lead during challenging times. During the pandemic, people expressed their opinions passionately in person at board meetings and online. As a board, we needed to balance science, educational needs and multiple points of view. In approaching that particular time, I feel that I listened to the community, students and parents alike.  

My mindset is that I assume good intentions from all; I treat everyone with respect; I listen to my colleagues with an open mind and try to find common ground. I continue to read, learn and grow in my knowledge of educational and board policy. My sole agenda is the success of all children in our school district.   

Question 5: What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?   

I would like to see a change in the funding mechanism of public education in the state of Wisconsin. 

Our current funding model is partly based on enrollment meaning if you have more students, you receive more state funding and if you have fewer students you receive less state funding. These seems fair on the surface. However declines in student enrollment don’t always fall perfectly in line with how the schools are operated.  For example, we may have a  decrease in enrollment by a total of 25 students and accordingly 1 classroom teacher but those 25 students are across many grade levels and different classrooms. You lose that funding but you still need to fully staff for all classrooms.   

The funding model further doesn’t allow for any extra maintenance so when a school needs capital improvements, the only way a school district can fund those improvements is through a referendum.  

In addition, the state provides for voucher and charter schools which are funded by our tax dollars. For a child that wants to go to a voucher school, the funding comes from their resident school district. The total statewide aid reduction per year is about $306,000,000 which is 5.72% of general school aids (2023-24 estimates per Wisconsin Association of School Business Officials) which is covered by property taxes. 

Hudson School District is not alone in facing funding issues. In Spring 2023, 53 school districts in Wisconsin had operating referendums to exceed state-imposed revenue limits on the ballot. Hudson School District’s operational referendum did not pass in 2023 which is something we will need to address in the future. Wisconsin school district’s need a better funding model because the complicated patchwork we have now is not sustainable.  

I’ve been privileged to be a part of a school board that faces these challenges head on and is taking a long-term approach based on data and what is best for students, teachers and taxpayers. 

Family: Married with two school-aged children 

Occupation: Law enforcement administrator in St. Croix County  

Prior political positions: New Richmond School Board since 2021 

Education: Bachelor’s of Science from UW-River Falls, Wisconsin Certified Public Manager from University of Wisconsin/Wisconsin DOJ  

Question 1:  Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board? 

I was inspired to run for school board in 2021 because of my two school-aged children. Watching how decisions made at the board level impact my children and their classmates has been a great experience. I have seen how decisions about budget, staffing, curriculum and policies can have long-term impacts on students and should be made thoughtfully and deliberately.  

My 17-year-long career in the public sector in New Richmond and St. Croix County has taught me that I work for the people, and the decisions I am involved in reflect on me and my community.  

Since being on the school board, I have been involved in the earliest discussions of the referendum on the ballot in April. I have enjoyed the opportunity to listen to the community and learn with them about the needs of our school district. If the community decides to pass the referendum, I believe that continuity in governance is important.  

Question 2:  What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district? 

Providing adequate facilities so students can focus on learning and becoming responsible citizens.

1. Improve student achievement by providing our district leaders with the tools to inspire students and teachers. 
2. Make the New Richmond School District a cornerstone of the area to keep and attract families. 

Question 3:  What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?  

If there are issues or policies that create conversation in the community, I would make sure that the citizens are heard and thoughtful decisions that benefit students and the district are made. I believe a school’s purpose is to focus on learning and creating inspired students while providing an atmosphere where all feel welcome.  

Question 4:  Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy? 

As a law enforcement professional, I have watched many hot-topic issues impact my profession. I am a communicator, and I believe it is right to allow people to have their voices heard. When this happens, it allows me to learn others’ points of view and grow from the experience. A high level of communication is necessary if there are questions or concerns about how a policy was implemented or how a situation was handled. Sometimes there is a need for clarification, sometimes there are disagreements and sometimes there is room for improvement.  

Question 5: What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?   

I want to support student-centered policies that increase student success by way of administrator, teacher and staff engagement in 4k-12. 

Family: Married, Wife-Laura, Son-Peter, Daughter-Megan and son-in-law – Graham(Henry).

Occupation: Licensed Insurance Agent. New Richmond Insurance Agency

Prior political positions: No political positions prior to NR Board of Education, since 2018.

Education:

1. Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

I was a youth baseball and basketball coach, from 1993-2006, including several years serving as treasurer on the Willow River Sports Association Board. I was an active member of the NR Chamber of Commerce for several years, including serving on the Board of Directors for 6 years, also serving a term as President. I was a member of the NR Rotary Club for several years, during that time, I served a term as their President. I was a proud member of the 2005 Long Range Planning Committee for the NR School District, this group helped to shape the last major construction projects in NR, that set us up for several years of growth.

2. What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

Priority # 1, is to create and maintain a culture of learning and respect for one another. This includes students, staff, and parents.

Priority # 2, is to provide a learning environment, that challenges students, and staff to grow and do better, every day. Our district motto is “Every Student Every Day”, this means that our day is not finished until every student has learned and been taught to the highest level, every day.

Priority # 3, is to make sure our students and our staff, have what they need to make priorities 1 and 2, a reality. This means, resources, facilities, technology, personnel and training, all while keeping a close eye on the money provided to the district by our taxpayers.

3. What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?

I support doing whatever it takes to ensure every student has the resources needed to have a healthy and positive learning experience, in and outside of the classroom.

4. Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

I pride myself on being an open-minded life-long learner. I am not someone that reacts to any situation before I have taken the time to learn and get informed. When dealing with any new situation, I will learn the context of what the subject is and how we got to where we are. It is my belief, that I can’t make a good decision before I understand the history of the topic, and before I have a full and complete understanding of the facts.

5. What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

I can’t think of one specific policy that I want changed, with that said, we are constantly amending current policies to make them more in line with current circumstances. As new topics and situations present themselves, our district has done a good job of adopting changes where needed.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Family: Husband Eric and two daughters that went through pre-K to graduation at Somerset- 18 and 20 years old

Occupation: Retired teacher. Now work in insurance

Prior political positions: none

Education: Bachelor of Education, Masters in Teaching and Learning, Masters in Education Administration

Question 1:  Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

As a former educator, administrator and parent of kids in the Somerset School District, I have experience with the needs and wants of the district. I understand budget challenges and how to prioritize keeping staff. I have 20 years of experience with 21st century curriculum and preparing students for success in the future.

Question 2:  What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

• Budgeting to keep staff
• Enforcing policies that allow teachers to do their job
• Create communication between all stakeholders

Question 3:  What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?

Diversity, equity and inclusion have been made to be ugly and divisive words, which is one of the reasons I could no longer teach. All three are meant to promote individualized learning, compromise and seek to help students understand they all have a place in this world. Every student deserves the best education possible. I support any policy that promotes common ground, learning history in all its facets, and promotes an increase in education geared to help students succeed in a very different world than the one I grew up in.

Question 4:  Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

I truly believe that open communication and the understanding of multiple perspectives is the only way to come to common ground. What is constructive, is doing the research and learning the facts and not giving in to fear mongering.

Question 5:  What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

Policies that support educators and 21st century curriculum goals need to be prioritized in Somerset. However, the current board’s work should not be dismissed or put aside, rather built on.

Family:  Partner, Carol; son, Ben (22)

Occupation:  Retired

Prior political positions:  None

Education:  Bachelor of Arts, Computer Science with minors in Mathematics and Economics, College of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN

Question 1: Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

Education has been an important part of my life since I was a teenager.  I was a guitar instructor at a music studio in Des Moines for 5 years and I was a teaching assistant for several of my professors during my undergraduate studies at St. Thomas.  When my son started school, besides volunteering a lot, I managed the computer labs in the elementary school for a year and a half and coached youth soccer for 5 years.  The last ten years before retirement, I worked at the Stillwater Prison, coordinating classes and activities with the men for Building Character and Restorative Justice.  Besides education, I worked as an IT specialist in Corporate America (3M, St. Paul Companies, Blue Cross) for 25 years.  The work focused heavily on cross-functional teams and customer service, both important qualities to have on a school board.

Question 2: What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

• The ability to attract and retain quality educators and staff is incredibly important to ensuring the success of the district.  Unfortunately, hiring more folks is dependent on the budgetary limitations of the district.  But retaining good people can be enhanced by APPRECIATING them (administration, families, and community) and empowering them to use the skills they have to reach the unique learning styles of all students.
• I believe appropriate transparency between stakeholders (administration, school board members, teachers, staff, families, community) is essential for trust, and trust is essential for a healthy school district.
• Our kids are growing up in a struggling world.  The pandemic, school shootings, relentless social media access, and divisiveness have all ratcheted up the anxiety for today’s young people.  The very best way we can help them is to give them access to all the tools we can.  Exposure/discussion of difficult topics, mentoring groups (both peer and teacher-led), and access to counseling are essential.

Question 3: What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education? 

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have a dedicated commitment to marginalized folks and will be a strong advocate for kids who are “different” because of skin color, religious/spiritual beliefs, socioeconomic status, learning styles, gender/sexual identities/preferences, or anything else.  I strongly believe that we need to educate our kids not only on reading, writing, and ‘rithmetic, but issues at play in America today.  Banning books or limiting the scope of what teachers can teach regarding history and current events do nothing to prepare our kids for the world they are inheriting.  The school district and our entire community is a much more desirable place when everyone is valued, treated respectfully, and has a voice.

Question 4: Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

I truly believe that we only come up with good solutions when everyone’s voice is heard.  Respectful dialogue, active listening, and the ability to compromise are essential.  For much of my life, I have had relationships with people who hold different beliefs than I do.  In the divisive environment today, it’s especially important to find common ground on the areas we can all agree on and build bridges.  Collaboration is beautiful, consensus is rare, and compromise is necessary.  I’m committed to rolling up my sleeves and working on the hard issues with respect and an open mind.

Question 5: What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

Without getting into specifics, I believe that we have many opportunities for improving communication among all stakeholders in the district.  School/community projects, open discussion forums, and regular updates on outstanding issues allow the community to build trust with the district. 

Family: Wife- Krystal

Son- Evan age 1

Daughter- due August 2024

Occupation:  HVAC-R Service Technician with Benedict Sales and Service located in Altoona, WI

Prior political positions: None

Education: Associates Degree from Dunwoody College of Technology

1. Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board? I’ve lived in the school district since the 6th grade and graduated in 2003. As a long time taxpayer with two children that will be going through our school system I have a vested interest in ensuring the very best education for not only my children, but all students. I’ve been on the board since November of 2023, which has allowed me the chance to listen and learn a lot. I’ve had meeting with our superintendent, business manager, and curriculum director to learn some of the facets of their jobs that require the assistance or approval of the board. This allows me to have a perspective other than my own to consider when making decisions that may affect their abilities to perform in the best interest of our district.

My career can be summed up simply: problem solver. While the problems I’m solving are generally technical in nature, the problem solving process is the same. When searching for answers I have the ability to quickly filter out and process the relevant information to come up with a solution. My career also requires excellent communication. Communication is key when it comes to being a board member as my opinion is one of seven. And we need all seven opinions working together to accomplish our goals.

As a nonpartisan candidate I believe my views and beliefs work well with strong opinions. My ability to listen and understand others point of view, and my willingness to work together and compromise, leads to solutions rather than conflict.

2. What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district? The first priority is our budget. School budgets are stretched thin in most districts. I want to ensure our taxpayers can be confident knowing their dollars are spent effectively and efficiently.

Which leads to my second priority. Student enrollment is the driving factor behind our budget contributions from the state and federal level. I believe the recent referendum to improve facilities will help to bring new families into the district. However, my concern is with the families already in our district who open enroll their students to other districts. We continue to have a positive number when comparing the out of district students open enrolling in our district vs the students were losing to other districts. But that positive margin is trending downwards.

We need to have conversations with these families to understand why these students are choosing a different district so we can make changes to prevent other families from making the same decisions in the future.

3. What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education? In my opinion DEI is controversial, but not for the reasons most people think. I believe the people opposed to DEI in education see it as having a belief system forced into their children.

I believe DEI is important to be taught to our students because our American history books are filled with the negative impacts of the lack of DEI that people are still dealing with today. However, DEI should be taught as American history and not as a belief system.

4. Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy? I genuinely listen to and consider others opinions, no matter how different they may be from mine. I believe that is the first step in having an open and honest conversation. An honest conversation may lead either party into considering ideas they may not have considered before. Once all opinions have been considered and a decision has been made, I’m able to articulate the decision along with the factors involved in making the decision calmly and clearly.

5. What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented? I believe our district is trending in the right direction overall. I do not come into board meetings with a political agenda or long list of changes because, for the most part, I believe we’re doing the things the right way.

I do know we have lost students to open enrollment due to other district’s virtual programs. I would like to look into that to see where we can improve.

I also have concerns with an issue that I don’t believe is an issue in our district yet. This is concerning transgender students and the facilities they’ll use. Specifically, a locker room or restroom for use where all students will feel safe and comfortable. I don’t believe a biological male should be sharing a communal shower with a biological female after a gym class as this could lead to unsafe or more likely, uncomfortable situations. I also don’t believe a transgender student, in the locker room assigned to their biological gender, will be safe or comfortable for all students either. I’d like to ensure all of our students have a safe and comfortable place to do their private necessities. And I believe if we wait until this becomes an issue, we’re too late.

Click here for information available on School District of Somerset website.

Click here for information available on School District of Somerset website.

Family: husband, two adult children and their spouses, two granddaughters

Occupation: retired teacher

Prior political positions: I am finishing my second term on the Somerset School Board

Education: Graduate of Somerset High School, Bachelor’s Degree UW-Stout, Master’s Degree UW-River Falls

Question 1. Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

I am a lifelong member of the community and a taxpayer in the District for over 40 years. I was a teacher in the Somerset School District for 26 years. I retired upon my first election to the Somerset School Board in the spring of 2018. I have served six years on the Somerset School Board; however, I have regularly attended school board meetings for 36 years, since my oldest child was two years old and the District was considering implementing a Jr. Kindergarten program. I am aware of state and federal laws impacting school districts.

I have been a volunteer for the Somerset School District for many years. Currently, I have been a member of the Somerset Memorial Scholarship Fund Board of Directors for six years. I have been the coordinator and chaperone for the Somerset School District Ski Club for nine years. I work with 1st graders weekly to develop their reading skills. I have been a member of the Board of control for CESA-11, our local Cooperative Educational Services Agency for three years.

My broad knowledge of our District’s history in all my previous and current roles provides a wealth of experience which has proven beneficial to the Somerset School District Community and Board.

Question 2. What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

Like every parent, my priority is to raise happy, healthy, productive children who grow up able to contribute to society. To reach that goal the school district’s top priority needs to be student achievement. The biggest impact on student achievement is a highly qualified teacher in every classroom, so we need to attract and retain highly qualified staff. Over 80% of the District’s budget goes to employees. We need to make fiscally responsible decisions in the allocation of resources.

Question 3. What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?

I support all policies regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. I am a passionate believer in public education and in our greater community. Public schools are the foundation of our society and represent the great equalizer for our children. I am committed to providing an equal educational opportunity for all students in the District. I am aware of, understand, and support all state and federal laws regarding Protected Classes. It would be ethically, morally, and fiscally wrong and irresponsible not to. I love our District and would like to continue helping navigate its future so we may provide all of our students with an excellent education in a fiscally responsible manner. Specific policies include:

2260 – Nondiscrimination and Access to Equal Educational Opportunity

2260.01 – Section 504/ADA Prohibition Against Discrimination Based on Disability

2522 – Library Media Centers

5517 – Student Anti-Harassment

5517.01 – Bullying

Question 4. Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

Having been a teacher, a representative for staff, and a Board member I have had many years of developing skills to constructively respond to controversy. Practicing active listening, respect, understanding, critical thinking, and commitment to finding common ground and solutions have been skills I’ve learned and used throughout my career and life. People want to know they are heard and understood. It is important to clearly define the issue as well as the differing points of view and emotions involved. All parties need to have a seat at the table, be involved in offering solutions, and committed to finding a solution. The consequences of suggestions must be analyzed. Ultimately, compromises and consensus must be found to come to the most agreeable solution to be implemented. It is important to evaluate the resolution of the issue over time and be willing to make modifications as needed. Honest, respectful communication is paramount to reaching understanding and finding common ground. Ultimately, we all have the same goal: happy, healthy, productive children who graduate from the Somerset School District with the ability to contribute to society.

Question 5. What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

Having worked on the Policy Committee for the Somerset School Board nearly all the years I’ve been a board member, I recognize the importance of updating policy to keep current with law and DPI regulations. A change I would like to see which is not policy is in the Employee Handbook language related to vacancies. When positions become vacant or a new position is created, I’d like all staff to be notified and given the opportunity to apply.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Family: Christopher Main is my husband, and I have 5 children, 3 of them currently in school at GLenwood City High School

Occupation: Registered Nurse, Owner and Administrator for J & J Hillside Hollow CBRF and adult day program

Prior political positions: School Board Member for 3 years

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at UWGB

Question 1. Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board?

My experience that brings the most to the school board position is my special education background and nursing. I have been a nurse for almost 20 years, and was the school nurse for Glenwood City School district for several years. I learned alot of about how schools function and run while in that position. I also have a child with special needs, who currently attends Glenwood City High school. I have always been a huge advocate for the special education department and with my background in nursing with the past 20 years with developmentally disabled children and adult, the passion of helping this population is important for our school board as well. I do also have 2 regular education children in the district, which gives me a diverse background and desire to help shape our school for the future.

Question 2.  What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district?

Top priorities for our school district is

1) Continuing to hold high expectations for staff and students to be a positive and supporting place for our kids to go to school and teachers to enjoy the place they teach.

2) Community involvement and trust to continue to build positive role models and expectations.

3) Building and ground maintenance so that they place our kids spend the majority of the day is inviting, accepting and safe.

Question 3. What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?

Being a mother of a child with special needs I have always been a huge advocate for inclusion. It is super important for all students to have exposure to people that are different in many ways. It creates an environment where we can teach our students how to help and gain confidence and awareness to a variety of students. When we can create opportunities where kids can be with their peers, and grow by helping others, we create a caring environment for all.

Question 4. Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy?

Being a business owner with many staff and families that I work with, as well as a huge variety of health care entities, I feel a skill that I have that is helpful is being open to other ideas, and knowing that having a team approach can be the most effective and beneficial way to produce the best results.

Question 5.  What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?

One of the biggest concerns that I have seen over the years is the funding allocations for small schools, especially with declining enrollment or open enrollment fluctuations. Funding to be able to appropriately support our staff and our students and provide the very best education in a very small school district is important. Retaining good quality staff is extremely important as well. Every decision we make at the school board level comes down to how to spend the dollars we have in the huge variety of areas of need in our small town and when this number can change drastically, decisions become harder.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Did not respond to the League of Women Voters invitation to participate.

Family: wife – Heather Wester and 3 sons Carter 20, Caden 18 and Cohen 14. 

Occupation: GM/Vice President Premium Waters, Inc. 

Prior political positions: None 

Education: Bachelor’s degree from UW Stout – Marketing/Business 

Question 1: Can you provide an overview of the aspects of your background and experience that make you well-suited for a position on the school board? 

I currently serve on the board of directors for the International Bottled Water Association for the past 3 years.  I have lived in Hammond since 2006.  I raised all 3 of my sons in the community and have attended 4k through graduation.  Senior son along with a current 8th grader attending SCC.  My wife Heather has been working at the elementary and now the high school.  She has been an office administrator/secretary for 8 years.  I have participated in the last 2 referendums from the community side attending many school board and community events.  In my current role at Premium Waters, Inc I oversee a couple hundred employees with a few direct reports.   

Question 2: What do you think are the three top priorities in your school district? 

Students first – Health and well being of our students and the type of education and life skills we are providing for them. 

Administration, teachers, and staff – are they being supported, are they being evaluated, and how well is the performance.  We need to find and provide the proper tools to grow leaders in our school and community.   

Budget – how well is that being maintained and what the future holds for support. 

Question 3: What specific actions or policies do you support or oppose regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in education?  

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion can be worded in so many ways.  Overall, I support the purpose, but we must define the SCC purpose and outcome.  We cannot recreate rules that hurt others in the process.  I have lived by the rule of thumb “treat others as you wish to be treated; be fair, honest, and hardworking.”  The world is changing fast, and we need to set rules and standards but be knowledgeable of change.   

Question 4:  Education has become the target for hot-topic issues. What skills do you have for constructive responses to controversy? 

We all need education, how it is provided is up for interpretation.  I’m not a personal fan of virtual learning nor home schooling.  With that said I know it serves a purpose for some.  We sometimes allow excuses to run our outcomes.  I think that process needs some serious review.  I believe in interaction with people, problems, success, and failures.  I believe in building character.  It’s hard to educate virtually without interaction.  We need to find a balance.     

Question 5: What is a change to our current educational policies that you would like to see implemented?   

Standard base grading.  Another controversial subject.  Done the right way it can work but I believe life is not based on standards and averages.  I, too, have to learn more about the version SCC runs vs others.  I hear the positive and negative from staff, parents, and the students.  When students don’t understand then we have failed!