SV & Elmwood school boards, RF City Council Alderperson on ballot

While the regular spring election will be held Tuesday, April 5, three local boards had enough candidates to warrant a primary, to be held Tuesday, Feb. 15: River Falls City Council Alderperson-at-Large, Elmwood School Board and Spring Valley School Board.

To help voters get to know those running for office, Journal staff sent each candidate a questionnaire. Each questionnaire asked candidates the exact same questions. If a candidate didn’t respond to the Journal’s request by deadline, it will be noted below.

Incumbent Scott Morrissette will face four others for two open River Falls City Council Alderperson-at-Large seats. The other incumbent, Benjamin Plunkett, chose not to seek re-election. He is instead on the April 5 ballot for Pierce County Board Supervisor for District 5.

Five residents are hoping to get one of two seats open on the Elmwood School Board. Incumbent Sandra Weix chose not to seek reelection, while incumbent Adam D. Carson faces three new challengers.

Eight candidates are vying for three open seats on the Spring Valley School Board. Incumbents April Robelia and Brian T. Wang are facing six challengers. Wang was appointed to fill a spot when Board See ELECTION, Page 3

President Cristy Peavey resigned to take a position with the school dis- ELECTION

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trict in late 2021. The Journal thanks those who responded and allowed constituents to get to know you a little better. Incumbents are marked with an asterisk * Candidates' responses are listed in alphabetical order.

RF City Council Alderperson-at-Large

Jeff Bjork Age: 58 Occupation: Advertising Sales and Community Outreach Prior offices: Ezekiel Lutheran Church Council Member, Pierce County Supervisor for District 5, RFHS Alumni Association President, River Falls City Council Member 2014-2016, River Falls Historical Preservation Commission Member, River Falls Masonic Lodge Chaplin Why are you running for River Falls City Council? If elected, what will be your priorities? The reason I am running to be a council member for the City of River Falls is to offer new old eyes to our city with an understanding of our history and a passion for our future. Maintaining a balance between our growth and our preservation are important factors in determining how we will grow as a city.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as an alderperson-atlarge?

  Being born and raised in River Falls and having built relationships with people of all backgrounds I have an understanding and appreciate for our community. I have had the privilege of traveling throughout the country, and the world for that matter, and have always been drawn back to my community of River Falls; it’s my home. My greatest skill I have perhaps is that of asking questions and listening to learn. I realize that more is gained when knowledge and understanding is put into the equation rather than reaction and biased beliefs.

In what community activities/organizations have you been involved?   Since moving back to River Falls approximately nine years ago I have continually been involved in my community. In 2014 I started and organized the RFHS Alumni Association that has shared many reunion events with the biggest being our 2015 RFHS Homecoming Reunion that was highlighted by a four-day showcase event at the River Falls Public Library with 100-year-old Bess Knott being honored as our first Alumni Homecoming Queen. Another activity I take great pride in is sharing stories and pictures of River Falls from yesteryear on a Facebook page titled “You know you grew up in River Falls, WI if…” In this Facebook page, community members of all ages share their memories and remembrances of River Falls and it allows for individuals to share their vision of what they would like to see of River Falls’ future. My mission has always been about making my community better and stronger.

Why should you be elected to the city council? What differentiates you from other candidates?

  My belief is River Falls is better when we work together and communicate with each other. Communication is a two-way street; it requires both a message to be sent and a message to be received. Just because someone shares their intentions or thoughts does not mean the intentions or thoughts were understood or agreed to. We were given two ears and one mouth, so my general rule of thumb is to listen twice as much, if not more, than I speak. I want to listen and hear what our community members want and desire and then do my best at taking proper action(s).

What issues are the most pressing in the city, and what would you do about them? At this time, River Falls is going to grow whether we want it to or not, so my concern is how do we grow and how do we best manage that growth to serve all the people of River Falls? As far as I am concerned, we are not in a race to get to a certain population level or to find ways to increase the traffic counts on our already busy streets. My focus will be looking to find ways to maintain a balance between growth and preservation for the City of River Falls.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? What a gift that would be, but maybe not too unrealistic to believe. If the City was granted a gift of a $1 million grant I would most likely to try to position it in the direction of it being used towards a Community History & Event Center with perhaps the old River Falls Power Plant being the building to house this Center. River Falls has a rich and colorful history and there needs to be a place to display and tell these stories of our past. The $1 million would go a long way in this private/public effort, but only a start.

Where are your favorites places to spend time in our city? Why? Truly I cannot think of a place I don’t like to be at in River Falls. I have two dogs (Ellie & Billie) and we walk throughout River Falls. Whether it’s walking on the west side of town where I grew-up as a youth delivering newspapers and hearing the stories from my elders, strolling through the campus and hearing the stories and struggles of today’s UWRF student, walking on the east side of town where I learned to drive and shared moments of growth with others, or now where I live on the south side of town as the dogs and I walk along the lower Kinni Valley and Glen Park and spend many hours hiking, fishing and learning with our friends. River Falls has an unlimited number of treasures and favorite places; if you haven’t experienced them I’m sorry to say but you’re not looking. In many ways River Falls is the best kept secret these old eyes have ever seen, hope I get your vote.

Benjamin Blanchard Age: 35 Occupation: UI/UX Designer (User Interface/User

Experience) Prior elected offices: From 2011-12, I served as a Senator at Large at UWRF and also served as the Allocable Fees and Appropriations Board Chairman during the same time from December of 2011 until I graduated in May of 2012. I also served two terms as Theta Chi Fraternity president for Zeta Sigma chapter (UW-RF).

Why are you running for River Falls City Council? If elected, what will be your priorities? I have lived in River Falls off and on since I started attending UW-RF in the fall of 2004 and my wife and I decided to put down permanent roots here in 2017. During my time here, I have come to love and appreciate River Falls for all it has to offer, from its beautiful landscapes and rippling trout streams, to its vibrant business and lively downtown. Yet most of all, I have come to appreciate the tight knit and friendly community. I have never lived amongst a more admirable and hospitable group of folks and I feel both blessed and grateful for having been given opportunity to do so.

I am running for River Falls City Council because I want to give back to the city and community that I love.

My priorities would be: Ensuring River Falls maintains its small town feel, while welcoming new residents and growing our community in a sustainable manner. Fostering an environment that attracts new business and grows existing businesses. Preserving our city’s natural resources for all to enjoy for generations to come.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as an alderperson-atlarge?

  In my career as a UI/UX Designer, it is my responsibility to carefully listen to the needs of stakeholders and partner with them to create applications that reflect those needs. The same can be said when it comes to City Council. I am happy to take the time to listen to those I would represent and make sure they know their voices are heard.

Additionally, serving as the Allocable Fees and Appropriations Board chairman for the UW-RF Student Senate really helped me grow with handling conflict, while balancing multiple priorities. It was my committee’s responsibility to take three quarters of a million dollars in student organization budget requests and pair that number down to just over $200,000 that we had available to distribute.

In what community activities/organizations have you been involved?   I currently serve as the scholarship Chairman of the Zeta Sigma chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity Alumni Association and also sit on the Board of Directors. Additionally, my wife, Kim, and I also help foster dogs through Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue.

Why should you be elected to the city council? What differentiates you from other candidates?

  To be honest, I don’t know much about the other candidates, but I am sure they are all wonderful individuals who also care deeply about our community. I feel that I should be elected to City Council because I genuinely feel like I can give back to and represent the community I care so much about. I am a balanced individual who can work with just about anyone, find solutions in difficult situations, and act with the public interest at heart. I am by no means an expert at everything, but I am more than happy and willing to partner with the community to learn and give voice to those I represent.

What issues are the most pressing in the city, and what would you do about them? These are exciting times for our city. River Falls has seen an influx of people and is growing at a rapid pace. As we welcome these new neighbors with open arms, we must also create the right conditions to attract new businesses and jobs. If elected to City Council, I shall do my utmost to help attract new businesses and foster an environment for businesses within the city to flourish.

Additionally, we must also ensure that we have enough quality public services to maintain development and the growing population. I will also strive to ensure we have enough public services for our ever-expanding city and that our city employees are fairly compensated with competitive wages and benefits.

When I was door knocking for nomination signatures, the theme I heard in conversation time and time again was that many of our neighbors wish to keep the small town feel of River Falls. I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment and if elected, I would strive to find ways to keep the special feeling that River Falls offers and preserve the reason many of us live here.

There may be issues that others put at the top of their lists and I would love to hear about them!

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? Small business is the life blood of our city.

If I were to be given use of a million-dollar grant in any way I saw fit, I would create a program where new and existing small businesses in need may apply for up to $10,000 to use toward purchasing new equipment, maintenance, renovations, or other related expenses. If a business can show that they would be able to retain current employees or hire new employees, then an additional amount of $5,000 may be available to request as well. I believe that taking small steps like these would help to foster an environment to attract and grow business and set River Falls apart from other towns and cities nearby.

Where are your favorites places to spend time in our city? Why? If I had to pick just one place in River Falls that I would consider to be my favorite, it would be Mariachi Loco. From my time as an undergraduate at UWRF, I used to grab lunch there on the regular and bring a few friends with me as well. We used to call it our “extra credit world studies” class since we were there so often at about the same time. Tammy, Chava and all of the good folk at Mariachi Loco do great work providing quality meals at reasonable prices and have been doing so for almost two decades now. It has truly been a pleasure getting to know them personally and patronizing their restaurant and I look forward to continuing to do so for many years to come.

If I’m allowed a second pick, my next favorite place in River Falls would be Glen Park and the walking paths up and down the Kinni. In the summer and fall, I love bringing my kids to the playgrounds and going for long walks along the river. In the winter, Theta Chi fraternity conducts its yearly undergraduate vs. alumni snow football game on the soccer field there, so I have many fond memories.

Michael Metro Age: 49 Occupation: Business development manager Prior elected offices:

None Why are you running for River Falls City Council? If elected, what will be your priorities? I’m running because I care deeply about this community and I want to have a part in creating a prosperous future for all. I’m running because I talk about leading by example to my children and this is an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in a way that has wide reaching impact. I’m running because it matters to contribute to something larger than yourself. My priorities will be to help create an inclusive and equitable path forward that benefits all of our community members.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as an alderperson-atlarge?

  I have become a very good listener and being able to listen to hear rather than listening to respond is a useful skill when working in a collaborative environment. Working as a team also requires the ability to recognize our strengths and strengths in others. Being able to do that requires that we see the value in others first. I am naturally curious and I try to walk into every interaction with the intention of learning something. If I can leave a meeting or conversation having uttered the phrase “I hadn’t considered that” at least once it’s a win. Parenthood and marriage are probably the two things above all else. They both have taught me about the “collective good.” Being able to consider the perspectives of others is imperative. It also leads to more thoughtful and productive solutions.

In what community activities/organizations have you been involved?   I served on the Turningpoint Board of Directors. I served on Sight Council at RFPME. I coached Flag Football. I serve on the River Falls Public Library Board of Trustees.

Why should you be elected to the city council? What differentiates you from other candidates?

  I believe that I will bring a unique perspective to the council. I’ve been described as a bridge builder. I’m solution focused. I believe that most folks just want to be heard and I’m a good listener. I am eager to learn new things and contribute to an inclusive and welcoming city. I honestly don’t know that much about the other candidates yet. I look forward to seeing the edition of the Journal that has our answers in it so I can learn more about them.

What issues are the most pressing in the city, and what would you do about them? The most common response when I’ve asked that question has been housing. Affordable housing to be more specific. I know the solution to housing issues is tied to another high priority which is economic development. These two things are not mutually exclusive and both require sustainable and thoughtful planning.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? I think opening a Teen Recreation Center would be a good use of a $1 million grant. It could have a skate park, pool tables, board games, or basketball courts. Some place for kids to just hang out and be kids. I think something like that would provide some cool opportunities in a community like River Falls.

Where are your favorites places to spend time in our city? Why? We love to hike the trails at Glen Park and Hoffman Park. Swimming at the pool in the summer. Playing in the Kinni of course. Catching a movie at the Falls Theater is a family favorite. We love spending time at the Public Library as well.

Scott Morrissette* Age: 56 Occupation: Commercial banker at First National Bank of River Falls Prior elected offices: Alderman at Large City of River Falls, Plan Commission Member (2007-2008) Why are you running for River Falls City Council? If elected, what will be your priorities? Serving the residents of River Falls has been a great honor. I hope to use the experience I have gained as an Alderman to continue to move River Falls forward. The city is currently working on the Comprehensive Plan which will set the direction for the city’s growth into the future. In addition to being a part of that process, I want to see the city start improvements on Riverwalk (the alley between Maple and Walnut that runs next to the river). Business owners are prepared to invest in their buildings with restaurants and other outdoor venues. Private investment along with City efforts would only improve the downtown core.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as an alderperson-atlarge?

  I have served on the Historic Preservation Commission, Plan Commission, Utility Advisory Board, EMS Advisory Board and have served as Council President for the past seven years and was also the Comptroller for two years. My background in financial services also helps with discussions and decision making for City issues.

In what community activities/organizations have you been involved? I have served on the River Falls Chamber Board of Director (Board Chair 2014); River Falls Rotary, current member and past President in 2013; Sunshine Fund, board member and past President 2019-2021 and the St Croix EDC board of directors. The connections made in organizations have provided me with a broad crosssection of views on many topics.

Why should you be elected to the city council? What differentiates you from other candidates?

I hope to use the experience gained through my years of service to better represent the residents. In today’s political environment, I have also found that making and keeping strong relationship with my fellow council members is important. The public expects us to solve problems and make decisions that are in their best interest. Over the years, I am proud to say that I have formed productive relationships with those who I have served. With the involvement in the community, I have also had an opportunity to hear points of view from community members that help guide my decision making.

What issues are the most pressing in the city, and what would you do about them? Fiscal management. The City is currently preparing to remove the damaged lower dam. Finding a way to pay for removal while keeping the financial impact to the residents and utility rate payers at a minimum, is my top priority. We must also find the balance between growth and impacts to property taxes.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? There are two things that would be on my wish list. 1) Riverwalk. We must capture the stormwater and redirect it to a retaining pond. This means putting a pipe down the Riverwalk alley to divert the stormwater from the downtown core. This would start the investment in Riverwalk. 2) Glen Park Pool. The splash pad has been well received by the residents. Enhancing the public pool with a zero entry would help families with small kids and those who are handicapped.

Where are your favorites places to spend time in our city? Why? There are many places that we enjoy. The Ball Park has been a great addition to the City. It gathers people from around the region and also provides a place for families to come with little cost. Non-profits also benefit by the partnership that the Baseball Association has made in the community. Downtown has great places to eat or stop for a beverage with friends. Veterans Park and the White Pathway provide a place to see many people during an evening walk. Finally, we take in movies at Falls Theater frequently. Having this asset in the community is not to be taken for granted.

Jacob Proue Jacob Proue did not respond to the questionnaire request by deadline.

Elmwood School Board

Adam D. Carson* Adam D. Carson did not respond by deadline to the Journal’s questionnaire request.

Adam Garfield Adam Garfield did not respond to the Journal’s questionnaire request by deadline.

Gared R. Pieper Occupation: Service manager at Diesel Rehab in Eau Galle Previous elected positions: None Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?) Yes, I have a kindergartner.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities? I’m running because I want to make sure our children are all given the same opportunities to succeed after their school years, that they leave the district prepared. I’d also like to know more about what’s being taught in the schools. I attended the school board’s strategic planning session and I want to be more informed. Also, moneywise, I’m experienced with budgeting, buying and purchasing and selling engines. I think I could be a good value with financial aspects and help manage the money and where it goes.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board? I don’t think there are any issues currently. I’ve liked a lot of things, how Elmwood handled the COVID pandemic. For example, within a day or two, kids had laptops and were doing it from home. I am super glad that Elmwood has not ever closed the doors. Children should be able to live their lives and be taught what’s right and wrong and be prepared for life when they leave Elmwood, whether it’s to a tech school, a four-year school, or the workforce.

I’ve heard from a third party some things that bother me, if true, when it comes to teaching current events, or political current events. I don’t care what political party you belong to or what you believe in, but when you get censored because you don’t follow that political party’s views, and others kids can talk as openly and freely as they want, that’s not OK (if it happened). I want each student to have fair, equal time to express their views, or maybe keep politics out of it. If it’s the topic, then each kid should have an equal chance. My main thing is equality.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member? I’m a service manager at a diesel repair shop. I grew up locally in Ellsworth, and graduated from EHS. I became a manager in the military and supervised hundreds of troops. I had to make decisions that involved people’s safety. I am a disabled veteran and I began farming and came back as my own boss. I had to do my own financial planning. I think I’m pretty good with making the call with if we should spend money or not. I’m part of making decisions with the American Legion. I’ve also been a volunteer firefighter for Elmwood for 11 years. It’s life or death for me to make a decision to send a person into a burning building. I think I have a good quality on knowing when and how to make decisions. I think I can decipher managerial and money skills. I started off in 2010 turning wrenches and worked up to service manager.

I also made a huge gamble at our business. When Covid 19 hit, there were part shortages everywhere. I prepared for it. I bought overhaul kits for every engine that we sell and build. I have everything in stock because I planned ahead. I can build engines and sell parts because I have the stuff here. It was a gamble, but the gamble worked out.

In what school district or community activities/ organizations have you been involved? Elmwood Fire Department for 11 years, Elmwood American Legion for three years Are you running with an organized slate of candidates? No, it’s just me deciding I want to be more involved.

What do you see as the primary work of the school board? I think what they should be doing is all about budgeting for years in advance, changes that need to be done, looking at “are we going to need a new roof in the next few years, a playground for the younger children, etc.” I’m sure that’s what they’re doing and I’d like to be involved.

The majority of people in Elmwood, Ellsworth, Plum City, Spring Valley, the majority of people here used to be Caucasian. Now there are more people of other races. We need to make sure they’re welcome and have the same opportunities to succeed. We need to be flexible with what the district needs because needs can change over time.

What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? I look at it as judge and jury. You have your jury when you’re at a court, figuring out what is right and wrong. School board members hash things out to find the best way to work toward goals vs. figuring out if someone is guilty or not. The judge is like the superintendent. He is the final say and carries out what the board votes. He can collaborate with us and ask our opinions, but in the grand scheme of things, he’s kind of the head honcho. The school board president is more of a spokesperson to the public. Board members are behind the scenes, while the superintendent or board president acts as the face of the district.

What attributes and behaviors are essentials for school board members? I’m very proud to be an American and proud that I served in the military. On that note, key attributes are integrity, honesty, loyalty, friendship, strong and not a weak person, can’t be follower but must be a leader.

What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and administration? First of all, you have to have respect for each other. You have a job to do. That’s ELECTION

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why you were elected. If you have a difference with someone, you’re on a board, there will be differences and you must remain respectful, be able to listen and able to talk and speak your views as well. You could totally disagree with somebody and you know you’re never going to break through with talk and reasoning, but you have to be respectful. You can’t hold it personally.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? If I voted against a decision, yes, I have to. That’s part of being a board. There were a lot of things in the military that I didn’t like. You don’t agree with everything that happens. It’s a majority. You’re not going to always like it.

How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden? The school board just talked about this at its strategic planning. You have to find different solutions. No one wants taxes increased, so you try to find other ways to make money for the budget. Bringing in other students, making the district more inviting for other students, finding innovative ways to bring in more revenue, perhaps through an online school? We want our children to succeed. What’s the cost? Where are we going to get the funds to do this? It also extends to the community and the need to bring in more business and housing to increase the community’s tax base.

Why should you be elected to the school board? I’m diversified. I can think outside the box as well as inside the box. I have many valuable skills I’ve acquired over the last 27 years including managerial, accounting, and life experiences.

What differentiates you from the other candidates/ board members? I don’t know any of the current board members.

Andrew A. Zierl Occupation: Self-employed carpenter Previous elected positions: This will be my first elected position.

Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?) I have one child; he is currently in fourth grade.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities?   I am running because I feel it is good to be involved in the community. If elected I would like to make sure taxpayer money is being used to better the education of all children in Elmwood and use my construction knowledge to help with buildings and grounds.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board?   I would like to improve the communication gap between the school board and the public.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member? I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Stout with a BS in construction management and a minor in business. Since 2017, I have operated my own small construction business.

In what school district or community activities/ organizations have you been involved?   I have been more behind-the-scenes support to my wife, Ashley, who has been involved in many activities with the district. The school board provides me an opportunity more suited to my interests and abilities.

Why should you be elected to the school board? I have been consistent the last six years in my desire to help bring a new voice to the school board. I want to be a part of moving Elmwood into the future.

What differentiates you from the other candidates or board members? My wife and I are not originally from Elmwood but fell in love with this community. We built our forever home just outside of town to raise our son here. Joining the school board gives me an opportunity to learn more about this amazing community.

Are you running with an organized slate of candidates? No Megan Wolf Occupation: Senior marketing coordinator Previous elected positions: I have not held any elected positions in the past.

Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?) Currently, I have one student in the district with another one planning to start in the fall. Our youngest will start in another few years.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities?   I’ve always felt that I want to take an active role within the community where we’re raising our family. As our kids begin their career within the Elmwood School District, I thought now would be a great time to increase my role and participation.

The school is one of the most important entities in our community, and I’m excited at the possibility to learn about its inner workings, stay connected to the issues and opportunities, and have a positive impact on the educational environment of our students.

My primary goal as a member of the school board is to advocate for the success of Elmwood’s students in today’s world. It’s important to me, especially as my kids enter the school, that our students are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to exceed expectations and take on what life will throw their way. I’m excited to focus on student-achievement through effective goal setting, data-driven decision making, and clear communication.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board? Access to technology and technologically advanced classrooms will be an important topic to keep in focus, along with finding and retaining educators, and making sure our kids have access to much of the same educational and extra-curricular opportunities as neighboring larger districts.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member?   If elected to the Elmwood School Board, I’d be offering effective, goal-focused communication, the ability to speak my opinion while respecting the opinions of others, and a drive to keep the success of Elmwood’s students as the most important priority. I believe my time spent within the Elmwood school system, as well as exposure to larger districts, provides an important perspective and broad knowledge base to draw upon.

In what school district or community activities/ organizations have you been involved? I’ve helped coach youth sports in various communities over the past few years, but I’m excited at the opportunity to become even more involved in Elmwood’s community.

Are you running with an organized slate of candidates? No What do you see as the primary work of the school board? I see the primary work of the school board as doing what’s necessary to prioritize the needs and interests of the students and their families within the district. There are so many factors needed to make that possible, but if we can put together a group that is willing to do what’s best for the students, the rest will fall into the place.

What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? A school board member’s responsibilities are to establish goals / visions for the district, set and maintain the budget, understand policies that may impact the district, and grow connection between the school and other groups within the community. The superintendent is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities within the district and making sure the decided-upon policies are implemented.

What attributes and behaviors are essentials for school board members? School board members must be good listeners, good communicators and handle different communication styles and situations with grace and understanding. I think it’s important for members to understand that other members may have varied backgrounds but that everyone is there for the same reason – the achievement and opportunity for Elmwood’s students.

What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and administration? Effective communication, patience, and understanding. Without completely listening to the other side, and hearing their perspective, it can be difficult to make a decision the group will support.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? Yes! Disagreements are inevitable and a healthy form of growth. As an effective board member, I will politely make my contribution to the discussion and if the majority of the group leans in another direction, I will support the decision. It’s important that my voice be heard but not that all decisions go in my favor. Disagreements are part of life and part of any large group.

How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden? It’s important that the school board be transparent and openly communicate with taxpayers. The more communication as to what’s happening in the district, hopefully the more open tax payers will be. It’s important to take both sides into consideration, to make both sides feel seen and heard, and to find a middle-ground so both can thrive.

Why should you be elected to the school board?   I believe I would be a good addition to the school board because I have a genuine interest in the longevity of the district and having it serve our students and community in the best possible way. As my kids enter the district, these issues are becoming more important to my family, and I’d like to have an active role in understanding and deciding the future of our district.

What differentiates you from the others candidates or board members?   If elected, I will take the first few sessions to really learn and listen from the current group, and also to really find the place where I can make the biggest impact. Spring Valley School Board Jon Erickson Occupation: Warehouse supervisor Previous elected positions: None Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?) Two in the district. A 13-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities?   I’m running because I want to be involved in my child’s education. My priorities will be to ensure parents have a say in their child’s education, and to make sure the school building is a place all students feel safe.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board? My kids’ education What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member?   Being a parent, and a community member.

In what school district or community activities/ organizations have you been involved?   None really to this point. I worked second shift hours for many years, but now since my evenings are generally open I would like to be more involved.

Are you running with an organized slate of candidates?   No What do you see as the primary work of the school board? To ensure the kids of the district receive a quality education. Also, that they have a safe space to do it in. When I say safe, I mean as free from bullying as possible.

What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? A board member’s role is to be a good steward of the children and the community they serve. The main difference from administration is we choose to do this on top of our full-time jobs. Another difference is a board member is put there as an elected member of the community to represent them. It is not a hired position. Maybe that is stating the obvious, but it is a key difference between the people, or groups, who should ultimately want the same thing.

What attributes and behaviors are essentials for school board members? Concern for the education of the children of the community.

Fiscal responsibility with spending the revenue of the district.

Showing respect for concerns brought forward by teachers, and community members.

What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and administration?

Healthy discussion about the facts, and listening to how others feel, and why they feel that way.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? I think by definition if I voted against something I do not support it. I would say I would respect the decisions of the board whether I voted in the majority or not.

How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden? One way is spending funds as if they were out of the family budget. If you treat spending decisions as if it was your own money, which at least a portion actually is, I think it will result in sound decisions.

Why should you be elected to the school board? Because I love my kids, and have a standing in their education.

What differentiates you from the others candidates or board members? Not knowing how everyone feels about all issues it is hard to say. We are the same in many ways, and different in many ways. What makes me different is my unique experiences in life. There is only one me.

Nate Flanders Occupation: K-12 Licensed School Counselor What elected positions have you held previously, if any? NA Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?) Yes Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities? I’ve wanted to be more involved but I was not comfortable doing it when I considered my older children would be coming up through high school. For me personally, I felt it might be a conflict of interest and I want to be able to focus on the entire student body’s needs and not have personal feeling for family that might conflict with what is best overall.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board? I’m concerned with accountability issues. The school is accountable to represent the parent’s needs, wants and concerns for their children. Basically, less government control and more community control.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member?   Over 24 years as a school counselor, coached on many levels from K through High School, youth pastor…

In what school district or community activities/ organizations have you been involved?   Coached four different sports in St. Paul school district Jr High and High School, coached High School sports in Elmwood, elementary sports in Spring Valley, youth pastor in Menomonie, summer sessions in St. Paul along with working in the Juvenile Detention Center.

Why should you be elected to the school board? I don’t know enough about the other candidates to say I’m a better candidate than they are! I hope everyone earnestly make the decision to vote for who they think best represents the students and will advocate for them and their families.

What differentiates you from the others candidates or board members? See everything above. I only know a couple of the other candidates personally and in all fairness cannot answer a question like this.

Are you running with an organized slate of candidates? No What do you see as the primary work of the school board? To make decisions based on WHAT IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE STUDENT(S)!

What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? School board can be the boundary setters and bring ideas and concerns to the for front. The administration can act upon what the board presents and take credit or blame. The board is the whisper, while the administration is the voice.

What attributes and behaviors are essentials for school board members? Openminded, personable and they represent the community as a whole. They are advocates for who they serve … the students, families and people of the community.

What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and administration? This would depend upon the administration. It should be a give and take, thoughtful communications with respect for all the issues and a healthy dose of common sense which seems to be lacking in many facets of our country today.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? This depends upon what the issue is. In general, yes I could support it as a sign of solidarity if it benefits the students and their families.

How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden? I hope to find out! Perhaps we should consider that ALL quality education should begin at home!

Joan Ford Occupation: Retired Spring Valley teacher Previous elected positions: None Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?) Two children who graduated from SV and 3 grandchildren who presently attend.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities? I would like to be a member of the Spring Valley School Board because I would like to remain actively involved in the district where I taught for 35 years. I feel a deep personal connection to our district and presently have three grandchildren attending Spring Valley. My priorities include keeping Spring Valley Schools an excellent school for children to learn and grow and prepare all students for success in school and once they graduate.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board? I am looking forward to being a voice for teachers and parents. I hope to keep lines of communication open and be an active listener when issues are voiced.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member?   My skills include being an excellent listener and a person who researches information before making decisions. I have strong mediation skills, honed through years of being part of the SV teacher’s union. I have personal experience as a teacher, in matters concerning staff, and as a parent of two Spring Valley graduates, and as a very involved grandmother, I have seen both sides to many issues. As a professional educator of 35 years, I have a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Special Education, from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

In what school district or community activities/ organizations have you been involved?   I am actively involved in supporting the Elementary Parents club, the Middle/High School Choir, and I am an active member in my church and its choir. As a newly retired teacher, I was personally involved in most of the school activities.

Are you running with an organized slate of candidates? No What do you see as the primary work of the school board? I think the primary work of the school board is to make sure Spring Valley School District is run well. The school board’s job is to set policies for the district, establish goals, and oversee the resources and budget for the district.

What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? The school board members determine goals and policy for the district. They establish a budget. The superintendent and administration work for the school board and determine the method to successfully reach the district’s goals, and put how to successfully implement these policies.

What attributes and behaviors are essentials for school board members? School board members should be people of strong integrity and honesty. They should have good communication skills, and be willing to invest their time and talents for the good of the school district. They should have a visible presence in the school district.

What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and administration? The best way to address differences of opinion between any group of people is to allow each group or individual to voice their concern without interruption, and then work towards a compromise.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? That is an interesting question considering the political atmosphere we are presently living in. If the board’s decision is not one that requires me to go against my moral beliefs, and if the decision has been shown to be in the best interest of the students and their learning environment, then yes, I could support the board’s decision.

How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden? As a district tax payer for over 40 years, I do understand the concern of continued property tax increases. However, as a teacher, I know the importance of maintaining a high level of education for our students and the need for certain equipment and staff. Saying that, I believe we presently have a wonderful K-12 campus, a group of highly skilled teachers who are deeply concerned about their students. As a school board, we need to maximize all Federal and State funding that is available. If a particular need is found in the district, investigate grant writing either from our own Education Foundation or other Foundations that offer grants for schools. Engage the community for ideas and support. Balance is gained through open communication, brainstorming and compromise.

Why should you be elected to the school board?   I should be elected to the school board because I feel I am a person of strong integrity and honesty. I have a long history (35 years) as a teacher in Spring Valley, and I feel I know many of the concerns of the staff. I also have a strong rapport with many of the students and their parents, as well as the present administration.

What differentiates you from the others candidates or board members?   There are many differences between myself and the other candidates. First, I worked as a teacher in the district until June 2021. Secondly, I am retired and have time to address concerns and issues that may face the district, as well as being available during the school day to see the actual workings of the school in action. Thirdly, as a former special education teacher, I am knowledgeable and interested in many of the legal aspects of the school board. And lastly, I have a working relationship with the present administration and staff.

Minda J. Matthys Occupation: College Navigator at CVTC River Falls Campus Previous elected positions: None Do you have children who attend the school district (or have they graduated?)   We have three children. Our oldest is a 2020 graduate of Spring Valley, our middle is a current senior, and our youngest is in sixth grade at Spring Valley Middle School.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your priorities?   Retention and recruitment of teachers and staff as it relates to competitive salaries is certainly one area that concerns me. We have great teachers in our district and I fear that our salaries are not competitive or in line with neighboring districts. In turn, we may not be attracting/recruiting excellent teachers to apply for district openings because of the salary gap between neighboring districts. Community support is another area I would like to see the Spring Valley School District and School Board work toward building. I think we have a great foundation started, but I would like to see more being done. As mentioned in another question, I am passionate about getting Youth Apprenticeship partnerships going within our school and community. What better way to support our local businesses and students at the same time.

Is there a particular issue(s) that motivates you to serve on the school board?   The two priorities I feel need to be addressed are retention and recruitment of teachers and staff as it relates to salaries and community support.

What specific skills and/or experiences have prepared you to serve as a board member?   I have a BS in Early Childhood Education from UWStout. I worked at UW-River Falls from 2001-2018 as the Director of The CHILD Center, an on-campus daycare. In November 2018 I transitioned to CVTC River Falls and now work in Adult Education and College Prep. I have experience with grant writing and reporting in my previous and current role. If you ask those that know me well, they would say I am an advocate. I advocate for people who may not have a voice. I am willing to devote time and energy into finding solutions to issues at hand. I am both passionate and compassionate when working