1. Tell us a little bit about yourself, your job and family.
I am a married father of 3 who is actively involved in Sioux Falls schools. When I am not working as a business development manager who assists struggling families find to employment, one of my passions is to be part of family and youth sports programs of Sioux Falls.
2. Why did you decide to seek a term on the school board?
As I finish my last year on the City Council the ability to continue serving the community I love. I have had a love of education and what it can do to strengthen, not only a person, but the community. This race is for a short two year term and we have little time to waste. The skills and knowledge from serving 8 years on the Council, gives me a stronger start without the usual on the job training necessary to get things done.
3. Do you have any specific area of the Sioux Falls Public School System you would like to see changed or improved?
My first priority is to open up the processes, decision making and to continue my record of never voting for a tax increase. I believe we collect enough taxes now, but we need to prioritize spending better. We can’t afford to tax our citizens out of their homes.
4. Is there anything you would like to do to try to improve staff morale? Do you believe the recently passed 4% pay hike is enough?
I have had to publicly make these decisions while on the Council and tested the reactions. I believe improving the tenor of the communications with staff and voters goes a long way towards improving morale. It is important we keep up with wage inflationary pressures. I am a firm believer in zero based budgeting and planning for the future, to eliminate surprises.
5. Student discipline seems to be a major concern as there are reports from the schools about issues arising . Is there anything you would favor to improve the situation?
We need to explore methods and policies strengthening reading and comprehension issues for students. The studies are clear, if a child can read and comprehend before entering the 4th grade, there is less discipline necessary including the need for more prison cells. Why don’t we spend our time getting kids excited about learning so we can be excited when they graduate?
6. The Sioux Falls School District faces a growing disparity in poverty levels with neighboring districts in the city. What can or should the Sioux Falls district and school board do to address and prepare for this trend?
Kids need to feel wanted and important, we have many great teachers in our schools but they can only do so much. Our school system needs to consider the whole student and help the parents be more involved. My passion for openness and transparency isn’t one way. Our families need to feel their children are equal, no matter what neighborhood they are in or from. The policy to do this starts with the policy making body called the school board.