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Candidates public schools in a competitive environment. As a result attention must be given to quality curriculum that meets the needs of students today. National and state standards are a key part of curriculum design and delivery, and classroom teachers need to be creative and intentional to meeting those standards while utilizing teaching methods that best meet the learning styles of their students. It is important to be vigilant that curriculum content is based on sound science, honors culture diversity, reflects academic vigor and is age appropriate. Are we maximizing PSEO opportunities and college in the school programs? Are there ways to offer foreign language classes in elementary and middle school? Can we strengthen our arts/music programs?
7. Which do you think is more important to a school district, increasing fund balance or increasing programming? Why? For me this is not an either/ or question but one that depends on several variables. The bottom line is providing quality education and appropriate services for students working with educators who are experts in educational delivery and who are rewarded for their education and expertise. Funds need to be balanced, no institution can operate with a high debt load, and at the same time programs must be of highest quality. 8. How do you feel we could improve the public education system in our district? There is much to be proud of in ISD 15—reading The Courier each month confirms the many good things happening in classrooms and in extra curricular activities daily. One of the weak
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links has been the divisive relationships and attitudes within the school board. We all need to be on the “same page” focused on quality learning opportunities for all. Making decisions based on the vision and mission statements of the district should be a goal of all persons in roles of leadership. All of us involved in the district—administration, educators, supporting staff, volunteers—need to model integrity, positive attitudes toward our schools and build a respectful environment for all. 9. How do you think decisions should be made that affect curriculum, assessment, staffing and school management? (Role of Educators, Role of Site Council, Role of School Board) These are decisions that should be made by professional educators with input from appropriate stakeholders (might include the school board if these decisions impact school policy). I would hope that administrators in particular would involve stakeholders as appropriate. The site management system has been in place in ISD 15 for several years and in most cases has been good for schools with a way for structured and meaningful input by parents and others. 10. What role do you think educators should play in the decisions made at the local schools? Local school educators are hired because of their academic training, life and
teaching experiences. They are “in the trenches”, “on the front line”working with students every day. They see, sense, observe, instruct and evaluate content, methods, and working relationships, on a daily basis. Consequently, their input is invaluable and needed in local school decision-making. 11. In the next five years, what are the greatest challenges facing public education in Minnesota? In our district? In Minnesota • Balancing the many demands in education today—“well rounded” academic programs— science, technology, math, engineering, arts, athletics, social sciences with human development, relationships and community engagement. All this within limited resources. • Finding the balance and interplay between humans and technology—the hi-tech /hi touch concept of futurist John Naisbitt in his book Megatrends. • Preparing the future work force not only with technical skills but work ethics, responsibility and dependability. • Closing the achievement gaps. In our district • Making wise decisions in a divisive political climate and economic uncertainties. • Student enrollment—are we offering the “best choice” in the educational marketplace to attract and keep students? • Maintaining manageable
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class sizes that foster optimal student/teacher ratios • Financing for programs and people. 12. Do you have any other thoughts that you would like to share with us? Thank you for this opportunity to work with Education Minnesota, St. Francis Local 1977. You have posed some very thoughtful questions that reflect interests and concerns of educators today. It is my honor to be a candidate for ISD 15 School Board. You are right it does take a bit of courage, but I have a strong passion for education and public service which I hope is reflected in my responses. I invite your support.
Scott Schwarz
Running for 2 year term 1. What issues caused you to run for the school board and what are your strengths or qualifications? We have four children who have all attended and graduated from St. Francis High School, there are a number of programs and student enrichment areas I would like to see be continued. In addition, as costs increase, we need to confirm we are working within the budget and resources are being spent on the students.. What qualifies me is what may qualify a number of people, Continued, Page 33
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The Courier | November 2013 | www.the-courier.org