Getting to know your school board candidates

Samantha Marie Harris

How long have you lived here?

6 years, 8 months. I have a significant other, Andy Wright, and two children Ella, age 6, and Cora, age 3.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your top priorities?

I am running for school board because I want to better the education that we provide our students. I have a lot of priorities. My top priority is ensuring that all students are receiving the best education possible.

Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board?

Not necessarily, I would just like to be more involved in our schools and the community.

What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?

I have a great understanding of policy and procedure, I am a very patient person that strives to do what is right.

Why should you be elected?

I care about our schools, I am open minded, and I value all concerns, opinions, and suggestions.

What differentiates you from the other candidate and board members?

I am a parent, I am 25 years old, and I am relatively new to this community.

What is a school board member's role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration?

To make educational decisions, and adopt and oversee the annual budget. Set policies, hire and evaluate the superintendent. Address the concerns of the community, students, parents, teachers, and all of the school staff members. A board member's role is different than the superintendent because the board oversees the superintendent.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not?

Yes, I could support a decision that I did not vote in favor of because we should make decisions together as a board and we should always see the positive in every decision that is made.

How can the board be accessible to the community?

By being approachable, and taking time to listen and understand the concerns of the community, let the community know that the board values their thoughts. Have open school board meetings, and post information on the school website.

What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? Classes being cut due to a lack of funding. The financial status of the schools.

Shay Scott Beyer

How long have you lived here?

50 years. I am divorced and have a twenty-six year old son.

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will be your top priorities?

I am running because I have experience working for the school district as well as experience with the students, staff members, and the district's fiscal responsibilities.

Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board?

Knowledge that I have of the high school and new grade school buildings.

What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?

My past employment doing maintenance for the district and my approachable personality.

Why should you be elected?

I care about the kids and the staff.

What differentiates you from the other candidate and board members?

I am a neutral party and worked for the school first-hand.

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 make decisions on those topics that are big and not always easy, as a group. The difference is that the superintendent works for the board.

Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not?

Yes, even if it is not the way you voted, you still have to work together to ultimately benefit the students and/or staff.

How can the board be accessible to the community?

By ensuring that the public knows to get their ideas and concerns put on the monthly agenda.

What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?

The budget deficit.