Letter to the Editor: What We Should Ask Lakeville's School Board Candidates

To the editor,

There has been plenty of discussion on Lakeville Patch about candidates for local, state, and even national office. But what’s been missing so far is much information about those who seek election to school board for Lakeville Area Schools.

I am sharing this list of questions in hopes of starting some discussion and debate over our choices. As candidates (or their proxies) reach out to our community over the next month or so, it's my hope that these questions will be addressed. I've tried to write these questions to show no bias toward any candidate or issue; please read none into their wording.

Surely there are plenty of stones left unturned - this list is not comprehensive and that's by design. It's my hope that these questions start some meaningful, productive conversation over who should sit on our school board.

1. How has your formal education and life experience prepared you for service as a school board member?

2. This year Lakeville has a pool of qualified candidates for school board.  Why should voters choose you?  

3. As you see it, what are the biggest challenges facing Lakeville Area Schools?

4. What strengths do Lakeville Area Schools possess that you don’t see in neighboring districts?

5. What would you change about Lakeville Area Schools?

6. What qualities do you seek in the Superintendent and Cabinet members?  

7.  Finish this sentence:  “The public will know I’ve been a successful board member when...”

8. Can you/should you support a board decision that you were not in favor of?

9.  Is too much class time devoted to standardized testing?

10. Would you support and advocate for an increased operating levy in the next 2 years?

11. What do you see as the role of technology in education?

12. Do you believe school leaders (principals) should have autonomy to run their own school building?

Andy Charrier, Lakeville