ELECTION GUIDE: Esko School Board - Seven candidates

There are a total of seven candidates vying for three seats on the Esko School Board, and there are profiles of all seven of them within this file. So please read all the way to the bottom before you make your decision.

Todd Rengo (incumbent)

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

My wife Sandra and I are lifelong Eskomos who raised four kids in this community. I have a Biology/Ed degree from CSS and I'm a financial advisor with Thrivent Financial. I've been involved coaching and volunteering here for 30-plus years, along with serving as school board clerk and vice-chair.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

I'm running for my third term with the same focus I ran on 8 years ago. I want to ensure that we maintain a fiscally responsible district that continues to be a performance leader in the region and state, through thoughtful planning, spending, and adapting to prepare students for tomorrow.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

Like most rural districts, our biggest hurdle is managing budgets that meet our needs in the most efficient manner possible. As one of the lowest funded districts in the state, we must always balance spending needs and outcomes. The largest impact on a district's budget from year to year is student enrollment. Esko is an attractive destination for new families and open-enrollment students, which is due in part to our high test scores, graduation rate, College in the Schools classes, variety in the curriculum, and strong support for arts, athletics, and other extracurricular opportunities, such as robotics.

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

Because of the district's early adoption of 1 to 1 technology and curriculum, our transition to distance and remote learning was as efficient as any district in the state. The district's healthy financial position allowed us to add staffing and programming to meet the unique challenges that arose, and to provide additional individual student support both during the school year and through summer mentoring programs.

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

Exposure to different perspectives, views, and experiences allows for the development of empathy, understanding, and critical thinking skills that are essential to navigate today's society. Eliminating that access for everyone because it doesn't fit an individual's personal views is shortsighted. The district utilizes an advisory committee and process when developing or adapting curriculum which helps to guide thoughtful decision making.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

As we did over the previous two years, we need to rely on the scientific insight from health care professionals at CDC and MDH, in conjunction with local data, to make informed decisions at the district level. Board members must be able to remove personal feelings and opinions from the decision process when dealing with public health policies, prioritizing the health and safety of students and staff over advancing outside agendas.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

The safety of our students and staff is paramount. Over the past several years, we have made safety improvements to building entrances, cameras, systems, and technology. We continue to prioritize security with our 10-year facilities plan, specifically identifying community access into the school via the fitness center. A capital project to relocate the fitness center will create a more secure campus and provide an updated facility that fits into a broader strategic building enhancement.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

This is a constant balance that districts our size face. With limited budgets, we've been able to maintain exceptional programming and consistently lead the region in all measures of school performance. The "how" is complex but boils down to maintaining stable enrollment which allows for predictable budgeting. Without this, it's nearly impossible for districts to implement long term goals because funding dries up before reaching that stage. Stable enrollment results from reliably providing a quality learning and extra-curricular experience for students.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

I'm committed to making informed decisions that will support students and empower teachers while keeping the district accountable to the community. My prior board experience will prove valuable as we implement our new ten-year facilities plan. I will continue to provide leadership and oversight across all aspects of the district.

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

Collaboration is essential for small, rural schools who otherwise couldn't offer many of the opportunities common in larger districts. It allows students opportunities to pursue and experience interests that build a well-rounded education. With limited budgets, sharing resources is a win for everyone.

John Feely

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

My wife and I have three kids and I run a construction business. I serve on the youth hockey and baseball boards. Prior to moving to Esko, I served 8 years in the Air Force, three of which I was a professor at the Air Force Academy.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

With kids in second through fourth grades, now is a good time to help make a positive impact on our district and I have a lot to contribute. The pandemic highlighted the importance of the school board and how their decisions directly affect the educational outcomes for our students.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

The biggest challenge we face is the continuous growth of our district and how this growth will impact our aging infrastructure. Esko will need to improve our facilities over the next few years. We need to ensure that decisions made on which projects to take on are informed and strategically planned out. The projects taken on need to be managed effectively so taxpayers get value for their money. With my experience in construction, I manage large construction projects every day and would be an asset to the district in this area.

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

I believe our school did a good job keeping our students in school as much as possible through the pandemic compared to some of our neighboring districts. There were many difficult decisions that the board made during this time. For the most part they didn't rush into decisions and waited to collect facts. That being said, there were decisions that I disagreed with, but I appreciated their approach when coming to those difficult decisions.

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

Unfortunately, politics have crept into our education systems now more than ever. I believe politics should be kept out of schools. The education our children receive should be centered around developing relationships and treating others with respect and dignity. The curriculum should be focused on the core subjects they will need to be successful in the workforce or in higher education. Politically motivated or controversial topics can be saved for discussions at home.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

Having experienced the pandemic with three children in school, I believe kids get the most out of their education when they are at school. Everyone was affected differently by the pandemic but in general I believe there was a lot of damage done to our children's mental health and their intellectual and social development by keeping them out of school. We can keep kids in school while still balancing public health and mitigating appropriate risks.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

School security and emergency management is an emerging threat that affects all schools. Our district has plans that have been adequate for managing threats over the past few decades but as the world changes, we need to evolve with it to ensure our children's safety. We can do more to improve physical security as well as planning and preparation of our students and staff. This needs to continue to be looked at year over year.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

I believe the biggest key to success for education starts and ends with the teaching staff. At Esko we have created a strong culture of dedication and engagement, our staff is some of the best in the state. Teachers love to teach at Esko and parents want their kids to go here because of our staff. As budgets get tight, we need to remain focused on supporting our people first so we can continue to maintain this culture and attract the best teachers. Great teachers create great programs and enhance opportunities for learning.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

People should vote for me because of my down to earth logical fact-based approach to problem solving. I have three young children in the district and have a vested interest in making the best decisions possible focused on what's best for students. Finally, I have experience as an educator.

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

Esko has done a great job of cultivating a positive culture of learning and school pride with our teachers, students, and administration. We have demonstrated success and can continue this without consolidation. If there are opportunities that enhance learning or athletics through collaboration with neighboring schools, then I am supportive.

Maggie (Margaret) Sunnarborg (incumbent)

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

My name is Maggie (Margaret) Sunnarborg. I am a wife, mother, grandmother, church member and community volunteer. I was the Family & Consumer Sciences teacher in Esko for 36 years before retiring in 2010. It has been my honor to serve on the school board the last 12 years.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

I chose to run again because I care about our community, our faculty, staff, and students. Education has always been my passion. I believe, as a woman, teacher, parent, and current grandparent of kids in the Esko School that I bring a valuable and unmatched perspective to the School Board.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

The biggest issue we face today is school safety. This issue weighs on our minds with every decision we make. As a board member, I have been an advocate for safety audits, which we do regularly. We are working on a long range facility plan that puts school safety at the forefront. We have recently updated all school entrances so they adhere to the highest safety standard. I would also encourage parents, staff, faculty and students to come forward when they see a safety concern. I would love to hear from you!

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

I think we handled the pandemic well. We did the best that we could with the information we had at the time. As a result our school community stayed relatively healthy and our students were able to continue to receive a great education. We supported our staff and they worked incredibly hard in tough circumstances. Students who were struggling academically were identified and given resources to help get them back on track.

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

The school board has a responsibility to oversee the policies and procedures of the district. It is not our job to be involved in the day-to-day activities. We hire qualified people to give our students a well-rounded education and operate the school, while upholding the policies and procedures we have set forth.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

We will do everything we can to keep our school community safe and healthy. I am not a healthcare expert, so I will look to those who are for guidance. We will use common sense and maintain quality control to the best of our ability. We know the importance of clean hands and sanitizing, as well as the need for kids to be in school. If you're sick, stay home.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

We must be more diligent than ever in providing a safe environment for our students and staff. We must listen to students when they voice a concern. We must never believe it can't happen in our school. We have guidelines in place that everyone must follow. We have improved our emergency communication systems, added the Crisis Go app, upgraded our cameras, and will continue to have ongoing training. We CANNOT be too careful.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

Currently, Esko is not experiencing this issue. The district must keep a strong fund balance. We have a budget, and we work very hard to stay within that budget. In order to keep our enrollment strong, our school success needs to continue. If this continues, we will continue to be an attractive community for families to reside.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

I hope the community will vote for me because I am a fighter. I surround myself with people who help me maintain a quality school with strong values. I hope the public also knows they can trust me. I love what I'm doing and am ready to work for you!

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

Consolidation or greater collaboration works for some school districts. But, it all goes back to the students. What is the BEST for them? We are fortunate to partner with neighboring communities to offer certain extracurricular activities and classes, but are also able to stand on our own.

There are a total of seven candidates vying for three seats on the Esko School Board.

Mark Nyholm

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

I am a husband and father, a professional businessman, a volunteer and proud member of Esko. I have worked in the engineering profession for the past 23 years. I excel in project leadership, strategy and planning, and financial stewardship. I have a history of successful decisions based on data.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

There are opportunities in our district that require strategic planning to improve, a skill that I excel with. I will support the administration to improve upon the problems of today, while focusing on the problems of tomorrow and beyond.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

The mental health of our children is a significant concern. One in ten children are bullied weekly, but digitally today and less physical. Combine this with the past two years pandemic, increased divorce rates, higher use of drugs and alcohol in the home, and increased violence in the news and the mental health of our children is degrading. Mental health issues result in apathy and disrespect for staff with added complications of disciplinary action. And when children struggle mentally, they suffer academically. This isn't an issue we can fix with the flip of a light switch. It will take focus, planning, and dedication.

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

I would be remiss in not recognizing the board for their dedication and stamina to ensure our students can come to school and get a solid education. Everyone has an opinion and these days quick to pass judgment. Put yourself in the school board's shoes and you'll feel the stress of making the best decision for the children, the staff and the community 'or the while knowing that you cannot appease everyone.

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

Change is inevitable. We need to ensure our children have a firm understanding of this country's history. The good and bad parts. Its this history that we learn from and improve upon. We cannot simply erase our past. We do need a level of standardization and shouldn't be creating niche teaching curriculum based on the personal opinions of a small group of individuals. If allowed would be a disservice to our children.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

If the state mandates requirements for the district, the district must follow. If the state allows us to control our own destiny, we must do what is best for children, staff and parents. Those that want to wear masks can. If your child is sick with a fever, they should stay home until fever free. Our district has successfully worked through illness for over a hundred years now and we will continue to be successful.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

Prevention is worth a pound of cure. We need additional proactive measures to protect from the onset of these incidents which include focus on school safety and mental health. There are additional physical things we can do to deter these incidents. We can improve our reaction plans as well. Focusing on mental health to head off these incidents should be a focus.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

Fiscal responsibility. There are two sides to the ledger. Income and expenditures. When the income declines, a balanced budget requires expenditures to also decline. Tightening down the hatches can be difficult but is the responsibility of everyone in the district. Cost reduction can come from many ways and it is the goal to drive down costs that do not impact the quality of education provided. This also opens the doors to find income in alternative ways. Grants can be written. Fundraisers can be had. Partnering with nearby districts can make sense. Strategy and planning provides focus during these times.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

I'm an honest individual with high integrity. Two words I've lived by my entire life. My intentions are genuine. To improve our districts facilities, its safety, its education, its student opportunities, its communication all while maintaining the high graduation standard we are used to.

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

Both proposals require more children in one place. If it can be done while offering small personal class sizes and be fiscally viable then it should be evaluated. My focus would be to ensure the quality of education remains high.

Richard "Rich" Kresky

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

My family and I have lived in Esko for 37 years, where I coached Esko little league baseball. I was an engineering (CAD) technician before becoming a full-time faculty member within the Integrated Manufacturing-Engineering CAD Technology Program at Lake Superior College. I'm in my 31st year there.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

It's time for me to give back from my knowledge and especially school/college related experiences. I very much enjoy teaching students (with current curriculum) and seeing them succeed. After LSC, many students may be getting their first real job after flipping burgers.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

For Esko, it's community growth. Currently that includes student growth also, but demographics do change. This should be looked at with both short and long term visions.

Additionally, many schools also have challenges with ongoing technical advances and safety/security issues. Budgets are always tight; we must use our money and current resources wisely.

Music, sports, general academics, and Industrial technology are doing well. Industrial tech could grow. I do have Esko graduates in my classes at LSC and they perform very well. Esko school seems to always be buzzing and it has a very good reputation in the region.

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

The completion of the 10-year long term facilities plan with the community involved in the process. Seeking ongoing community involvement in many school-related issues. Continued work on the school vision to keep current with today's society.

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

The school board is and should be involved in curriculum decisions. A board member should be seeking input from all who are academically involved in the classroom plus parents, and community members. Curriculum should be directed to the subject taught as noted in the approved course outline and/or syllabus. Books to be read should be age appropriate for the student and not contain any bias. We do live in a complex society.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

I am generally satisfied with how the pandemic was handled in the recent past. Too bad it had to affect our livelihood and businesses the way it did. We must care for our health. Depending on the subject taught, some of my (shop) students learned less by distance. Overall students were happy to be back in the classroom at the end of the pandemic. If the pandemic surges we are better prepared to handle it.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

I do see that Esko is moving in the right direction on this. Mental health awareness, counseling, security at building entrances, cameras, locking down are all being discussed and/or implemented. Do we have "active shooter" training for staff? Do we have safety and security training for all? Scary stuff but it is better to be prepared than to be surprised.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

Esko schools are currently not experiencing declining enrollment but, again, demographics do change. We must make efficient use of our current assets and be frugal in our current and future spending. I am not saying be cheap: when purchasing new resources be reasonable and acquire quality goods. Take care of and maintain equipment as best we can. Share resources between grades/courses as much as possible. Remember "Money doesn't grow on trees." We are using the district taxpayers' money and must use it wisely. All curriculums must remain current, and programming should be directed to the regional industry and jobs.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

My strength is in career and technical education. I would like to work with the Industrial Technology department to fulfill Esko's goal to enhance the trades. I want to work with curriculum development and articulation partnerships (which provide a variety of subject choices and avenues) between local schools and colleges.

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

I encourage it as much as possible because of limited resources. But do it if it's in close proximity and does not create too much of a negative financial impact. It is not an "us and them" relationship between districts. Parties should cooperate/coordinate for the good of all students.

Robert Johnson

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

I have been a member of the Esko community since 1991 when my family moved here. I grew up in Esko graduating in 2007. Following graduation, I attended CSS where I obtained my BS in biochemistry followed by the completion of my Doctorate of Pharmacy at the University of Minnesota.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

I would like to serve on the Esko School Board to give back to the community that prepared me for a successful future. I am hoping to join the school board to continue excelling the district which has always succeeded in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

I believe the biggest challenge facing our school district is the looming staffing shortage in public schools. Fewer qualified individuals are applying for positions, especially those in the special education, paraprofessional and English departments. On top of the lack of applicants, current teachers are leaving the profession at an alarming rate. According to a recent NEA survey of 3,621 educators, what it will take to address the issue includes, "higher salaries, providing additional mental supports for students, hiring more teachers, hiring more support staff, and less paperwork."

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

The height of the pandemic was a dismal time for schools, school boards and communities. The Esko community was lucky to have a high-functioning school board in place that adapted to ever-changing guidelines from the governor, Minnesota Department of Health, and CDC. Although unpopular to some, I believe our school board's decisions were made with the best interest of our students and staff safety and health.

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

Curriculum changes need to be in the best interest of all students. Any changes proposed that aim to oppress or ignore a minority group of students or staff should not be welcomed in a public-school setting. It is reasonable at times for parents to opt their children out of certain parts of a curriculum, but banning books is a form of censorship which removes valuable resources from other students who may benefit.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

At this point in the pandemic much more is known than in the early stages. Vaccinations are readily available and effective for those who want them. When individuals do contract the virus, treatments are much easier to come by and more effective than the early days of the pandemic. With recent national test scores plummeting to levels unseen in decades due to the pandemic, we must do everything possible to avoid future school closures.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

Our students' safety needs to be any districts top priority. First off, we should implement expert-endorsed school security upgrades including locks, entry controls and up-to-date security cameras. On top of that, small communities such as ours should partner with local law enforcement to develop robust crisis prevention programs. Finally, students and staff need to be frequently reminded to speak up when they see/hear something suspicious since 93% of school shooters plan their attacks in advance.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

Many small public schools throughout the state are struggling financially. A primary driver of the state's public school funding system is enrollment, which means small districts must provide the same services and benefits that larger schools do, but with less income. Knowing this, I believe it is important to focus on open enrollment in our district. This will allow us to grow our revenue without needing to cut expenditures. Furthermore, I find it imperative to be transparent about our district's budget with parents, staff, and community members. With the community's financial goals in mind, a district can spend more creatively and efficiently.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

I am not running for school board on a single issue, for personal gain, or to make drastic changes. Instead, I am hoping to join the Esko School Board to continue fostering the district's tradition of excellence. I will serve as a trusted, collaborative member motivated by interests of all students.

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

Although consolidation of districts is sometimes necessary due to lack of student enrollment or a declining general fund, I believe it's important to avoid mergers if possible. Local schools bring a great sense of pride to small communities, and this identity is often dampened due to mergers, even if they do make financial sense.

Russell Kurhajetz

1. Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications. (limit 50 words)

I have experience as an elected official, board chair, as well as working with county board, state representatives and senators advocating for conservation. I have spoken at state legislative committees and one on one with state legislative leadership.

2. What made you decide to run for school board this year? (limit 50 words)

Esko is one of the best districts in the state of Minnesota. There aren't major changes I'd like to make, but I'd like to bring my experience as a previous homeschooling parent and find ways to improve information on what is happening in the school with parents.

3. What do you think is the top issue facing the school district and how would you like to see it addressed? (limit 100 words)

An area of improvement is better communication with parents. We do a great job of meeting with students but my daughter told me about the great class offerings in 9th grade. We found the course catalog and I was astounded at all of the options. We could better communicate with parents in advance so they can work with their kids to plan classes or pursue other interests.

4. Elaborate on something you think the school board has handled well over the past two years. (limit 75 words)

Our school uses technology very effectively. Having that in place set us up for success when the pandemic arrived at our doorstep compared to other districts. School boards are policy board. Decisions are made by a majority vote and to be supported after voted upon. We are neutral non-partisan elected members of a policy board. Esko's board has done well at staying in their lane allowing administration to run the school

5. Across the country, school boards are making curriculum decisions about what can be taught and what books can be read. What's your position? (limit 75 words)

Our board has a curriculum committee with representatives from the board, teacher, parents and community. While this committee should consider state and federal standards, decisions should be made locally. Before banning a book I would want more feedback from the community, transparency into what is being banned and why. For example my daughter was horrified by Edgar Allen Poe but instead of reading more of it the teacher has given other options.

6. If the pandemic surges, what's your position on masking, distance learning and other precautions? (limit 75 words)

Our role is to listen to the community, our customers. We do not run the school, we ensure it is well run by working with the only staff who directly reports to us, the Superintendent. Other districts in our region surveyed stakeholders for input during the pandemic. I would vote to set up a task force to survey the community ensuring everyone is aware of the policy decisions we are responsible for.

7. How should the board approach protecting students and staff from school shootings and mass violence? (limit 75 words)

Many of these are mental health issues but systematic improvements aren't likely to solve this. I would be interested in options if any teachers were already able to conceal/carry but not open to 'arming teachers'. Reports have shown that in most of these incidents people were aware of plans and didn't report it. I would speak with the superintendent on ways to improve openness reviewing past events, and where we need to improve.

8. Declining enrollments in small districts and budget shortfalls are a growing issue. How can schools both remain solvent and provide good education and programming? (limit 100 words)

Esko typically hasn't seen declining enrollment as an issue. Like many schools, some students are drawn to take classes outside of the district for college credit and I would like to work to find ways of offering more classes through the district independently.

9. Why should people vote for you? (limit 50 words)

I will stand by the rights of individuals and look for reason grounding myself by seeking input from multiple sides. I will always be transparent explaining each vote and open to holding town hall or other meetings to listen to all sides.

10. How do you feel about consolidation or greater collaboration with other school districts? (limit 50 words)

Consolidation isn't currently an issue at Esko. Esko has a history of collaborating with other districts having students take classes at nearby schools if we do not offer them and visa versa. If schools choose to specialize, we would gladly work with them to offer our students classes.

Editor's Note: After first posting the profiles separately, we decided it was better to keep all the candidate grouped together so readers would not miss any of the candidates. Thank you for your patience.