School Board Candidate Profile: David Kemper

There are four four-year positions on the District 833 School Board up for election this year, and one two-year term.

Kris Janisch, Patch Staff

Posted Tue, Oct 22, 2013 at 9:42 am CT

The South Washington County School Board has five seats up for election in 2013.

Four members will be elected to four-year terms; one will be elected to fill the vacancy of the two-year term expiring Jan. 4, 2016.

There are 14 people vying for the four-year terms and three candidates for the two-year term. The election is Nov. 5.

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David Kemper, an incumbent from Woodbury, is vying for a four-year term.

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Patch: Why are you running for school board?

Kemper: I am a concerned parent of two children in our district.

I am also excited about what we have accomplished in the past four years since I have been elected and would like to offer our unique educational opportunities for all students.

Patch: What qualifications do you have?

Kemper: I am currently serving as a School Board member for the past three years.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Concordia College and have a Master’s in Information Technology from Villanova University.

I have three children; two are currently attending South Washington County Schools and one is a graduate of our district. I have been a community volunteer, a leader and a coach throughout most of my adult life.

As a parent, I am fully invested in making decisions that are in the best interest of our students, staff, parents, and other community members.

Patch: How are you voting on the three ballot questions? Why?

Kemper: As a current board member we voted to put these levy questions on the ballot.

The first question is for renewal of an existing levy of $4.6 million annually that is essential to provide a minimum level of service. This would include maintaining staffing, and minimal budget cuts.

The second question for an additional $6.9 million will allow us to hire more staff, make security enhancements, and move our walking distances back to previous year’s level.

The third question if for an additional $8 million to buy land for future expansions of schools. We are currently operating most of our schools at a 90 percent capacity and have very little room for more students. There has been solid growth in our eastern boundary areas that will keep the district growing.

Patch: What is the biggest challenge facing District 833 schools? How would you address it?

Kemper: I believe the greatest weakness of South Washington County Schools is that there seems to be a breakdown of academic progress within a couple of academic institutions located within our district.

I would like to see some more resources brought in to aid these educator’s responsible for these students and give them the opportunity to make progress toward the goal our district has set. My thoughts are that no child should be excluded from the potential to achieve excellence.

Patch: Anything else you'd like to add?

Kemper: We have a great faculty and staff and I would like to continue to provide the educational opportunities our children deserve.

I am hopeful that the good people of South Washington County Schools will consider me for re-election as we look to the future for continuing to provide a superior educational opportunities and experiences for our students and their families.

Email contact: kemper833@yahoo.com