School Board Candidate Profile: Katie Schwartz

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.

Katie Schwartz, of St. Paul Park, is vying for a four-year term.

Check back on Patch for more candidate profiles.

Patch: Why are you running for school board?

Schwartz: I am running because it is time for some fresh faces and new ideas on the board.

We need a board that is willing to listen to what the people want and need. I want to ensure that all students have equal opportunities regardless of ability. I want to work on closing the achievement gap and make sure that all students are ready for life after high school.

Patch: What qualifications do you have?

Schwartz: I was a member of the boundary committee and of the Park High School Cheerleading Booster Club. I currently am a member of the Pullman PTA and volunteer in the schools.

I volunteer within the community and have been on many different boards throughout the community. I have lived in this district my entire life. I know this district because

I have lived this district. My children all attend, have, or will attended district schools. I have a child on all levels of the academic spectrum from special education to an IB/AP gifted student. This knowledge of all areas of the spectrum would make me an asset to the board.

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

Schwartz: I will be voting Yes, Yes, Yes.

I believe that questions one and two are needed in order to keep programs available to the kids and to keep them safe when they are at school. I do wish the referendums would have addressed transportation problems since that is a big concern for parents within the district.

Question three will help the district in the long run. If the district is able to secure land at a cheaper rate now it will save taxpayers money in the future when the building of an elementary and middle school becomes necessary.

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

Schwartz: We need to ensure that all students are receiving equal opportunities regardless if their abilities. All students need to be equally prepared for life after high school.

AVID does a great job of preparing students in that program and IB/AP students are also prepared due to the rigorous course work they have during High School. I am concerned with students that aren’t in those programs. I would like to see more study skills opportunities and more help regarding ACT and SAT’s.

Transportation is also an issue facing a lot of students. Walking distances are to far as they stand right now and there needs to be something addressed to resolve this problem.  

Patch: Anything else you'd like to add?

Schwartz: For more information about me please see my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/katieschwartzforschoolboard or email me at katie4schoolboard@yahoo.com.

Previous Profiles

Tracy Brunnette

John Griffin

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