School Board Life

Bloomington School Board

Heritage Days Parade 2013

I was first elected to the Bloomington School Board in 2013 when my kids were in preschool and kindergarten and at the time I thought it would be awesome if I was on the school board long enough to hand my kids their diplomas. Well twelve years later they are now in 10th and 11th grade, so I need one more term. It has been the honor of a lifetime serving Bloomington and with your help I can continue serving for another four years.

During my twelve years of service as a Board member, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and actively contributed to the governance and progress of our district in numerous ways: serving as Chair, Clerk, Treasurer, and am currently Vice Chair for the third time. I helped govern the district through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, prioritizing facts and science in our decision-making. I took part in the superintendent search that brought our exceptional current leader to Bloomington. Recognizing the importance of board engagement in policy, I advocated for and helped establish the Board's Policy Committee. I also championed the inclusion of student school board members to ensure student voices are heard at the highest level.

Kennedy Graduation 2024
Handing kids their diplomas is the best part of this job

Student School Board Reps for the 2024-2025 School Year joining us in St. Paul to speak to legislators

While serving, I've had to make difficult decisions, including budget cuts, staff layoffs, and school closures, always striving to prioritize the long-term well-being of our students and district. I've dedicated countless hours to advocating for BPS and public education with local, state, and federal policymakers. I've been deeply involved in the passage of three referendums that have provided crucial funding for our schools, enhancing security and technology. I participated in a comprehensive strategic planning process that shaped our district's vision, mission, and core values. And those are just a few highlights.

Intermediate School District #917

ISD #917 provides special education, career and technical education, and alternative education for students in the southeast metro area of Minnesota. The governing body of ISD #917 is comprised of one board member from each of its nine member school districts, including Bloomington.

As Bloomington's representative, elected by the Bloomington School Board, I joined the #917 School Board in January of 2020. My background in special education has made this a particularly meaningful service. I currently serve as Board Chair, following two years as Vice Chair, and have been actively involved in key initiatives such as a superintendent search and a strategic planning process. Recognizing the critical challenge of teacher shortages, I have been part of the board's efforts to implement innovative solutions, including hiring international teachers and establishing the first special education teacher apprenticeship program in the state. While balancing responsibilities on two school boards presents unique demands, it is work I am deeply committed to and find incredibly fulfilling.