Candidates Unveil Urgent Priorities at Great Bend Education Forum
UPDATE: Candidates for the open seats on the Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education presented their urgent priorities at a forum held earlier today. With a significant focus on improving student outcomes and retaining quality staff, the candidates outlined actionable plans that could shape the future of education in the district.
Sarah Schenek, a prominent candidate, emphasized three core priorities if elected. First, she aims to enhance academic standards and community engagement through updated policies. Second, Schenek plans to serve as a liaison between faculty, parents, and students to foster collaboration and reduce staff turnover. Lastly, she pledged to maintain fiscal accountability to meet the district’s evolving needs. With 18 years of social service experience in the community, Schenek believes her background equips her to advocate effectively for students and parents alike.
Another candidate, Jacqueline M. Disque, who has served on the school board since 2018, highlighted the importance of making informed decisions for student success. She intends to focus on fiscal responsibility and use data from Building Needs Assessments to improve facilities. Disque also aims to work closely with staff and parents to enhance academic and social support for students, emphasizing the need for community partnerships.
Barbara S. Thoren, a retired educator from USD 428, shared her priorities centered on improving student behavior, retaining skilled paraprofessionals, and enhancing student attitudes towards state testing. Thoren’s firsthand experience in the classroom provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges educators face today.
While the forum was well-attended, it is important to note that a fourth candidate, Chad Burroughs, did not provide answers for the event. Voters can find detailed information about all local candidates on Vote411.org, a resource designed to help citizens make informed choices ahead of the upcoming election.
As the election approaches, the urgency of these discussions is palpable. The decisions made by the newly elected board members will have lasting effects on the community, impacting not only students and educators but also the broader Great Bend community. Voter engagement is critical, and the candidates are calling for residents to actively participate in shaping the future of education in the district.
Stay tuned for further updates as the election date draws near. This is a pivotal moment for Great Bend USD 428, and community involvement could make all the difference.
