Noblesville reader: take time to get to know your school board candidates

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Dear Editor:

As we approach the elections this November, I encourage my fellow Noblesville residents to get to know the candidates for our school board.

This board has an enormous responsibility, overseeing nearly 11,000 students and over 1,600 staff members. The decisions made by the school board impact every aspect of our district, from educational quality to staff well-being, and they also involve the management of your tax dollars, which constitute a significant portion of your property taxes. We all have felt the pinch of rising tax bills over the past few years, and it is crucial to understand how the candidates plan to address these financial challenges.

To make an informed decision, it is essential to delve deep into the candidates’ platforms. Ask them about their plans for funding, budgets, and referendums. These elements are the backbone of how our schools operate and thrive. A well-thought-out budget can mean the difference between a thriving educational environment and one that struggles to meet basic needs. In the coming years, Indiana is expected to alter its property tax calculations, which will undoubtedly impact school funding. This potential shift underscores the importance of electing board members who are not only proactive but also experienced in navigating these complex financial landscapes.

These elected officials will face uncharted waters in school financing. They will be tasked with making tough choices that could affect the quality of education our children receive. Are the candidates prepared to handle such responsibilities? Do they have the wisdom and foresight to manage our district’s financial health effectively? Engaging with the candidates on these critical questions will provide insights into their capabilities and priorities.

Moreover, understanding their motivations is crucial. Are they running for the board to genuinely improve our schools, or do they have other agendas? Knowing what drives them can help predict how they will perform under pressure and whether they will prioritize the needs of students and staff.

Community engagement is paramount in this process. Attending town hall meetings, candidate forums, and other public events where candidates speak can provide invaluable information. These platforms offer a chance to ask direct questions and hear candidates outline their visions for the future of our schools. Additionally, reviewing candidates’ past records and endorsements can shed light on their experience and reliability.

Participating in these discussions and staying informed can lead to a more educated voting decision. Our school board members will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape and managing the financial resources of our district. Their decisions will affect not only our children but also the overall well-being of our community. Therefore, it is not just our right but our duty to ensure that we choose the most qualified and dedicated individuals for these positions.

In closing, I urge every Noblesville resident to take this election seriously. Get to know the candidates, scrutinize their plans for our district, and understand their motivations. Your vote will contribute to the future of our schools and our community. Make sure it counts.

Lastly, don’t just stop at understanding – take the next step and go out to vote. Your participation is crucial in shaping a prosperous future for our children and our schools. Thank you.

Kevin Kalstad
Noblesville