Northwest Missouri Republican Club hosts school board forum
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The Northwest Missouri Republican Club hosted a school board candidate forum on Thursday night.
The forum was held at Bandana's Bar-B-Q located at 4225 Frederick Ave.
All six candidates were in attendance and had the opportunity to share their positions, ideas and concerns for the St. Joseph School District during the moderated forum.
One of the questions asked by the moderator, was for candidates to give their opinion on what would further community engagement.
"We have to be transparent with the community, I mean, that's the only way we're gonna move forward," said Jennifer Kerns, one of the six candidates.
"When it comes to conflict and dealing with conflict, it's important to acknowledge everyone's expertise in their own specific areas," said James Mrkvicka, another School Board candidate.
Another question asked was how candidates would approach any conflicts or disagreements on the Board, while showing respect for others.
"If we don't listen, we don't hear what is being said to us," said Kim Miller. "We don't relate."
"When it comes to conflict and dealing with conflict, it's important to acknowledge everyone's expertise in their own specific areas," said Cassandra Veale.
Candidates also talked about how they would make decisions on policies when implementing facts and community opinions.
"I only rely on facts," said Kenneth Reeder.
"Even though we might get data from other sources, we have to ask, does that fit St. Joseph, Missouri?" said Brian Kirk.
Candidates were also asked about what an effective high school model would look like.
Miller said she had to respect the decisions already made by the current board, Reeder said he was in favor of building a new school, but to leave Benton and Lafayette alone.
Kerns said, as long as students and teachers are able to get the resources they need, whether it comes from building a new school or renovating current facilities, the district should give the kids something they should be proud of.
Both Kirk and Mrkvicka said a two-school model would make sense, due to the population decline. However, Mrkvicka noted the implementation of the model is still a little premature.
Veale said, although her "heart said no, but her head said yes", she realized the change to a two-high school model was needed when she noticed inequities in course offerings when her children began to attend high school.
Candidates also talked about implementing a four-day school week, how discipline issues in the district should be addressed, open enrollment, opening up a DEI administration position at the St. Joseph School District and more.
