Name: Ruth Nelson.
Qualifications: I am the current school board chairperson and chairperson of the Curriculum Committee with nine years' experience on the board. During my tenure the board has hired two superintendents. I have a degree in business management from the University of Minnesota and experience in public relations, marketing and management.
What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I would continue to focus on strong curriculum, well-managed finances, appropriate class sizes, and communication with our stakeholders. In the past few years the board has lowered class sizes and has achieved an average of 25 students or less per grade in our elementary schools; we also added several teaching positions at Forestview. Last spring the board selected a new superintendent and we also began the year with a new director of teaching and learning and Community Education director. With all these changes it is time for the board to take a fresh look at our long range plan.
Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: A board member must work with the rest of the board and administration to set and accomplish goals. We will be reviewing and revising the district's long range plan together and creating priorities that address the goals we identify. I hope to remain the chair of the Curriculum Committee
and will work with the director of teaching and learning to maintain our consistent review and adoption of curriculum. I have always felt it is important to visit our schools and classrooms and will continue to listen to staff, students, parents, and the community at large.
