As I prepare to wrap up my service on the ISD 181 Board of Education, I wish to thank the community, incredible staff, my fellow board members, and, most of all, my family. I set out on this journey two years ago when I filed for candidacy, excited to serve our students. The challenges and opportunities have been unprecedented. I appreciate every thoughtful conversation, difficult decision, and celebratory moment as I learned from them all. I learned we live in a passionate community with a rich history at Brainerd Public Schools. I learned we can do hard things, and our staff, students and parents are resilient.
I’ve lived, worked and raised a family in Brainerd for over 20 years. My husband and daughter both graduated from BHS as will our son in two years. We’re a family of Warriors. That won’t change when our address changes. I believe we all have an incredible opportunity to step up and support our schools. With new buildings, stellar staff, a fantastic superintendent, and a strong board of education, the future is bright! We can choose to dwell on the past and run with the social media rumor of the day or lean in, engage, and support the good. I believe we owe it to our students to show them what it looks like to lead, not follow.
I can assure you with 100% certainty, the folks who continue to sit at the board table after I leave have our students’ best interest at heart. Support them, engage with them, and lead with them. I wish the best to Dr. Hahn and the entire ISD 181 team during the 2022-23 school year. Our family will continue to support Brainerd Public Schools! Thank you for this incredible opportunity. I learned so much and am forever grateful.
Jana Shogren
Brainerd
The Trust Project
