The Boise School District has two trustee spots up for grabs on Sept. 6, and four candidates are running.
We’ve published the candidates’ names before — but the district has posted biographical information provided by each of the candidates.
Here are the thumbnails (click on the candidates’ names for more details):
Stephen Adams. A staff attorney for Ada County, Adams touts his experience representing school districts and school boards across the state.
When change is necessary, it should be done in a thoughtful and economic way,” said Adams, 38. “Throwing money at a problem is rarely the best answer to a situation, and I would strive to avoid that. The best practice, where possible, is to prepare for the future; in other words, take steps now to be able to have the best options when the need for action arises.”
Beth Oppenheimer. Since 2010, Oppenheimer has worked as executive director of the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children. Oppenheimer is a high-profile advocate for pre-kindergarten programs.
“I will work in partnership with the superintendent and fellow trustees to make thoughtful decisions to address the increasing demands on the budget, Boise’s growing population and the continued challenge of balancing assessments with student achievements,” said Oppenheimer, 46. “It is our responsibility to look toward the future and work together to help prepare our students for life beyond school.”
Dave Wagers. The lone incumbent in the field, Wagers was appointed to the board in January 2015. The president of the Idaho Candy Co. touts his business background and work on the district’s facilities committee.
“I have made the study of the ‘business of school’ my recent focus in life. I have learned that schools run on tight budgets and have dedicated staff that will do whatever it takes to aid the education process. I consider teachers the greatest assets of our school district and that our goal of educating students for college and career readiness requires first listening to the many stakeholders involved in a child’s education.”
Monica Walker. A senior loan officer, Walker says her focus is creating a varied learning environment, with “smaller classes, rich curriculum, diverse electives, advanced placement, and career-technical courses.”
Said Walker, 44: “I live in a union household and believe the Boise School District needs to continue viewing the (Boise Education Association) as a partner in the delivery of a superior education. Our teachers are the most talented in the state and they deserve to have the best wages, benefits, and working conditions in the state and should rival the large urban districts throughout the Northwest.”
The top two vote-getters will be elected to six-year board terms.
Meet the candidates: The Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce will host a trustee candidate’s forum from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Aug. 25 at the chamber’s offices, 250 S. 5th St. Click here to register.
