Colfax School Board Candidate: Gary Stene
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COLFAX — Five candidates are running for three positions on the Colfax Board of Education in the April 7 election.
The candidates are Jaclyn Ackerlund, Ken Bjork, Christie Hill, Jodi Kiekhafer and Gary Stene.
The Colfax Messenger sent out questionnaires to each of the candidates. Here are Gary Stene’s answers to the questionnaire.
• What is your occupation? Retired.
• Tell us about your family.
Married 55 years to Cheryl; two daughters; seven grandkids; 3 great-grandkids.
• What is your educational background? One year of college.
• Why did you decide to run for the Colfax Board of Education? I recently retired and have the time and desire to make a positive contribution.
• What makes you suited to serve on the school board?
I have a long history of public service and want to add whatever I can to advancing our schools and helping our children. I previously served on the school board for two years when the new high school was built. I am currently serving on the Dunn County Board and served two terms in the 1980s. And I previously served as village president for 10 years.
• Besides the budget, what do you believe to be the biggest challenges or issues facing the Colfax school district?
Getting the kids ready for life and giving them the tools to succeed.
• How would you suggest addressing those challenges or issues for the Colfax school district?
I think the district should continue working with CVTC on internships, apprentice programs, and utilizing taking college credit courses in high school to give our students a leg up. I think we also need to look at raising teacher pay for excellence and for retention of them.
• What other ideas do you have for improving the school district?
I have been out of the loop in education circles for some time and need to listen and see what I can add if possible.
• Why are you the best candidate?
I do not know if I am the best candidate. The people will decide that. I feel I am a good candidate. I am interested in seeing our school be excellent on all levels.