Colfax school board candidate: Tiffany Schaffner
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COLFAX — There are two positions up for election on the Colfax Board of Education in the April 1 election, and there will be three candidates on the ballot.
The candidates are Heather Logslett, Tiffany Schaffner and Todd Kragness, who currently serves on the Colfax school board.
The Colfax Messenger sent out questionnaires to the candidates.
Here are the answers to the questionnaire from Tiffany Schaffner.
• Tell us about your family.
Husband: Mark
Kids: Graham, Eleana, and LibbyAnn
• What is your occupation?
America’s Credit Unions – Manager, Online Learning Projects.
I am currently creating educational experiences for credit union employees, providing them with access to professional speakers from across the country.
Formerly, I was the Agricultural Instructor and FFA Advisor for the Colfax School District. I loved my job and my students dearly. I dedicated a lot of time and energy to ensuring that students who graduated from the Colfax School District had the tools and confidence to succeed. I was called to take an unexpected path, which has given me the opportunity to spend more time with my biological children. But I’m not done yet. I still love the students of this community and want to ensure that they are getting every opportunity they deserve!
• What is your educational background?
I have my Bachelors in Agricultural Education from University of Wisconsin-River Falls. I have taught Agriculture in Watertown, Rosholt, and Colfax.
I have my Master’s Degree in Instructional Experience Design and Educational Technology from Western Governors University.
• Why did you decide to run for a position on the Board of Education?
Because I will make a difference. I want the students of this community to be successful, experienced, and understood. I love Colfax. I have lived in many places, but for the first time, I am HOME. I understand how families feel misunderstood, and I also know the state and national requirements for teachers. Additionally, I am aware of what is at the mercy of the administrators and the Board of Education. I do my homework, I am not quick to react, and I work hard to consider every angle of decisions. We need change. We need families to feel safe sending their kids to Colfax, and we need our kids to grow into well-rounded individuals.
• What do you believe to be the two biggest issues facing the school district?
1. Communication — There seems to be a disruption between the faculty and the school board. Although it is the administration’s right to filter through requests, it is not permissible to lie about them.
2. Student Numbers — To achieve this, we need to create a trusting environment that inspires pride and excitement within the community. Our activities and sports programs must thrive to build school spirit and success. We want surrounding towns to look at our school and think, “I want that for my kid!”
• How would you go about addressing those issues?
1. We need honest communication that is supported by accountability. Open and responsible conversations between staff, the community, and board members are essential. Our school staff should feel comfortable reporting any issue. Additionally, staff should not be limited to addressing concerns solely with their reporting supervisor, as it is clear that the current one-way communication approach is not effective.
2. To increase student numbers through improved programs, we must first address the need for better communication. Staff, community members, and students have long advocated for programs that foster personal and professional success. To meet their needs, we must provide the necessary support, resources, and opportunities. Expanding Career and Technical Education programs, such as those focused on mechanics and other essential trades, will help prepare students for real-world success. We must remove barriers to achievement, celebrate their accomplishments, and demonstrate our Viking Pride by guiding each student toward their fullest potential.
• How would you go about increasing transparency for the Colfax school district?
Transparency is essential for building trust and fostering community involvement. Many school districts already make school board packets and minutes available online and even live-stream their meetings. Implementing these practices in the Colfax School District would enhance transparency and encourage community engagement. Quite frankly, we are lagging behind by not posting our minutes on the school website. Considering that staff members do not have a Human Resources department to report to, there should be transparency throughout the entire chain of command. No more excuses. No more sweeping problems under the rug.
When I first joined the district, I was explicitly told not to attend school board meetings, as it might be considered offensive. However, when teachers and community members attend, it is usually because they care deeply about the district and want to be supportive. In my previous districts, board members welcomed my presence and frequently sought my opinions to gain different perspectives on various issues.
Transparency and open communication are crucial. Therefore, I propose that we make minutes accessible online and consider live-streaming our meetings. This would not only keep our community informed but also demonstrate our commitment to accountability and openness. After all, community engagement is vital, and those who care enough to attend our meetings are likely our biggest supporters.
• Anything else you would like voters to know?
I only want what is best for our kids. — Mrs. Schaffner.
