Elk Mound school board candidate: Gary Bodenburg
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GARY BODENBERG
ELK MOUND — Incumbent Gary Bodenburg will be one of four candidates for two positions on the Elk Mound Board of Education in the April 6 election.
Bodenburg will be on the ballot with incumbent Mark Oas and challengers Mark Levra and Michael Jenson Jr.
Bodenburg and his wife, Peggy, have five children who have graduated from Elk Mound High School. Two of their grandchildren currently attend Mound View Elementary.
Recently retired, Bodenburg is a graduate of Phillips High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from UW-Eau Claire.
Here are Bodenburg’s answers to a candidate questionnaire sent out by the Colfax Messenger:
Why did you decide to run for a position on the Elk Mound Board of Education?
I want to do my part in preserving the excellent quality of education in the Elk Mound School District. I have years of experience working with all members of our community. Being a board member is another way I can contribute to the growth, safety and well being of the district’s students.Volunteering and serving our community is something I feel strongly about and strive to do through example.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for school districts over the past year. What challenges related to COVID-19 do you anticipate will be facing the school district in the years to come?
Effects of Covid-19 may challenge us in years to come such as the fall-off in student retention and decreased test scores for those who struggle to learn from home or due to decreased learning time. Also, the district must be cognizant of at-risk children becoming disengaged. We must step up to help them get back on track. We are fortunate that our district has been able to provide full-time, in-person learning as it is crucial for students’ social, emotional and psychological well-being.
What do you believe to be the biggest issues (in addition to COVID) facing the Elk Mound school district?
It is of utmost importance to provide a safe and secure learning and work environment for students, teachers and staff in our district. The district has implemented secure entries at all buildings and does ALICE training with students and staff on a regular basis during the school year. Safety measures are monitored and updated on an ongoing basis.
Why are you the best candidate for the Board of Eduction?
I feel I am a good listener and work well with people. As an incumbent, I have the background and experience of being a board member. Currently, I serve as Board Treasurer and Legislative Representative, updating the members monthly as to State legislative issues that affect education.
I am the Board Delegate at the annual State School Board Delegate Assembly representing our district in voting on educational issues that would affect our schools at the legislative level. I also serve on the Policy and Compensation committees, which advise the board on those matters.
Anything else you would like voters to know?
I have always been and continue to be proud and impressed with our teachers, support staff and administrators. This past year they have surpassed all expectations by giving our students an amazing education despite all the hurdles and struggles they faced personally and professionally with the rigid Covid restrictions. Their hard work has not gone unnoticed by the Board, Administration and community. I want to thank the Elk Mound community for their continued support for all improvements and advancements that benefit the education of our children. That is why Elk Mound is a great place to live — Where Kids Come First.
