JI: Why are you running for a school board position? What expertise, work experience or talents could you bring to the board?

KB: My parents are teachers, so I’ve been surrounded by education and school politics all my life. I have a vested interest in my children's education and want to make sure that Jordan Public Schools continues to be great. I think that my upbringing and experience working in Jordan schools through MRVSEC makes me a great candidate. My vast knowledge of special education will help me to advocate for those students and families in Jordan.

JI: Why do you think that proposed referendums have failed in each of the past two years? Do you see a referendum passing during the next four years, or should the district rely on grants, increased tax levies or other revenue sources?

KB: I think the first referendum failed because there wasn’t much information or awareness about the referendum. The second time, having it during a major election year may have made a difference.
I would hope that a referendum might be passed in the next four years, if we need it. It is important for our community to get better educated in why districts ask for referendums and that they are in the interest of our kids.

JI: If you had to cut from the school district's budget, for what would you decrease funding?

KB: That’s not a question that’s easily answered. I would hope that cuts would never have to be made, but there are many factors that play into the budget and most are out of the control of the school board or superintendent. Before committing to any cuts, I would need to know all the facts and see the budget. I know that I will always keep our students in mind first when any decisions are made.



JI: With the growing number of students in the Jordan district, how do you feel the district and school board should plan for expansion?



KB: Working for MRVSEC, I observed in many classrooms, and many are crowded, sometimes to the point where it was hard for me to observe. I am also aware of some of the classrooms and setups that the special education department has and the growing numbers of students receiving special education services. I would like to make sure that this population of staff and students does not get overlooked or pushed into cramped spaces.

JI: How would you rate the school district's and school board's communication with the public? What do you think works, and what would you like to see improved?

KB: I think that the current school board has been making some great changes toward better communication with the public. I think there is always room for improvement. I think that it would be nice to have information put in the Jordan Independent regularly and maybe some sort of mailing.

JI: What do you see as the other major issues facing the district?

KB: I would like to make sure that the school board continues to do the best they can for students receiving special services. I would also like to make sure that the district is doing all that they can to ensure all students have options for postsecondary education.