I believe that public education is the cornerstone for democracy.
To me this means:
- That we have a responsibility to educate students, to create independent thinkers; so they can be successful in society, and become the leaders of tomorrow.
- We must teach them the skill sets to think outside the box and for themselves; so that they can evolve and learn, decipher information for fact and fiction, and make positive decisions.
- We must encourage one to search for “more” information, to ensure that every perspective is heard and brought to the table before making decisions.
- We all must seek to understand before we respond.
Leading is about listening more than we talk and establishing a shared commitment to do what is right. It is about what WE can do together for the benefit of kids/families/and our future. It is about respecting other perspectives and hearing what others contribute to the conversation, as it may bring new information to light. Finally, it is about working with each other, rather than against, and being united when decisions are made; trusting in each other and in the people that we hire.
I believe that all students have a right to a free and appropriate public education.
To me this means:
- Every student that wants to learn should feel welcome and safe in public schools.
- Every student should be able to be their authentic selves without trying to “fit a mold” or be someone different when they come to school.
- Public education is a fundamental right, which means all students should have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive.
Our goal should be to turn kids into the best versions of themselves. Beginning with the strategic plan and trickling down through each interaction with students, everyone should be able to see where they fit in our system. We must strive to create inclusive, supportive learning spaces where diversity is celebrated, and every student can reach their full potential. Every student should feel valued, included and known.
I believe we have to be financially responsible with taxpayers’ dollars.
To me this means:
- Financial responsibility in public education is about transparency and accountability.
- We must live within our means. We cannot deficit spend while at the same time we need to invest into our people and facilities.
- We have and want to keep a reputation of spending dollars wisely and conservatively. We need to hold and protect that reputation by aligning spending to our communicated priorities.
- District spending should reflect the community’s strategic plan, district policy, and state statute. ISD 728 should remain a district people want to come to and one that leads through innovation and opportunity.
Being a steward of taxpayer dollars requires thoughtful, strategic decisions that balance the needs of today with the demands of tomorrow. We must prioritize investments that yield the greatest benefits for students and the community, without compromising our financial integrity.
: Priorities
Shane Steinbrecher for ISD 728 School Board 