Culbertson School Board Candidates Surveyed

There are three candidates for two open positions on the Culbertson School Board. The candidates are incumbents Wendy Becker and Christopher Petersen and newcomer Erin Rhodes. The election is set for Tuesday, May 5, from noon-9 p.m. in the school cafeteria. The deadline to file was February 9.

The candidates were given the following questions to help voters make their selections.

Why are you running for the school board and what are your top objectives?

Erin Rhodes: “ I am running for the school board because I believe there is an opportunity to strengthen communication and partnership between parents and our schools. As a parent, I have experienced moments of disconnect and I want to take a hands-on approach to helping bridge that gap. My top objectives are to promote meaningful parent involvement in their children’s education and to explore creative ways to attract and retain outstanding educators. This includes looking at ideas such as teacher housing incentives and the possibility of a four-day school week, similar to what neighboring communities have implemented successfully. Strong schools are built on strong relationships and I want to help foster those connections.”

Chris Petersen: “ I am running so I might have a say in my children’s education at a level which is afforded me by a local board position. My top objective includes ensuring all students are afforded the opportunity to an above average education, which would translate to a degree of success in today’s environment.”

Wendy Becker: “ Having been on the school board as a trustee and vice-chairman for the past three years, I have learned a lot about the business of running a school. There are many facets that intertwine with each other to keep a school running and that has been a great learning opportunity for me as well as relaying that information to the public. I also am interested because my children attend Culbertson school. My top objectives would be to continue to work the strategic planning vision that the community, school and board worked on together to create a better future for Culbertson School. I also want to continue to work with the administration and staff to help make Culbertson the best school around.”

How would you specifically support teachers and education support personnel?

Rhodes: “ I would support teachers and education support personnel by being an approachable, attentive and proactive advocate for their needs. I believe in listening first and working collaboratively to address concerns. I would encourage the development of a PTA to build community support around our staff and classrooms. I also hope to remain actively involved in our schools through volunteering and substitute teaching when possible. Our teachers and support staff are the backbone of our district and they deserve both practical support and community appreciation.”

Petersen: “ I believe I support our educators through my time and efforts placed into all board matters. I have a great deal of respect for all of our teachers. The challenges they face are not shrinking. The support personnel are second to none. They provide the services that allow our educators to focus on their tasks at hand.”

Becker: “I want to provide opportunities to support teachers and personnel in furthering their own education in their classrooms professionally. I want to make sure they have adequate resources, tools, materials and whatever other support they need to build their successful classrooms. I also would like to make sure that communication is always open and they are able to convey their needs, so they can be integrated with the districts capabilities, both financially and professionally so that they can succeed. Creating an environment to be heard and respected is vital for

positive morale.”

What is your view of the purpose of public education?

Rhodes: “ I believe the purpose of public education is to prepare the next generation not only academically, but as thoughtful, capable members of society. Education opens doors to opportunity, growth and advancement, but it also shapes character, responsibility and community values. Our schools should equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed while fostering a mindset of service, respect and engagement within their community. Public education plays a vital role in strengthening both individual futures and the future of society as a whole.”

Petersen: “From my vantage point I believe public education should be the gateway to greater opportunities within an individual’s future. You are afforded a currency but how you spend it is your choice.“ Becker: “ The mission statement of Culbertson School is ‘Culbertson Public Schools are committed to providing opportunities for students in a safe and productive environment, to achieve their personal best, become responsible and productive citizens, and embrace lifelong learning in an ever changing world.’ I view this as an excellent statement. I would only add that it public education should support an equal opportunity to learn, develop life and work skills and prepare them to positively contribute to their future communities. I believe that through classwork, extra-curricular activities, arts, athletics, technology and communication, public education can help build confidence and help students explore future careers. I also have faith that Culbertson Schools are striving to do just that.”

How will you build your relationship with school staff?

Rhodes: “ I will build relationships with school staff by maintaining an opendoor approach and prioritizing respectful, consistent communication. I believe in being present, available and willing to listen. By offering hands-on support where appropriate and working collaboratively to address challenges, I hope to build trust and mutual respect. Communication between educators, support staff, administration and parents must be clear and constructive and I would be committed to encouraging and supporting those conversations.”

Petersen: “As an individual board member I am available 24/7. I am willing to listen to any concerns or issues and respect the structures in place to ensure a fair and orderly outcome. Teamwork is what it takes to make this all possible.”

Becker: “I think that communication is the most important step in building relationships. I want to understand their profession and relay information on what we are and aren’t able to do as a trustee and find ways to bridge the gap. I also work in education, so I wholly support what they do and I continually reach out to other districts, universities and other means to provide a broad thought process to challenging topics and issues. I also think that being honest and acting with integrity with what we can do is essential to a relationship.”

What do you see as your role in the district?

Rhodes: “ I see my role as a liaison between the community and the school district. A school board member should listen carefully to parents, educators, and community members and help ensure their voices are thoughtfully considered in decision-making. My goal would be to support policies and initiatives that strengthen our schools while keeping the focus on what is best for students and the broader community we serve.”

Petersen: “ I see myself as a common denominator. A majority of people want similar outcomes but it is how we get there that is the challenging part.”

Becker: “When we are elected, we recite an oath to our office for acting as duties of the Culbertson School District. This states: ‘I do solemnly swear that I will support, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the state of Montana, and that I will discharge the duties of my office with fidelity.’ I want to continue to support the districts’ needs to be fiscally responsible, supportive of students and staff and to work on the betterment of our school. I have high expectations that all kids can succeed and I want that for Culbertson Schools. Each person has different needs, learning styles and character. It’s what makes us all unique. I also see my role in the district to continue to ask questions, think outside the box and seek enhancements to be part of the excellent learning culture that is provided now.”

Is there any other information you would like to share?

Rhodes: “ Although I am not originally from Culbertson, I grew up in a small community and wanted the same close-knit environment for my children. I have been grateful to serve this community as a volunteer EMT, coach and church teacher. Even in times of disagreement, I have always believed our school is filled with dedicated, caring educators who truly love and support our children. Culbertson is a proud and wonderful community and I am committed to working collaboratively to ensure our school continues to be a place where students thrive and families feel connected.”

Petersen: “I really just wanted to take a moment and say thank you to the Culbertson Community for their continued support of the school and all the activities. In a community our size it truly takes everyone.”

Becker: “ I see being on the school board at Culbertson as being part of my civic duty. I enjoy watching what all the classrooms are doing, anticipating how teams and individuals did in their extra-curricular activities and cheering them on. I think the faculty and staff are resilient and also want the best for their students. I believe Culbertson School has top-notch facilities and always looking to improve. I also think the school has been economical with their dealings and are striving to be better in communication with the public and provide family education activities.”