ISD #284 School Board Member Choose 3
School board members oversee the care, management, and control of schools. This includes hiring, firing, and overseeing superintendents, who manage the day-to-day affairs of the district. They also set levies to fund the district and create school policies.Learn more here: https://www.lwv.org/blog/voting-local-matters-why-vote-school-boardA candidate forum for this race is available here.If your candidate didn’t fill in the guide below, visit the Secretary of State’s Candidate Filing site to find contact info. If you reach out, ask candidates to complete their Vote411 Voters Guide from the LWVMN!
Biographical Information
telephone
9402102927
Contact Phone
9402102927
Facebook (Full URL)
http://Facebook.com/lauraforwayzata
Campaign Email
lauraforwayzata@gmail.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
I am a mom of three young children in Wayzata schools, an attorney, a leader, and an advocate. I will bring a common-sense, practical approach, and always put students first. My perspective will be shaped by data, and feedback from the community. I am a Minnesota native having graduated from Mounds View High School, then went to the University of Minnesota, in Minneapolis. After attending law school in Texas, I came back to Minnesota (specifically the Wayzata district) so that my own children could attend school here. I have a history of advocating for people through church mission trips in high school, then a city prosecutor in Texas. After that, I spent a decade advocating for animals. Now, I feel called to advocate for kids here.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
My priorities would be making sure that every child has the tools needed to achieve academic excellence, regardless of their background; keeping schools safe by having consistent, transparent disciplinary processes; and responsible and transparent budgeting, focused on classroom instruction.
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
My strategy would be to make sure that we do not cut from direct classroom instruction. I would pause lower-impact pilots; consolidate where possible; and expand energy savings. I would keep safety measures fully funded always; and consider a community budget advisory group. Transparency is important when budgeting, and it increases the community's trust in the board. I would lobby on a local, state, and federal money for an increase in funds to cover the gap.
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
To address any disparities, all students need access to strong academic foundations, supportive teachers, and safe schools. I support using data to identify achievement gaps, then providing targeted interventions like tutoring, mentorship, and after-school support. I think partnering with parents, and transparent communication, will also help to bridge the gap for struggling students.
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
As a board member, teachers and families will be an intricate part of any decision making process. It is important to create regular opportunities for community member to be heard. I would actively seek out teacher input before making any decisions effecting their support system. Parents should feel welcomed and heard, when it comes to any decisions that affect their children. Open communication will help us collaborate, and make the decisions that will drive improvement and students' success.
Biographical Information
Contact Phone
952 905 9899
Facebook (Full URL)
http://www.facebook.com/JulieJosephForWSB
Campaign Email
juliejoseph.theresa@gmail.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
As the daughter of educators, a proud Wayzata parent, and a community volunteer, I know firsthand the power of education to shape lives. For over a decade, I’ve taught at my local church and served as a parent volunteer in our schools—experiences that deepened my understanding of students’ needs, the dedication of teachers, and the importance of partnering with families. Professionally, I bring 15+ years of leadership managing large budgets, building inclusive teams, and driving innovation—skills that translate directly to strong governance and fiscal responsibility. I bring the heart of a parent and the discipline of a proven leader, ready to serve with integrity, strengthen trust, and keep a relentless focus on every student.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
My vision is S.A.F.E.—Students First, Advancing Teachers, Fostering Equity & Opportunity, and Engaging Community & Stewardship. That means protecting student safety, well-being, and growth; supporting and equipping educators to inspire every learner; and closing gaps so every child has the resources to succeed. These priorities reflect my commitment to keep students at the heart, empower teachers, and lead with transparency and responsibility.
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
If tough choices are needed, I’ll protect what matters most—our students and teachers. With extensive experience in managing budgets and optimizing resources, I know how to find efficiencies in operations while safeguarding the classroom experience. I’ll also advocate at the right levels to secure the funding our schools deserve. For me, fiscal responsibility means ensuring every dollar reflects our shared commitment to learning, safety, and opportunity for every child.
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
Wayzata is a large and diverse district where racial and economic disparities can create real barriers. Through years of teaching at our church and volunteering in our schools, I’ve seen both the promise of opportunity and the weight of inequity. Every student deserves the chance to rise. I’ll work to close gaps by expanding access to advanced courses, strengthening support services, and equipping teachers so every child has the resources and opportunities to succeed.
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
I believe teachers and families are essential partners in shaping the future of our schools. Their voices must be heard and valued in every major decision. On the board, I’ll advocate for open dialogue, school visits, and feedback early in the process. By working side by side with those closest to our students, we can shape policies that reflect classroom realities, honor family voices, and strengthen trust across our community.
Biographical Information
telephone
6127041956
Contact Phone
6127041956
Facebook (Full URL)
http://www.facebook.com/heidiforwayzata
Campaign Email
heidiforwayzata@gmail.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
As the incumbent, I know that my skill set is still of great use to our district. I lead with a balanced and experienced public health mindset that allows me to bring a strong understanding of systems. This is a strategically important and critical role for our school community. I’ve leaned into our district in meaningful ways - understanding the intersection between our district and the City, State, and Federal systems, developed a strong public education and legislative professional network, and worked closely with admin, principals, teachers, and parents. I’ve grown an even greater love and passion than I had 4 years ago. As a proud alumn and mom of three in WPS, every decision impacts my family as much as it impacts yours.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
(1)Comprehensive and holistic safety, (2) academic, & (3) operational excellence. Teaching&learning are the main events! Every student, early learning to transition, must be able to access quality academics that opens doors. When resources are used in smart ways, it brings class sizes down, allows for building more spaces, and brings the right people to the right roles to drive academic excellence. And, to make it possible, students and staff should be physically/emotionally/academically safe.
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
Strategic planning has put the district in a much stronger state than it was 4 years ago. However, with a potential $2B deficit in the biennium, we may be subject to cuts. To maintain core priorities for students, I’d lean into the strategic roadmap. Since continuity is critical to student success, I would work to keep cuts away from the classroom - including instruction and student supports. The best pathway with the best chance is to maintain WPS's fiscally responsible planning and spending.
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
These disparities are persistent and impactful. I am committed to long-term solutions that address the root of the barriers that lead to disparities. I start with the data to properly identify issues so that solutions are targeted. And, putting the data into the context of real-life is how to improve in a meaningful way. Growing community partnerships, investing in pertinent training for staff, harnessing the parent:school partnership, and equitable resourcing is just a start on my approach.
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
Conversations are where it starts. From there, I see engagement as an ongoing partnership that needs to be fostered by being built into systems and structures district-wide and at all levels. I will continue doing this long-term work by creating transparent and inclusive conditions, continuing to ask teachers and families what types of engagement are meaningful to them, staying active in our school community, and utilizing relevant data to make sure we’re moving in the right direction.
Biographical Information
telephone
9526984466
Facebook (Full URL)
http://www.facebook.com/VoteKateKnight/
Campaign Email
kateknight4education@gmail.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
I am a proud parent of four Wayzata-educated children and a two-term board member with Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners, bringing service and insight into our community’s families. With 15 years as a senior executive at a Fortune 50 company leading 150+ person teams, I understand governance, fiscal stewardship, and collaboration. Rooted in a student-centered philosophy shaped by my family and education, I emphasize transparency, balanced solutions, and data-driven decisions. My experience in complex organizations and collaborative leadership equips me to help Wayzata Schools manage growth, address budget pressures, and advance academic excellence for over 13,000 students.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
My top priorities are advancing academic excellence and student well-being, ensuring effective governance with fiscal responsibility, and fostering strong collaboration with the community. I will focus on supporting student-centered learning, managing resources wisely amid budget pressures, and maintaining open partnerships with families, staff, and leaders to align efforts and drive success for all Wayzata students.
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
When faced with budget cuts, I would prioritize preserving strategic plan priorities focused on academic excellence. I’d gather input from administration, staff, and families to understand impacts and perspectives. I’d evaluate short- and long-term consequences and assess impact levels. Then, I’d present an objective data-driven list for discussion and consensus, ensuring decisions balance priorities and minimize negative effects while supporting our mission.
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
I would start by gathering input and analyzing data to understand racial and economic disparities. From there, I’d prioritize actions that best promote academic excellence and belonging for all students. My focus would be on sound solutions, collaboration, and continuous evaluation—keeping standards high while directing resources where they are needed most to ensure opportunities for all across the district.
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
I use data and input from ongoing conversations with teachers and families. I balance listening with analytics to discern if issues are persistent or temporary. I commit to being accessible, regularly seeking input and questions from all stakeholders. By leading with curiosity and a balanced perspective, I ensure decisions reflect diverse voices and objective insights, fostering trust and collaboration in our shared goal of student success.
Biographical Information
Contact Phone
608-213-3969
Facebook (Full URL)
http://Facebook.com/alicia.liddle.for.wayzata.school.board
Campaign Email
AliciaLiddleforWayzataSB@gmail.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
I believe I’m the best candidate for this position because I bring a unique and needed perspective to the board. As a school-based occupational therapist I understand the complexities of special education. As a parent to three school-aged children, I appreciate the intricate balance of meeting individual student needs while also fostering resilience. My deep involvement in our school district over the last decade - spending dedicated time with students, staff and leadership - gives me firsthand insight into our strengths and challenges. My life experiences and knowledge fill a current gap on the Wayzata School Board, and I’m committed to helping guide thoughtful, student-centered decisions that reflect our community’s values and needs.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
Technology Use and Safety-Limiting use of personal devices to facilitate academic and social engagement. Utilizing school-issued devices to supplement multimodal learning.
Equity and Achievement-Early intervention to support student needs while fostering inherent strengths and values. Embracing diversity while building collaboration skills.
Community Engagement-Collaboration with our community through creative and accessible formats. Spending intentional time with students, educators and parents
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
I would prioritize minimizing impact on students and educational staff by protecting classroom instruction, essential services and learning resources. I would seek efficiencies elsewhere, engage the community in transparent decision-making and actively advocate for increased state funding to ensure long-term sustainability and equity in education.
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
Wayzata Public Schools serve eight communities and over 13,000 students, so as a school board member it is imperative to recognize and address racial and economic disparities. I will promote equitable funding, inclusive curriculum and access to support services for all students. I will also advocate for policies that close opportunity gaps and ensure all students feel seen, safe and valued. Additionally, I'll ensure partnership with families and connecting them with necessary community resources
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
I will advocate for facilitating creative strategies to engage teachers and families in the decision-making process. Life is busy so communication should be accessible! The Inside Wayzata Podcast recently launched and the opportunities for future conversations with students, staff and families are endless. Increasing student engagement during school board meetings, hosting teacher advisory councils and family forums are other opportunities I would like to explore.
Biographical Information
Facebook (Full URL)
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069997994691
Campaign Email
sohoniforschoolboard@gmail.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
My experience as a current school board member, two years as chair, and deep commitment to our students makes me the best candidate for this position. In my 4 years on the board, I have understood the challenges we face. From funding, class sizes, achievement gaps, to classroom space, I know there is more to be done. I believe in working with the community in transparent decision-making, the value of listening sessions, and working collaboratively with educators and Administration to find common ground, and solutions. My experience on other education boards has helped me with the skills of advocacy, and fiscal management, which has enhanced my contributions on the school board. My focus is always on what’s best for student outcomes.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
My top three priorities will be manageable class sizes, fiscal responsibility, and reducing achievement gaps. Reduced funding in hiring teachers, and reduced classroom space from increased enrollment have resulted in bigger classes, which negatively impacts student learning. I will make tough decisions about funding, and wise use of local resources while investing in teachers and staff. I will work on Wayzata’s Equity Commitment to close achievement gaps resulting from inequities in our system.
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
I will prioritize student learning, and classroom instruction, through a transparent process with administrators, educators, families, and the community. Non-classroom expenses will be managed efficiently, and cuts will be made equitably to safeguard vulnerable learners. I will strongly rely on existing data in analyzing possible strategic solutions. Once stability is reached, I will develop long-term strategies to mitigate the risk of declining revenues, and strengthen community partnerships.
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
I would support equitable funding, targeting reading and math interventions, and wider access to AP classes to students who would otherwise not have the opportunity. Research has shown that students do well when they have a sense of belonging, which can be addressed by manageable class sizes, and culturally responsive practices in teaching. Budgets are crucial to a school district, and staffing and policies should take into consideration that every child be given the opportunity to succeed.
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
Listening to constituents is a top priority. There are multiple ways to engage them. As board chair, I have proposed listening sessions with educators and families to ensure their voices are heard. Collaborating with the PTA/PTO groups will help me make sound decisions to ensure student success. The district’s policies must reflect input from those who know the students best – teachers and the families. Trust grows with feedback, guiding choices for student success, and keeping schools strong.