ISD #709 School Board Member District 4
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: Voting Local Matters: Why Vote for School Board | League of Women VotersIf 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!
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Jill Lofald
(NP)
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
If forced to cut the budget in the face of declining revenues, what would be your strategy? (500 characters)
How would you address any racial and economic disparities in our education system? (500 characters)
Please describe how you will engage teachers and families in your decision making process. (500 characters)
telephone
2183914696
Contact Phone
218-391-4696
My years as a teacher in the Duluth Schools provide a compassionate and practical lens, while my eight years on the school board offer the strategic and policy-making skills necessary for effective governance. The current educational outlook is marked by uncertainty at the federal and state levels. With funding debates, curriculum changes, and educational mandates, it is critical to have experienced leadership that can navigate these conditions. I bring an effective voice to the work of advocating with state and local legislators, building relationships and articulating the needs of our schools. I am one who understands the needs of our students, the challenges of our educators, and the fiscal responsibilities to our community.
Fostering student well-being and achievement, creating safe and inclusive learning environments, and strengthening community engagement. These areas are not separate goals, but rather interconnected pillars that together form the foundation of a successful and supportive school district. My top priorities are also our districts top priorities: Advancing Equity, Supporting Every Student and Improving Systems. Schools are built on partnerships: parents, businesses, and community organizations.
Communication & Education. I'd start by communicating the financial realities to all stakeholders—staff, students, families, and the wider community. Stakeholder Engagement: We would engage district bargaining units and stakeholder groups. This includes gathering feedback and collecting data from staff, students, and families. Collaborative Decision-Making: We'd form a team-based approach, working together to analyze data and explore all possible options.
Our strategy includes directing federal and state funding to high-need schools for tutors, staff, and resources. Our three Community Schools provide essential wrap-around services. We have also focused on culturally specific programs like Ojibwe and Spanish Immersion, strong early education, and recruiting more teachers of color. These efforts, combined with new initiatives like our reading program, form a comprehensive approach to meet every student's needs.
Engaging our teachers and families is about more than just a process—it's about building a partnership based on trust and respect. I believe a strong school community is built on a foundation of open hearts and open doors. Building a presence in our community is important to me. Connecting directly with our schools is also important. I encourage our families and staff to speak at our monthly listening sessions and join the many Advisory Committees. That's a place where your voice can be heard.
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