Jim is running for the St. Joseph Grade School Board.
What motivated you to run for school board?
I am Jim O’Brien and I have lived in Saint Joseph for over 20 years. I enjoy giving back to the community. I’ve held events at the library and other venues encouraging literacy and participation but was looking for something more structured. I knew there were going to be openings on the school board so I started attending meetings in October. I found the current board to be committed and conscientious and believe, together, we can further serve the needs of the community.
What are your short term goals for the district?
Both short term and long term goals involve increasing the student population at Saint Joseph CCSD #169. Short term actions could be to further promote the schools. There are kids who live in the district who don’t attend the grade or middle school. Some are home-schooled, some are attending private schools. I want to help get the message out that we have great schools right here.
What are your long term goals?
Long term solutions to the same problem involve growing the village and encouraging more families to move here. Much of this hinges on the proposed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district. A new subdivision would be welcomed from a student census perspective, but the potential for lost revenue to the schools is an equal concern.
Where would you like to see the district in ten years?
I would like to see the district thriving with upgraded facilities at both schools. Some of this work is already underway. I would love to help the school board review (or develop) a long term plan for the facilities.
What Is one thing you would change about the schools in St. Joseph?
I think the three districts, PVO, CCSD #169, and SJO HS do a commendable job of coordinating services but if I could change one thing, it would be to have a single district for the students and alleviate a little bit of the tax burden on residents.
What are the most pressing issues facing the district?
I think the most pressing issue right now will be navigating the revenue changes if the TIF is approved by the village board. Should it be approved, we obviously wouldn’t see student populations increase on day one.
What is the best thing about the schools in St. Joseph?
Obviously, the community of St. Joseph is number one. Additionally, I started attending the school board (technically Board of Education or BOE) meetings in October before I decided to run. I think the level of cooperation, concern, compassion, and leadership shown by the board and Superintendent is remarkable.
Why should people vote for you?
My daughter was a proud Panther and graduated a Spartan in 2012. I have been a volunteer for events at the Grade School involving literature and the annual Immigration Day. As an engaged parent and community member, I want to be a voice for students, parents, and teachers ensuring their concerns and needs are addressed.I understand that, as a school board member, I would have a role in shaping the policies and funding that affect students, teachers, and our district as a whole and I would not take that responsibility lightly.
How will you make sure you work for the public and are accessible to your constituents?
All school board meetings are open to the public. Additionally, the board member’s contact information is available on the district website so, should I be elected, I can be easily reached there. I would gladly meet with anyone who has an issue but could not attend a board meeting, provided we followed the parameters of the and stay in compliance with the Open Meetings Act and any other regulations or standards.
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