The Hays Post sent questionnaires to all the candidates who are running for seats on the Hays USD 489 school board.
Candidates on the ballot include David Clingan, James Feyerherm, Jayme Goetz, Lori Hertel, Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth Ruder, Duff Watson, Dennis Wilkie and Derek Yarmer.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
To find your polling location, click here.
Duff Watson
Age: 60
Occupation: I.T. Director
Incumbent: No
Do you have children or grandchildren who attend(ed) Hays USD 489 schools?
I do not have any children or grandchildren attending the school.
Read more biographical information here.
If you had one thing you could change about the USD 489 school district, what would it be?
I believe the board needs to be more open to the public. The agenda needs to be published earlier and the people of the community need to be able to have time to discuss concerns with the board members.
Currently a person can voice their opinion for 3 minutes but has no interaction from board members.
What is your opinion of the current school board? Do you think you could compromise with the incumbents who will remain on the board?
I believe the current school board has some members who do not welcome public input and are afraid to have the necessary conversations with members of the public. I can work with anyone as long as respect is shown to everyone and all are allowed to bring topics in for discussion.
What is your opinion of the Hays USD 489 administration?
I am not familiar with the administration and have only heard comments from employees of 489 so I cannot comment at this time.
What do you think the board’s role should be in the day-to-day operations of the district?
The boards role is to set policy and then make sure the policies are being followed. They are also there to provide support to faculty, staff and students, to ensure they have what is needed to provide a quality education to the students. The day to day operation is better known by the faculty and staff that work in the buildings.
What role do you think the board should have moving forward with the bond issue projects?
The board needs to ensure that the money from the bond issue is used in a correct manner. It should not be used for frivolous items that do not affect the education of the students. I have heard different versions of plans for the new building and some of it sounds like it is not necessary and has added a greater cost to the project. The building should be made more for function and safety, with some thought to appearance, not the other way around.
Have you received money or in-kind donations from individuals, businesses, groups or PACs outside of the school district?
No.