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.
Jayme Goetz
Age: 31
Occupation: FHSU math instructor
Incumbent: No
Read more biographic information here.
Do you have children or grandchildren who attend(ed) Hays USD 489 schools? Yes, one in USD 489 preschool and one at Roosevelt
If you had one thing you could change about the USD 489 school district, what would it be?
The transparency of the district. I have seen the strides our current board has been taking to have transparency with the community, but I would like to see more of it.
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 think the current school board is very attuned to the needs of the district. They have done well to pass the bond, improve the baseball field, and even get our students free breakfast. I would, however, like to see a little more cohesiveness between members and less animosity. I believe they all are well-intentioned but disagree on the finer things that help them achieve their goals.
What is your opinion of the Hays USD 489 administration?
This is a very broad question. There are many different levels of administration in education. Overall, I support the administration in their support of the staff and students.
What do you think the board’s role should be in the day-to-day operations of the district?
The board’s role is to oversee policy in the district. The day-to-day operations are left to the discretion of the professionals who were hired in those positions.
What role do you think the board should have moving forward with the bond issue projects?
This bond is to bring better facilities to Hays for our staff and students. These buildings are for what they need, not me. However, I do want to make sure that there is accountability behind these decisions as it is quite a bit of money being handled. Ensuring that the changes made are fiscally responsible and for the betterment of our students is my priority.
Have you received money or in-kind donations from individuals, businesses, groups or PACs outside of the school district?
No, I am self-funded.