Meet the candidates: Lee Fellers

1. Why should voters support you Sept. 8?

My first priority is Red Oak’s students. Everything I do as a board member is focused on their education and preparation for their future. I am an experienced and dedicated board member and president, serving for over 8 years. My daughters attended and graduated from Red Oak, so my viewpoint is from more than just as a board member. I have a strong understanding of school finance which is helpful when determining courses of action. As a forward-thinking person, in a forward-thinking board, I can identify opportunities that go beyond shorter term needs.

2. How would you describe the current status of the Red Oak School District?

The Red Oak School District is poised for success. We have a committed staff. We are sound financially. Indications from last year suggest that academics are trending up and we have had lots of success in our extra-curricular activities. We will continue to look for improvements. Programs are in place that aid in identifying the needs of our students and determining pathways to continue their success. Superintendent Tom Messinger, the district’s new leader, brings fresh perspectives, ideas and approaches that lend well with what we want and need to accomplish.

3. What goals and objectives would you have for the school district if you are elected to the Red Oak School Board?

— Increase rigor. The district needs to ensure our students are well equipped and prepared for their future. Whether they move on to college or enter the workforce immediately, they must be able to meet the requirements of their next step in life.

— Infuse technology into our curriculum. The opportunities to enhance the educational experience are vast.

— Align our curriculum and programming. Ensure transitions from grade to grade are seamless and educational growth is a constant.

— TigerVision. This is important to the long-term success of our district.

4. How would you propose the school district proceed with the Tigervision project? Obviously, I believe that the project should continue as planned. The amount needed for the Phase 1 of the project (high school to the new structure; middle school to the existing high school) is primarily funded with Sales Tax (SAVE Fund) and the existing PPEL funding source. Both of these taxes have been in place for several years – so there is no tax increase related to Phase 1. Phase 2 would require a vote for new property taxes, but would complete the vision of operating with only two campuses. This would make our district more nimble and efficient for the future.

5. With declining enrollment and marginal increases in state revenue, how can the district best meet the changing needs of students today?

We have to reduce the stress these issues place on the general fund. Completing TigerVision will be a major step in offsetting their impact. Transportation costs, utilities, certain administrative and general operating costs will be decreased by reducing the number of education centers we operate. We will also find creative ways to share staff. The efficiencies we gain will allow us to stay at the forefront of educational needs.

We strive to be the district of choice in southwest Iowa. Providing a top-notch educational product is necessary to be that district. We want families to come here for the educational experience Red Oak can provide.