Voters at area school districts will make choices on school board members but not on mill levies May 8.
At Boulder Elementary, Eric Rykal, Carrie Harris and Niki Conroy are on the ballot competing for two seats. In statements provided to the Monitor, the candidates staked out some differing positions.
Harris, who has been on the board for seven years, says she is proud of the accomplishments during her tenure. She points to her leadership on budget finance and contract negotiations that has helped provide infrastructure improvements along with modest raises for staff.
“Due to the commitment, professionalism, and teamwork between BES staff and the Board few issues or problems rise to the level of needing board intervention,” said Harris.
Rykal, the other incumbent, points to advances in school facilities, internet technology, a new football program and a needs assessment that will guide future planning.
“In the time I have been on the board, I have been part of many great changes for the Boulder Elementary School,” he said.
Niki Conroy, a former paraprofessional and secretary at the school, is appealing to voters from a different perspective. She says changes are needed, specifically on support for gifted and talented students, the handling of bullying, school security and the use of technology in the classrooms.
“In every public organization it is a necessity to have periodic changes in leadership. This is extremely important to ensure that we do not linger on old ideas and become complacent,” said Conroy.
The Boulder elementary district is not running a mill levy.
Jefferson High will not be holding an election since it is not asking for a mill levy and has only the same number of candidates as vacancies. Kevin Harris filed for the at-large vacancy previously held by Pat Lewis and Cami Robson filed for the Clancy seat held by Terry Street. Since they are unopposed, they will become board members by acclamation.
No election is set for Basin School, either.
Clancy is asking voters to choose between Marissa Ostby and Clint R. Van Blaricom for the single open seat there. No mill levy is requested. Polls for that election will be open at the school and at the Jefferson City Community Center.
Marta Bertoglio, Stephanie Boysen and Dennis Spencer are all vying for two seats on the Montana City School Board. Each is for a three year term. No levy is on that ballot.
The Montana City School election is by mail ballot only, but the polls will be open for the elections for Clancy School and Boulder Elementary.
