School Board Candidates Share Their Top Concerns

In the upcoming election for the Thompson School District Board of Education, candidates are highlighting different issues they believe are crucial for the district.

Key Issues

Declining Student Numbers

• A major concern is the drop in student numbers, which puts pressure on the district to maintain quality education with fewer resources.
• This problem is worsened by possible cuts in federal funding.

Funding and Infrastructure

• Some candidates believe the biggest problem is lack of funding, leading to:
• Old buildings
• Difficulty retaining good teachers
• Less money for activities
• One candidate suggests:
• Using a bond measure to get $99 million for repairs and upgrades without raising property taxes.
• Making the central office more efficient to save money for classrooms.

Teacher Retention and Quality

• Another candidate focuses on keeping good teachers, arguing that without great educators, other goals like improving reading and mental health won't be achieved.
• Their proposals include:
• Paying teachers more
• Providing better training
• Ensuring teachers feel valued

Student Performance

• One candidate believes the main issue is students not doing well in school.
• Their solutions include:
• Banning cell phones
• Bringing back old teaching methods
• Setting high standards
• Implementing clear ways to measure progress and hold the school accountable.

Election Day

• November 4, 2025
• Voters will decide who they think can best address these issues.