Q&A with Linn-Mar School Board candidate Barry L. Buchholz

Barry L. Buchholz is running for the Linn-Mar School Board. He is an incumbent. Here are his answers to a survey we sent to all of the candidates.

Occupation and Employer: Financial Advisor, Buchholz Financial Services

How and who should determine curriculum?

The Superintendent along with the curriculum directors, that group works through and selects and then brings the curriculum to the Board of directors.

Why do you want to serve on the school board? What relevant experience do you have?

I have been on the board for 12 years, I feel committed to public education, I feel public education is the backbone of our country. Linn Mar is a very good school district and an important part of our community.

How would you describe your attendance at past school board meetings?

I missed 1 board meeting in the last 4 years

Are there any curriculum concerns you have with the district? Why? How should the school board address these issues?

The Linn Mar curriculum at Linn Mar is very solid and we are constantly working to improve the learning capability of all students.

If you were required to cut the district's budget, what areas would you look to for savings and why?

This is a very hard question, 85% of our budget is Staffing in the Linn Mar district. We did a budget cut this last year, we increased the class sizes a bit but are still under our goal.

What level of control do you think school boards should have?

The board of directors sets policy and assists the Superintendent in all aspects of the board.

I feel Linn Mar has a very good cabinet/Leadership team and our role is to support.

If the school district had additional funds available, what should they be allocated to? Why?

I feel the quality of our teachers is one of the most important aspects of Linn Mar. All students need to be served and if at all possible increasing compensation would be very important.

What will you do to be responsive to parents, teachers and district staff? What types of communication should the public expect from you?

I am always approachable. I personally would rather meet face to face or by phone, but I am happy to respond to emails.