MARION INDEPENDENT: JILL HANSEN

I have been asked why I want to run for the Marion Independent School District Board and the answer is simple. Children are our greatest gift and responsibility in society.

I believe we are all responsible for the future generation. I believe we need to insure they will have the educational opportunities to help them succeed in life. I have three children, one who has graduated from Marion and two others still in the district. I have always taught my children to serve when and where you are able to be of service to others. I run to be an example to my children and to serve the students of MISD.

I believe that every decision a school board member makes should be made through the lens of what is best for the children. I also believe teachers are our best asset and need to be supported. Teachers need to be given the tools and education they need to help our children learn in the best possible environment. We are blessed with wonderful faculty and staff at MISD. I have experienced the depth of the staff's commitment to our students, first hand, as a parent in the district for 15 years and as a classroom volunteer at FMI for 5 years. I want to be a listening ear to the needs of our staff and be supportive of their efforts to achieve the goals set for our students. I wish to foster an environment where everyone is working toward the same goals and has involvement in the process.

I also believe in fiscal responsibility. I know difficult financial decisions have to be made when state mandates are not fully funded. I want to ensure financial decisions being made are guided by what will be in the best interest of students and what will cause the least harm if cuts are necessary. In addition, I believe a long range plan for our facilities needs to be established and communicated to the public.

I would come to the MISD Board with the willingness to have an open mind and a listening ear. Often the key to making the best decision is to listen first. Most importantly, I would come to the board as an advocate for the children of MISD.