LISBON — There are two candidates running for the Hamilton School Board’s Lisbon seat. Incumbent Dawn Van Aacken is challenged by Andrew Rupert.
This race is on the ballot for all residents in the boundaries of the Hamilton School District, not just those in Lisbon.
The Freeman asked both candidates questions ahead of the April 2 election.
Here are their responses:
Freeman: Why are you running for this position?
Van Aacken: I am running for reelection because of my lifelong commitment to children and their education. Over the years, I have gained valuable experience as a school board member, and I am deeply passionate about ensuring that every child receives a quality education. I believe that my dedication, determination, openness, and integrity have allowed me to effectively meet the needs of the district, and I am committed to continuing this work to benefit our students and community.
Rupert: I graduated from Sussex Hamilton in ’07 and grew up in Lisbon most of my childhood. I loved this area and the district so much; I bought a home in the same subdivision I grew up in. I have 4 children in the district and want them to learn and grow from the same great experience I had. My wife and I adopted 2 children out of foster care; our love & passion is seeing kids thrive in a healthy environment.
Freeman: What is the most pressing issue facing this school district?
Van Aacken: Providing a top-quality education while being responsible stewards of our finances is at the core of our mission. The combination of state funding challenges and inflationary pressures poses a significant financial impact on our district. To address this, I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow board members, administrators, and community stakeholders to identify innovative solutions. We need to prioritize budget allocations that directly impact on the classroom experience, ensuring that teachers have the resources they need for effective instruction. Simultaneously, we will explore opportunities for cost savings and efficiency without compromising the quality of education.
Rupert: Chronic absenteeism numbers are continuing to rise over the past 3 years.
Letting the government decide what’s best for our children rather than us parents.
The politicization of education. Keeping politics out of schools, focusing more on education.
Keeping "woke indoctrination" out of our district. These things below should not be taught by our teachers in our district.
Teaching our children about LGBTQ, sexuality, and gender identity.
Teaching that racism and white supremacy is what is pulling this country apart and bringing inequality.
Freeman: Districts are continuing to face financial challenges and difficult decisions. How would you deal with this?
Van Aacken: The strategic plan is not only a visionary document but also a practical tool for informed budget decisions. As we navigate the ongoing financial challenges, the strategic plan will be integral in shaping our budgetary priorities. By aligning the budget with the goals outlined in the plan, we can ensure that our budget reflects a strategic investment in initiatives that contribute directly to the overall quality of education.
Rupert: Referendums are a big way to get the taxpayers to help fund the school’s immediate needs. As Sussex Hamilton continues to grow, we need to work as a group and tackle the immediate needs that face each one of our 8 schools. I realize that 81% of local funding comes from property taxes. But we need to get creative without asking the taxpayers for millions of dollars. I believe we could look at increasing tuition, transportation, lunches, district activities, textbook revenue, and summer school classes.
Freeman: Parents are very passionate about their children’s education. What are ways you make parents feel heard but still do what’s best for the district?
Van Aacken: I appreciate parental and community input. Various avenues are provided for their feedback. Parents and community members can share thoughts at the start of board meetings. Surveys are employed to gather information, ensuring a broad perspective. Public participation is encouraged on committees like the strategic plan and facilities advisory committee. I am also available for individual discussions, ensuring an open and accessible dialogue with community members.
Rupert: During the pandemic, our district was leaning heavily on the government for direction. I believe parents should be heavily involved when it comes to their children’s education. Sending out surveys to the district and listening to the parent’s opinions on serious issues. Part of this involves the parent’s participation and engagement with the school and their children.
Freeman: There continues to be a division in local government and school boards. How do you work with others you don’t necessarily agree with?
Van Aacken: Hamilton, encompassing Lisbon, Menomonee Falls, Sussex, Lannon, Butler, and Pewaukee, fosters open communication. Regular meetings with board members from all municipalities serve as forums for sharing information. These gatherings promote a comprehensive understanding of diverse perspectives, ensuring everyone’s needs are considered. Open lines of communication are vital to collaborative decision-making, fostering a sense of unity across the entire community.
Rupert: The division comes when the government would like to have their hand in everything and everyone’s pocket. The University of Nebraska Law said the following below about working well with others and I couldn’t agree more.
Being able to interact effectively, cooperate, collaborate, and manage conflicts with other people to get things done.
Understanding the cultural background of the people with whom you interact.
Making decisions solo and jointly. Expressing opinions and respecting different ones.
Being flexible. "Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much." — Helen Keller
Read more of ourÌý2024 spring election previews here.
