Since current North School District Board president Nancy Moffatt is not seeking re-election, that means two newcomers will be facing off for the District 4 seat in the Nov. 7 general election.

Beverly Godfrey is an NK Education Association representative and an Olympic representative. Her professional experience includes being a classroom teacher for grades K-4, specialist (P.E. and reading), district science coordinator, and student-teacher mentor. Her accolades include NK Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 2019, Regional Elementary Science Teacher in 1994 and Governor’s Award for Community Service in 1985. She graduated from Olympic College then earned her bachelor’s in Elementary Education from the University of Washington.

Terri Schumacher is owner and founder of The Head Hunter Salon in Poulsbo since 1999. After high school, she went to Lee Cosmetology School. Her community service includes: past president of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association; former committee chair of Seattle Jaycees and Seattle Seafair Ambassador Program; and former youth advisor for the DeMolay Sweetheart Program.

Both candidates were asked: What are the five biggest issues and what is your stance on them?

Godfrey: Safety — My paramount concern is your child’s safety at school. Our elementary schools have made many improvements to keep unwanted visitors away. North Kitsap High School is working on plans to secure the expansive campus. When I’m elected, I will push for this to be done quickly and efficiently.

Communication — Every child has a unique set of strengths. Let’s work together to find ways to enhance and develop those skills. There are several policies already adopted in NK that express a desire for “family involvement.” Policy 4129p outlines six ways to help parents participate in their child’s formal education. We need to highlight and use these at every grade level. Certified staff are available for a half hour before or after school. See policy 4200. I encourage families to make an appointment to have conversations with teachers throughout the school year.

Low test scores — Test scores are too low. One way to help fill the gap is to offer weeklong academic summer camps. Our elementary reading program includes both science and history lessons. It would be best if teachers were encouraged to focus mainly on the academic lessons during the limited time they have with children.

Consistent Finances — Budget concerns hinder the ability to offer summer school classes, repair buildings and even pay staff. Fortunately, our community has passed a four-year levy. The temporary “COVID” funds were spent well but now we need to be conservative about how we balance the funds that are left.

Class configuration — As mental health issues continue to plague our society, we need to give children the attention they need from caring adults. I taught in unique situations; my students stayed with me for two years, and my class size was under 22 kids. This made a huge difference in our relationship. No interventionists were needed because we cared for each other like a loving family. Each child deserves to have the teacher’s time and attention whenever they need a sympathetic ear or further explanation of a complex concept. Families need to know they are a respected and valued partner at school.

Schumacher: Ensuring a top-tier education for each student stands as a paramount mission. Our approach should involve creating opportunities and allocating resources with precision to meet each student’s unique needs. This encompasses providing essential assistance for struggling students and offering enriching experiences for those excelling academically, all while remaining cognizant of the needs of students in the middle of the academic spectrum.

Effective management of our school district’s financial resources is of great importance. It’s imperative to adopt a prudent strategy that involves a thorough examination of research and reliable data before making investments in instructional materials, equipment, building infrastructure or property. This careful consideration ensures that each allocation aligns with the overarching goal of improving educational outcomes.

Establishing a cohesive educational environment hinges on fostering robust communication and forming meaningful partnerships with stakeholders. Collaborating with all stakeholders contributes to the development of decision-making systems that are fair, consistent and transparent across the school district. Such collaborative efforts cultivate inclusivity and trust, essential for the success and advancement of our educational initiatives.

Creating a safe and secure environment for our students is a primary objective. This necessitates the diligent implementation and support of programs that tangibly improve both physical and mental well-being. Central to this endeavor is the cultivation of an inclusive culture that vehemently opposes all forms of harassment and bullying. It’s our duty to ensure that every student feels secure, respected and supported within the educational ecosystem.

Amidst our pursuit of continual improvement, it’s crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the strengths already present within our school district. Our committed staff, motivated students and engaged parents lay a solid foundation upon which we can build. While we aim for progress, recognizing our current achievements is equally essential, serving as a wellspring of inspiration and motivation for the journey ahead.

Why should voters choose you over your opponent?

Godfrey: Because of my experience in multiple areas of education, I’m equipped with a unique skill set to be an effective board member. My whole professional career has been focused on understanding and meeting the needs of each child and improving student academic performance. As a community advocate, I have connections throughout the county and welcome questions about reading instruction and elementary math or science state standards. I know those standards well because I was part of a team that helped to write and edit them.

Schumacher: While I may not have a background in teaching, receiving the endorsement of the North Kitsap teachers union demonstrates their willingness to collaborate with me in ensuring our students receive the highest quality education they deserve. Among all the endorsements I’ve received, whether it’s from the Suquamish Tribe or any other group, what excites me the most is our shared commitment to working together to accomplish our goals. Let’s put an end to conflicts, unite as a community and roll up our sleeves to make progress.