As part of a homeschool civics class comprised of students in the 7th through 10th grade levels, students were asked to write opinion editorials on topics of their own choosing which reflect current themes in governance and policy-making.
Over the course of the next few weeks the class will be tracking the views of and commentary on their op-eds with the goal of generating as much meaningful community engagement as possible.
A prize will be awarded to the student who is most successful at generating meaningful community engagement with their op-ed.
Thanks so much for partnering with us to create this experience for the children and teaching them to be actively involved in the governance of their community!
Should I Vote for School Board?
by HSC22
With elections just weeks away, now is the opportune time to decide if you will vote and who you will vote for. The election on November 7 is for various positions around Bonner County including mayor, city council and school board trustees. They all contribute to the well being of our town, making it an extremely important decision for the public. Many of us do not realize how big an impact the local government makes on our lives. They are responsible for city water, the streets we drive on, and fire and police departments. Our whole life is shaped by the laws and ordinances in our town. The election is when we as the people get to make a big impact in the government that dictates much of our daily lives.
The school board is a very important topic. The future population of Sandpoint is growing up in government schools right now. Their academic and life skills are on the line when we choose who is in charge. Scott Wood and Jenn McKnight are running in the Zone 1 trustee race for the Lake Pend Oreille School District.
I believe Jenn McKnight is the best choice for the LPOSD board. She has said she is a conservative Christian who cares about her family. She wants children to belong to their family, not to the school. McKnight believes some issues should be taught by the parents. If children learn the right things in school and at home, the next generation will be strong, prosperous, and independent.
Here’s a link to Jenn McKnight’s Facebook page and website McKnightForLPOSD
Scott Wood is the other candidate for school board in Zone 1. In his cover photo on Facebook and on his mailer, it says, “Vote to ensure our schools provide our kids the education they deserve.” Saying our kids implies that he and the community knows what’s best for our children. While each child should have access to a good education, each family and child may have different needs and priorities. The school board does not have ultimate authority over your kids, and should ensure that families don’t just get a say but maintain control over their child’s education.
Here’s a link to Scott Wood’s Facebook page
When elections are non-partisan (like this one is), it can take an elevated amount of discernment to choose who to vote for. Consider carefully how you want the school board contributing to the education of the future generation of Sandpoint.
(Graphics from respective Facebook pages)
Related Article: The Status Quo is NOT Good Enough
