Deborah Herr is one of four candidates for Bluffton school board on Nov. 7. The Icon's interview with Herr follows. To read interviews with each of the candidates click here.
Deborah A. Herr
9171 Bentley Road, Bluffton
Why are you seeking a seat on the school board?
I have volunteered at the school for many years and I believe that there is room for improvement in many areas. Others will point at the Ohio Dept. of Education score for “Achievement” as evidence that everything is great. There are three Putnam County school districts with better “Achievement”. Doesn’t that mean Bluffton should be doing better? I am not looking to upset the apple cart but add some additional fruits.
And, why should someone vote for you?
I have worked in government finance for years and will bring that fiscal experience to the budgeting for Bluffton Schools. I have taught string instruments at Bluffton Schools for years. I know many of the teachers and administrators first hand already. I will work to expand arts education at Bluffton.
What are the major issues facing Bluffton schools in the next 4 years?
• Funding – I see decreased State Funding becoming a real issue for the future.
• Stopping Bullying and creating an inclusive environment.
• Physical Space/Buildings – we have never recovered from the closing of the Beaverdam building.
Are there programs you’d like to see added to the curriculum?
The ODE Grade Card pointed out Bluffton is falling down on “Prepared for Success.” While I am not positive, I don’t see where Bluffton offers Advanced Placement Classes or many industry recognized credentials.
Or as extra-curricular activity?
I propose starting to work towards a greatly expanded extra-curricular program. Music, Dance, Performing Arts, and various arts or crafts like painting, ceramics, stained glass, sewing and knitting and many more possibilities. There are also club sports like bowling that currently lie outside the official “school” designation that should be integrated.
Are there areas in the recently released Bluffton 2016 school report card that concern you?
Bluffton is a great place for the round peg. If you fit in, comply with the teachers, and get good grades, Bluffton is the place for you. Not so much if your child is a square peg. And the ODE Grade Card bears that fact out. For gifted students, Bluffton gets an “A”. For students in the lowest 20% in Achievement or disability, Bluffton gets a “C”.
If so, how should they be addressed?
I believe that expanding the extra-curricular programs is a key solution. Creation of a inclusive environment where everyone can have friends and school related activities that make the student feel like the belong will improve their performance in school. We need to treat children like children and make going to school something the students look forward to.
Feel free to address any other subject here that you’d like to provide to voters:
Bluffton Schools aren’t broken. The changes I discussed wouldn’t happen overnight nor should they. I would be only 1 of 5 school board members. But I want to be the voice that asks “Why not?” These ideas will also take funding. I believe that we can find the funding in the Arts community for these programs. I also believe that committing to an expansive Arts pilot will attract positive growth for the entire community. Much of this expansion can be accomplished through partnering with individuals, community groups and businesses already involved in these areas.
Are there issues that you disagree with that the current school board passed?
I know there are decisions I disagree with but I don’t believe that is the correct way to look at the topic. I believe that the current school board consists of honest and hardworking individuals who voted In accordance with their belief.
How would you make your voting decisions as a school board member?|
I would ask three questions.
Is this the best answer for the continued success of Bluffton Schools?
Is this good for the students and staff of Bluffton Schools?
Does this vote fulfill my commitment to my constituents?
If all 3 answers are yes, then you have my vote.
