The Bluffton Icon will feature information on the four candidates running for three seats on the Bluffton School Board of Education in the November 2 General Election: Bradley J. Dailey, Mitch Giesige, Roni L. Kaufman and Wesley L. Klinger. The information is provided by the League of Women Voters of the Lima Area. You can also view the complete PDF report for Allen County.

BLUFFTON SCHOOL BOARD OF EDUCATION Term Commences 01/01/2022

Vote for no more than 3 

Responsibilities: School Board Members set educational goals and establish policy for the system based upon state laws and community values. Their most important function is to employ a superintendent and treasurer and hold them responsible for managing the school in accordance with the school board’s policies.

Term: 4 years Salary: $100/meeting (Maximum of $1,200)

Mitch Giesige

Current Occupation: Engineer

Education: Bachelor of Science

Q: What is the single most important issue facing your school district and how would you address this issue?

A: Being able to bring a fresh perspective and ideas is beneficial in any situation involving any school board. I believe being able to keep open communication and transparency amongst staff and faculty is also key to the success of any school. At the same time you have to make sure your student body is engaging not only in the classroom but extracurricular activities as well.

Q: What specific strengths would you bring to the board table?

A: Communication and team work with people from multiple cultures and backgrounds. Budget management, and leadership has also been a large part of my career experiences along with analysis.

Q: What is your position on Ohio HB322 and HB327, as proposed by the Ohio House, which if passed, will have an impact on K-12 as well as higher educational institutions?

A: There is still a lot of ambiguity to both of these bills which stills need more detailed clarification. I don’t believe government should have the right to dictate what is or is not being taught to our children regarding sensitive subjects. Every state and every country has history, which is important to learn and understand so we can draw the positives out and also not make the same mistakes as in some situations. I don’t believe its fair or realistic to use these bills as financial leverage against schools as well, which would ultimately impact the education of our youth, which is the main priority.

Additional information on the November 2 Bluffton ballot will be posted on the Bluffton Icon. See pages 4 and 7 of the LWV Voter Guide for Bluffton council and school board candidates.