Priscilla Shaw-Ekerson and incumbent Kelly Vance both hope to be the Montesano School Board director for District 5. The Vidette sent them both questionnaires. Here are there responses, which have been edited to fit the space provided.
Priscilla Shaw-Ekerson
Why do you feel you are the best candidate for this job?
I have served 23 years in the U.S. Army. During that time, I served in many diverse leadership roles both in and out of education. I retired as the Program Director for the U.S. Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing Phase II at Madigan Army Medical Center. Students graduate with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Through the various positions I held and through my own college education, I have extensive experience in both education, research, leadership and management. … I work very well in diverse settings where a team approach is necessary and will be a strong advocate for them all. I am also fair, honest and believe integrity is key in any leadership position. I would bring in a new prospective to the community based on my experience with many different primary and secondary schools throughout my three children’s education in multiple states while serving in the Army.
What is the number one challenge the person elected to this position will face in the coming term?
I think the biggest challenges the school board will face in the near future is increasing enrollment with the growth in Montesano … . With that, we will have increasing diversity in our student population. We will have to accommodate these students and welcome them to our school district all while ensuring we have the teachers and funds to maintain the education and experience our students currently have.
What are the big challenges facing the Montesano School District now? (if different from previous question)
Some of the biggest challenges the Montesano School District are facing are similar to what most schools in our country face which includes budgetary issues, recruitment and retention of teachers, and most importantly meeting state assessment standards while ensuring our children both learn and maintain the knowledge that these tests are trying to assess. In many areas of education from the primary level through college it is important to meet testing standards and avoid teaching strictly to the test.
What are your goals in office if you are elected?
My goals while in office include speaking directly to families in the community as well as teachers and administrators to support their endeavors and help identify areas we can improve, further helping students gain the education they need to be successful in life. I also want to be a strong advocate for students living in underrepresented rural areas of Montesano in District 5. The Montesano school district has the reputation of being one of the best schools in Grays Harbor and I want to help maintain that reputation and help make it even more successful. I would like to find more avenues for scholarships through both academics and sports for our graduating seniors. We have one of the highest graduation rates in the state at 97% and helping them succeed beyond high school is critical for their future.
What is your profession?
I am a certified registered nurse anesthetist and educator.
What information about your personal background would you like to share? (Family?)
I moved to Montesano in 2018 after retiring from the Army. My husband has been a teacher for 19 years and was born and raised on Middle-Satsop Road in Montesano. … He has 3 school-age children who reside in Montesano. My three children are currently college in California and Washington.
Kelly Vance
Why do you feel you are the best candidate for this job?
I have been on the Montesano School Board for 4 years and have served as board chair throughout. Montesano has been my home for over 45 years and I am a proud MHS Alumni. I have experience working with the school district administration as well as staff. With the change in school funding, I believe my experience and the knowledge I have gained over the years will help guide the decisions we make as a District.
What is the number one challenge the person elected to this position will face in the coming term?
Levy and potential bond. Working with the legislature to continue to improve on properly funding education which includes providing districts with the money to keep and recruit teachers as well as providing dollars to be able to pay classified staff.
What are the big challenges facing the Montesano School Board now? (if different from previous question)
With any small(er) district; Providing curriculum variety to meet required credits for students with diverse learning interests and capabilities. Our Board is active in the School Directors Association and we look to other schools to see what has been successful. Our CTE/STEM director is diligent at providing additional courses to meet these needs and we will continue to support the opportunities this will bring to our students at MHS.
What are your goals in office if you are elected?
I commit to continue to oversee & support our Superintendent, Dan Winter and his knowledgeable district staff. Sustaining the districts standards and balanced budget are key, with an enriching focus of the best possible learning atmosphere for our students. Also, providing support and resources for students and teachers as well as being a voice for the parents and citizens of Montesano.
Tell me about your background and what qualifies you for this job?
I have been involved in our community & schools through my family and work, confirming my dedication to our district’s success and advocate for our student body & staff. You may have seen me on a field trip, a school event, National Night Out, Every 32 minutes, or assisting one of Monte’s various clubs.
What is your profession?
Senior Branch Office Administrator for Edward Jones Investments with Steve Poler in Montesano since 2000.
What information about your personal background would you like to share? (Family?)
I was born, raised, and graduated in Montesano, where I returned to reside, raise children, and give back to the community I thank for my upbringing. A majority of my family still resides here; the Cokeley’s and McAlpin’s.We raised two daughters, Abigail and Jessica through the Monte School District and are proud to be MHS alumni going three generations deep! In my spare time you might find me in a gym class, walking, enjoying coffee with friends, or gardening — that’s if I’m not out on a weekend adventure or traveling.
