Kassandra Nelson

Pillager School Board Member: ISD #116
(elect 3)

Political Party:

Age:

37

Occupation:

Dermatology Nurse Practitioner

Family:

Married with 3 children in the Pillager School District

Phone:

Email:

kasssull7@gmail.com

Website:

Three words that best describe you as a candidate:

Committed Collaborative Empathetic

Experience:

As a School Board member, I have experience advocating for equitable policies, supporting diverse student needs, and fostering community engagement. I have collaborated with educators, parents, and stakeholders to enhance educational quality and resource allocation. My commitment is to transparent decision-making, accountability, and ensuring all students have opportunities to thrive.

Why are you running?

I’m running to ensure all students receive a high-quality education and equitable opportunities. I aim to address gaps in resources and support, foster strong community partnerships, and advocate for innovative solutions to meet diverse needs. My goal is to enhance educational outcomes and build a thriving school community.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

What sets me apart is my deep commitment to inclusivity and equity, combined with a proven track record of collaborative problem-solving. I bring a unique perspective on addressing educational challenges and engaging with community members. My focus on transparent, data-driven decisions ensures that every student receives the support they need.

What are the top two or three issues facing the school district?

The top three issues facing our community in education are: 1) Underfunding of schools, leading to inadequate resources and outdated materials. 2) Inequitable access to quality education, with significant disparities between different socioeconomic groups. 3) Teacher shortages and high turnover rates, resulting in larger class sizes and less personalized attention for students. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving educational outcomes and ensuring all students receive a fair opportunity to succeed.

What are your plans to address those issues?

To address educational challenges, I plan to advocate for increased funding through community and government channels to ensure schools have up-to-date resources. I will work on programs that promote equity by supporting initiatives that provide additional resources and support to all students. Additionally, I aim to collaborate with local organizations to develop teacher retention strategies and professional development opportunities, creating a solid teaching environment for all students.

How would you prioritize area businesses, jobs and the economy?

How would you address the school district’s budget needs?

I'd advocate for increased funding through community engagement and legislative action. Partnering with businesses and nonprofits can provide additional support. Prioritizing essential areas like teacher salaries and resources, and improving budget efficiency and transparency, will ensure funds are used effectively to meet the district’s needs.

*All candidates were contacted between August 19 and September 13, 2024 at email addresses and phone numbers listed in public filing records. Questionnaires had strict word/time limits and are published EXACTLY as submitted. No info is displayed if a candidate didn’t respond.

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