My Values Statement

As a dedicated advocate for equity, inclusion, and educational excellence, my vision for ISD 110 is to create a school environment where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. I believe that strong schools are built on the principles of transparency, collaboration, and respect for diverse perspectives. I'm committed to ensuring financial responsibility without compromising the needs of the staff and students.

Equity and Inclusion
I am committed to ensuring that every student—regardless of their background, identity, or ability—has equal access to opportunities, resources, and a high-quality education. By fostering an inclusive culture, we create spaces where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Transparency and Accountability
As a school board member, I will work to ensure open communication and transparent decision-making processes. Families, students, and staff deserve to be part of a collaborative dialogue, where their voices are heard, valued, and reflected in the policies we create.

Empowering Students and Supporting Educators
A successful school system nurtures both its students and its staff. I will advocate for policies that support the professional growth of educators while prioritizing the well-being and success of students. Our educators play a critical role in shaping our future, and I will ensure they have the resources and support needed to help all students achieve their potential.

Commitment to Lifelong Learning
As a lifelong learner, I believe education doesn’t stop at graduation—it’s a journey we all share. I am committed to not only promoting learning opportunities for our students but also continuing to grow and develop my own knowledge and skills. As a member of the school board, I will bring my expertise in governance and leadership, collaborating with my colleagues to share best practices and foster a spirit of continuous improvement. By supporting a learning culture among students, staff, and the board itself, we can build a district where innovation and growth are encouraged at every level. Together, we can create a school system that reflects our evolving community, prepares our students for the future, and leads with integrity and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Together, we can build a school district that upholds the values of equity, belonging, and excellence, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.

— Darcie Baumann
Candidate for Waconia School Board, ISD 110

Equity and Inclusion: Creating Schools Where Every Student Can Thrive

At the heart of my campaign for the Waconia School Board is a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. As our community continues to grow and diversify, it is more important than ever that our schools reflect the values of respect, acceptance, and opportunity for all. I believe that every student—no matter their background, identity, or ability—deserves equal access to a high-quality education and the resources they need to succeed.

Why Equity and Inclusion Matter
Equity goes beyond equality. It means recognizing the unique challenges that students from different backgrounds may face and actively working to address those barriers. Whether it’s ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support they need, creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ students, or addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, equity ensures that all students have the tools to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Fostering an Inclusive Culture
Creating inclusive schools requires more than just policies on paper—it involves cultivating a culture where every student feels seen, heard, and respected. This starts with creating environments where students can express their full identities without fear of judgment or exclusion. It also means teaching our students about the value of diversity and encouraging empathy, understanding, and respect across differences.

As someone who has dedicated much of my career to advocating for diversity and inclusion, I understand the importance of bringing these values into our schools. Whether through inclusive curricula that represent a wide range of perspectives, or by supporting staff in implementing culturally responsive teaching methods, I will work to ensure that every student feels they belong and are supported in their educational journey.

Policies That Reflect Our Values
Inclusive policies are a cornerstone of ensuring equity in our schools. This means addressing issues such as access to mental health resources, anti-bullying initiatives, and ensuring that students from marginalized communities have the same opportunities for success as their peers. I will work to create policies that reflect the diverse needs of our student population and ensure that no student is left behind.

Equity also requires that we listen to our community. Our district must engage with families, caregivers, and students from all backgrounds, gathering input to make sure that policies truly reflect the lived experiences of those we serve. By fostering a collaborative dialogue between the school board, educators, families, and caregivers, we can ensure that our schools continue to grow as safe, welcoming spaces for everyone.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Just as we encourage our students to learn and grow, we must also be open to learning ourselves. As a school board member, I will continue to engage with experts, educators, and the community to stay informed about the best practices in equity and inclusion. This commitment to lifelong learning allows us to create schools that evolve alongside our community, meeting the needs of every student, today and into the future.

Together, We Can Build a More Inclusive ISD 110
I believe that by prioritizing equity and inclusion, we can build a stronger, more united ISD 110 where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Our schools should be a place where students of all backgrounds feel supported and empowered to reach their full potential. It is my goal to ensure that the values of equity and inclusion are reflected not just in policy, but in the day-to-day experiences of every student in our district.

Together, we can foster an educational environment where all students—regardless of who they are or where they come from—can thrive.

—Darcie Baumann
Candidate for Waconia School Board, ISD 110

Transparency and Accountability: Building Trust Through Open Communication

In any school district, transparency and accountability are crucial to fostering trust and ensuring that the needs of students, families, caregivers, and educators are met. As a candidate for the Waconia School Board, I believe that these values are the foundation of effective leadership. When decisions are made openly, and with clear communication, the entire community benefits. My commitment to transparency and accountability means that I will work tirelessly to ensure that all voices are heard, respected, and considered in the policies that shape our schools.

Why Transparency Matters
Transparent decision-making is about more than just sharing information—it’s about creating a culture of openness and accessibility. In our schools, this means ensuring that families, caregivers, students, and staff are fully informed about decisions that impact them, from curriculum changes to budget allocations and school safety policies. By being transparent, we build trust with the community and demonstrate that we value their input.

Transparency also empowers the community. When information is easily accessible, families and caregivers can engage more fully with the school district, making it easier for them to advocate for their children’s needs and actively participate in shaping the future of our schools. As a school board member, I will make sure that information is communicated clearly and consistently, giving everyone a chance to be part of the conversation.

Collaborative Decision-Making
Accountability goes hand-in-hand with transparency. It means that as a school board member, I will be responsible for ensuring that the decisions we make reflect the input and needs of the entire community. This includes families, caregivers, students, teachers, and support staff. I believe that effective decision-making is collaborative. Everyone who is impacted by a decision should have the opportunity to contribute their perspective.

Our schools should be a place where students feel empowered to express their concerns, where teachers are heard and supported, and where families and caregivers feel that their voices truly matter. To achieve this, I will advocate for creating spaces—both formal and informal—where open dialogue can happen. Whether through regular community forums, surveys, or open board meetings, I will ensure that communication flows both ways: from the board to the community, and from the community to the board.

Holding Ourselves Accountable
Accountability means that leaders take responsibility for the outcomes of their decisions. As a school board member, I will not shy away from tough conversations or difficult decisions, but I will always ensure that those decisions are made with integrity, thoughtfulness, and the input of the people they affect.

It’s not enough to simply listen—we must act. I will work to create policies that reflect the needs and values of our community, and I will hold myself accountable to the people of ISD 110. This includes regularly reviewing policies and outcomes to make sure that we are staying true to our commitments and being open about how we can improve.

Clear, Consistent Communication
To maintain transparency, communication must be clear and consistent. As a school board member, I will advocate for improved communication channels between the district and the community. This includes making information about board decisions, policies, and initiatives easy to access and understand. I will ensure that we communicate not just through formal channels like meetings and reports, but also through direct engagement with families, caregivers, students, and staff.

In today’s digital world, there are many ways to stay connected, and we should be using every tool at our disposal to keep our community informed and engaged. Whether through social media updates, newsletters, or town hall meetings, I will ensure that no one is left in the dark about what’s happening in our schools.

Working Together for a Stronger ISD 110
Transparency and accountability are not just principles I believe in—they are the cornerstones of the way I will serve as a school board member. When we are open and honest in our decision-making and hold ourselves accountable to the community, we create a district where everyone feels valued and included.

By fostering a culture of trust and collaboration, we can ensure that our schools remain responsive to the needs of all students, families, and caregivers. I believe that, together, we can build a stronger, more transparent, and accountable ISD 110 where everyone has a voice.

—Darcie Baumann
Candidate for Waconia School Board, ISD 110

Empowering Students and Supporting Educators: Building a Foundation for Success

A thriving school district is built on two essential pillars: empowered students and supported educators. These two groups are at the heart of any educational system, and when they are both given the tools and resources they need to succeed, the entire community benefits. As a candidate for the Waconia School Board, I am committed to advocating for policies that prioritize student well-being while fostering the professional growth of educators. By creating a supportive, nurturing environment for both, we can ensure a brighter future for everyone.

Empowering Students to Thrive
Every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. To do that, we must create school environments that not only focus on academic achievement but also prioritize the emotional and social well-being of our students. Success isn’t just about grades—it’s about building confidence, fostering critical thinking, and teaching students how to navigate an increasingly complex world.

I believe that students thrive when they feel supported, seen, and understood. That means creating classrooms where diversity is celebrated, individuality is encouraged, and every student has access to the resources they need, regardless of their background or ability. This includes everything from mental health support and individualized learning plans to extracurricular programs that allow students to explore their passions and build their skills.

In my role on the school board, I will work to ensure that every student in ISD 110 has access to the opportunities that will help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. We need to provide environments where students feel safe, empowered, and excited to learn, so they can grow into thoughtful, engaged citizens.

Supporting and Valuing Educators
Educators are the foundation of our school system. They are the mentors, guides, and role models who inspire our students every day. For our schools to succeed, we must invest in our educators—ensuring they have the resources, training, and support they need to meet the diverse needs of their students.

Supporting educators means more than just providing professional development opportunities (though that is crucial). It means creating a school culture that values their contributions, listens to their concerns, and empowers them to innovate in their classrooms. Teachers should feel confident that they have the tools and backing to meet their students’ unique needs, and that their voices will be heard in policy discussions that affect their work.

As our community grows and evolves, so do the demands placed on educators. That’s why I will advocate for policies that support their professional growth, such as access to ongoing training in areas like culturally responsive teaching, mental health awareness, and the integration of new technologies into the classroom. By investing in our teachers, we’re also investing in our students’ futures.

A Holistic Approach to Education
Empowering students and supporting educators are not separate priorities—they are deeply intertwined. A school environment that values students’ diverse needs also values the educators who guide them. When educators are given the tools to grow, students benefit from innovative, engaged teaching. When students are supported, teachers are able to focus on cultivating learning, creativity, and exploration rather than managing barriers.

We must create policies that reflect this holistic approach. This includes addressing teacher workload, providing mental health resources for both staff and students, and ensuring classrooms are equipped with the latest tools and technologies. I will advocate for solutions that lift both students and educators, recognizing that their success is deeply interconnected.

Building a Future Together
A strong school system is one where both students and educators feel empowered to do their best work. As a member of the Waconia School Board, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our schools are places where students feel inspired to learn and grow, and where educators feel supported and valued in their crucial role.

Together, we can build a school district that fosters growth, innovation, and success for all. By investing in the well-being and professional development of educators, and by creating an environment where students feel supported and empowered, we can ensure a brighter, more inclusive future for ISD 110.

—Darcie Baumann

Candidate for Waconia School Board, ISD 110

Commitment to Lifelong Learning: A Vision for Growth and Innovation in ISD 110

Education is not a destination; it’s a lifelong journey. As a candidate for the Waconia School Board, my commitment to lifelong learning is central to my vision for ISD 110. I believe that learning doesn’t stop when we leave the classroom—it continues throughout our lives, shaping who we are and how we contribute to our communities. This philosophy drives my approach to leadership and informs my dedication to fostering a culture of growth, curiosity, and continuous improvement within our schools.

Learning Beyond Graduation
For students, education is about more than just academic success—it’s about cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning that will stay with them for life. Our responsibility as educators and community leaders is to create an environment where students feel inspired to explore, ask questions, and challenge themselves. By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, we prepare our students not just for their next test or class, but for their futures as active, engaged citizens.

This means encouraging students to see education as a dynamic process, where they have the opportunity to explore new ideas, develop new skills, and grow both intellectually and personally. Whether it’s through innovative curricula, hands-on learning opportunities, or extracurricular programs that ignite their passions, I will advocate for policies that ensure all students have access to the tools they need to continue learning and growing long after they leave our classrooms.

Leading by Example: Lifelong Learning as a School Board Member
As a lifelong learner myself, I believe it’s important to practice what we teach. My educational journey didn’t follow the traditional path, and I’ve worked hard to continue my studies as an adult, earning a degree in Applied Organizational Studies and a minor in Nonprofit Leadership. My experiences have taught me the value of perseverance and adaptability—skills I bring to my role as a leader and advocate.

As a member of the school board, I will approach every challenge with a commitment to growth and learning. This means actively seeking out new knowledge, listening to the perspectives of others, and being open to change and innovation. Education is an ever-evolving field, and I believe it’s essential for board members to stay informed about best practices, emerging trends, and the latest research in education.

I will continue to develop my own expertise in governance and leadership, collaborating with my colleagues to share knowledge and insights that can help shape the future of ISD 110. By fostering a spirit of lifelong learning at every level of the district—from students to staff to board members—we can ensure that our schools are constantly improving and adapting to meet the needs of our community.

Building a Culture of Learning for Educators and Staff
Lifelong learning isn’t just for students. Our educators and staff should also be encouraged and supported in their professional development. Teachers are at the forefront of our educational system, and they deserve access to ongoing training and resources that help them grow in their roles. By investing in professional development opportunities, we empower our educators to bring new ideas and approaches into the classroom, ultimately benefiting our students.

Whether it’s providing workshops on culturally responsive teaching, offering training in new technologies, or creating opportunities for peer collaboration, I am committed to ensuring that our teachers have the tools and support they need to continue learning and growing in their careers. A district that values and supports the growth of its educators is one that fosters innovation and creativity in the classroom.

Innovation and Growth at Every Level
By embracing lifelong learning, we create a district where innovation is encouraged at every level. This means staying open to new ideas, being willing to try new approaches, and continually seeking ways to improve. Whether it’s through introducing cutting-edge technology, exploring new teaching methods, or revisiting outdated policies, I believe that growth and innovation should be constant priorities for our district.

Our community is evolving, and our schools must evolve with it. As a school board member, I will advocate for policies that reflect the diverse needs of our community, ensuring that we are preparing our students for the future. Lifelong learning isn’t just about keeping up with the latest trends—it’s about building a school system that is adaptable, forward-thinking, and ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

A Future Built on Learning
Together, we can build a school district that values learning at every stage of life. By fostering a culture of curiosity, growth, and innovation, we empower our students to reach their full potential and inspire our educators to continue leading with passion and creativity. My commitment to lifelong learning extends to every student, staff member, and leader in ISD 110. Let’s work together to create a school system where education is not just a phase, but a journey we all take—today, tomorrow, and for a lifetime.

—Darcie Baumann
Candidate for Waconia School Board, ISD 110