We have six running candidates for the School Board election. I have asked each candidate a series of questions, and assigned one to each. However, two candidates, Todd Holdren and Ben Buchwalter, have won by default due to lack of competition for the Unexpired Term position. The election will be held on November 7th. The location of where you will vote depends on the precinct of your home address. Below are bios/interview questions for each candidate, along with a headshot.

Matthew Carver 

Why did you decide to run?

“I want to take a more active role in the leadership of our school.  It’s important that we attract and retain the best employees.  We also need to develop strong community relationships and work with our educators to ensure policies are in place that give our students the best learning opportunities.  I believe I can help in all these areas.” - Matt

Brad DePugh 

Do you have experience with school politics?

“Today, politics in our society have a negative connotation.  It seems you can’t escape it as part of our national makeup- more so than I’ve ever experienced.  I often use the term “be political” as a way to express that others’ feelings should be taken into consideration when making a decision.  There is no way to make everyone happy in every decision-making process.  There are often varying stances to be taken and I feel it is important to look at every angle.  Decisions related to schools can oftentimes be very tough to make- knowing that not all will be happy with the outcome.  But I believe that as long as things are done in the best interest of our students and staff, they will work out.  It is just so very important to weigh all the pros and cons of each decision and make it with the best information available at the time and with the most compassion available for those it may affect.” - Brad

Richard Lockwood

What would you keep/change if you were elected?  

“I believe there needs to be more engagement with and accountability to our community. Board decisions should take into account the different needs and desires of the school, teachers, families, and community at large, and those decisions should be clearly communicated and accessible to all. I would encourage all stakeholders in the Zane Trace Local School District to attend the school board meetings and voice their concerns, and my hope is that this collaboration between the board and those who elected them will result in a more successful and efficient system at Zane Trace.” - Richard

Kristi Rinehart

How would you explain your management style?

“I would say my style is charismatic because I am deeply committed and I like to help people feel excited and supported. I like to work in a collaborative work setting with open communication and will work as a team player if elected.” - Kristi

Bill Rinehart

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days?

“To familiarize myself with board policies and the school budget and finances.” - Bill

Pam Tatman 

What ideas do you have when it comes to school safety?

“When it comes to school safety, I think updating the school's safety plans at the beginning of each academic school year would be a must. In doing this, send the plans to law enforcement/fire agencies for review. I feel that the school has a good start as far as planning for these situations already in place. Taking safety a step further, I would ensure that we are building ” - Pam