Every year, the citizens of New Haven elect new school board members. This year, there were three candidates: Leanne Bauer, Michelle (Guehne) Otten, and Tim Schuck. The election was on April 2nd.
According to election results, Michelle Otten and Leanne Bauer were each elected to 3-year terms on the board. Both new members were interviewed and asked questions that came directly from the NHHS community. Mrs. Bauer’s responses are outlined below in order to give her a chance to speak to the community directly and to offer New Haven a better understanding of what she is all about.
Q: Why did you run for the New Haven School Board of Education?
A: I’ve been extremely involved in the New Haven School District over the past 18 years while my daughters, Megan and Mackenzie, were students here. Now that they have both graduated from New Haven High School, [I] decided to run for the New Haven School Board of Education to stay involved with the school district. I believe now [was] the right time for me to run for school board, because I can bring an unbiased opinion to different matters that are presented to the school board.
Q: Tell us about yourself: Where did you grow up? Do you have family? What community activities have you previously been involved in? What ties do you have to this school district?
A: I am a lifelong resident of New Haven and a 4th generation graduate of New Haven High School. My husband, Patrick, is also a New Haven High School graduate. I’ve been employed by Citizens Bank here in New Haven for the past 23 years. I’ve been a Loan Officer for the bank the past 15 years and currently serve as Assistant Vice President. A few of the past and present committees that I have served on are the Franklin County Area United Way, Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, Gasconade County Chamber of Commerce, New Haven PTO, New Haven Athletic Boosters, and Co-Chair of the New Haven Track Dinner Auction Committee.
Q: What is the purpose of the School Board and what do they do?
A: I believe one of the most important responsibilities of the school board is to work closely with our school staff and our community to improve our student achievement. We are so extremely fortunate here in New Haven, that we have outstanding teachers that truly care for our students and a wonderful community that strongly supports our school district.
Q: What is your vision for the future of the New Haven School District?
A: My vision for the future of the New Haven School District is to maintain and improve our Tradition of Excellence by working with our teachers and administrators to ensure the best environment for our students to achieve their goals.