Schools

Richfield School Board Candidates Attempt to Set Themselves Apart

With a plethora to choose from, how are candidates distinguishing themselves from one another?

There are —most holding the same positions on critical issues—so it may be hard for some voters to make a decision on Nov. 8.

indicated, as of Sunday evening, that while 45 percent of those who answered thought it would be easy to cast their vote, nearly 30 percent thought more information about the candidates was needed. The poll is still collecting data.

How are the candidates, vying for just three seats, working to distinguish themselves? All speak of closing the achievement gap, fixing budgetary issues and, with one exception, the need for passing the referendum.

Find out what's happening in Richfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

While she is among the majority focusing on those issues,  said she’s the only candidate advocating for afterschool activities in her campaign. Being a long-time Richfield resident, married to a Richfield Public Schools teacher and sports coach, are other things Etienne points out as separating her from the pack.

“We must continue to offer quality and competitive after-school programs,” she told Patch. “I believe these areas are athletics, fine arts, band, choir, and other groups, organizations and clubs. This is important because these areas offer tremendous educational value and, along with academics, is the main reason why families choose a school district.“

Find out what's happening in Richfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

said he also noticed, after being a part of the , that many of the candidates held the same positions. As a result, when asked how he differentiates himself from other candidates, Berend said he tells voters he doesn’t have a background as a teacher or administrator. He sees that as a winning characteristic.

“This is a plus and is one of the reasons the citizens of Richfield should vote for me," he said. "My views will never be swayed away from making the right decision for the students.”

Berend points out he has young children enrolled in Richfield schools, and he believes this will allow him to make future-minded decisions, rather than short-term fixes.

, a board member since 2004, is pitching his experience on the board and his background as a CPA.

"Being a CPA gives me a financial perspective," Nollenberger told Patch. "Most people associate a bit of fiscal conservatism with their CPAs and I think I bring some of that to the table."


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