School Board candidates discuss money, sex education at debate

WASILLA -- Matanuska-Susitna Borough School Board candidates Rob Wells, Sarah Welton and Konnie Shuey debated last week over issues facing the Valley's education system. Wells is running unchallenged for School Board Seat A, Welton and Shuey are running against one another for seat B. Both seats are for three-year terms. Wells and Welton both sit on the board now.

One issue all three candidates agreed upon was the necessity to find ways to balance the budget without cutting more staff. Wells especially pushed the need for outside assistance, but also conveyed that he understood that budget constraints are happening at all levels.

"It's a real challenge, we need funding from the legislation for some relief. I don't believe there is more cutting to be done," Wells said. "The cutting has taken its toll, and I'm not willing to cut any further."

Both Welton and Shuey agreed.

"We have to work with the Legislature in any way we can in order to squeeze more money," Shuey said.

"We need to work with the Legislature; make them aware of our issues," Welton said.

Each candidate had different ideas on how to reach adequate yearly progress in Mat-Su schools next year. Shuey said she felt that bringing in reading programs like Slingerland would help. Wells said he thought focusing on curriculum alignment and attendance would be beneficial, and Welton said educating parents on what the tests really mean and finding alternative assessments for those with special needs would both be ways to boost AYP.

One area candidates did not agree on is sex education in schools. While the district does not have an official sex education class, students are taught about sex during classes such as health and biology. Wells and Welton both thought that the way the district handled sex education was appropriate.

"If we have a health class and we ignore a part of the body, we are not providing our students with adequate life skills," Welton said.

Shuey said she disagrees.

"I am absolutely opposed to any sex education in schools, we need to instill our own morals and values on our children," she said. "I took biology and I didn't [learn about sex], you don't need to learn it in school."

All candidates either have children enrolled or have had children enrolled in public schools. At the moment, Shuey's children attend Palmer Christian School, but are enrolled in the district's home school program; Shuey said she will begin to teach her boys herself as soon as the election is over.

Candidate's statement on why they believe they should be on the school board:

Wells: "The teachers, principals, administration and classified staff are dedicated. Without them, learning wouldn't happen. We have to have adequate funding so they can do their jobs.

I still feel I can bring some positive energy to the system, and help that happen."

Shuey: "People feel the school board is not listening, but it just takes someone who's got the gumption to step up to the plate. I have a vested interest in the community and the schools. I will fight for our kids."

Welton: "I gave myself three questions to look at when I was first assigned to school board. Does it promote education? Is it ethical? Is it prudent? This is the way I evaluate things. I do my homework, I pay attention. I answer

questions, I dispell rumors."