Priorities & Campaign Goals
Putting Students First. Strengthening Our Public Schools. Supporting Our Community.
As a parent, educator, and longtime member of the Kimberly community, I believe in strong public schools that serve every child. I am committed to preserving and strengthening our district—and to opposing efforts to privatize or divert funding away from public education.
My priorities reflect what matters most to families: student well-being, academic excellence, responsible budgeting, and transparent leadership.
1. Student Success & Academic Excellence
Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Kimberly has a strong record of achievement, and I want to build on that foundation so all students can succeed—no matter what path they choose after high school.
I will work to:
- Support strong foundations in literacy and math
- Expand enrichment, advanced coursework, AP/Honors classes, and hands-on learning
- Provide effective interventions for students who need additional support
- Strengthen programs for students with special needs
- Promote healthy, positive learning environments
- Prepare students for all futures: entering the workforce, attending a 2-year technical college, or pursuing a 4-year university degree
Every student deserves the opportunity to excel—on the path that’s right for them.
2. Safe & Supportive Schools
Students learn best when they feel safe, welcomed, and respected. Their physical and emotional well-being must always remain a top priority.
I will advocate for:
- Updated and well-practiced safety plans and training
- Strong mental-health resources and early-intervention supports
- Consistent enforcement of bullying-prevention policies
- Secure facilities that still feel welcoming to students and families
A safe student is a successful student.
3. Supporting & Retaining Excellent Teachers
Our teachers are the heart of our public schools. When educators feel supported, students benefit.
I will champion:
- Competitive compensation that attracts and retains strong educators
- High-quality professional development
- Access to instructional resources and classroom support
- Respectful, collaborative working environments
- Adequate staffing to reduce burnout
Supporting teachers is supporting students—and strengthening public education.
4. Fiscal Responsibility & Smart Budgeting
High-quality education and responsible budgeting must go hand-in-hand. Our community expects transparency and careful stewardship of taxpayer resources.
I will focus on:
- Carefully evaluating spending to maximize value
- Transparent budgeting that is easy for families to understand
- Investing in programs that directly support student learning and safety
- Long-term planning that avoids unnecessary financial burdens
Strong public schools depend on both excellence and accountability.
5. Communication, Transparency & Community Voice
Families deserve clear, consistent communication from their school district. Trust grows when decisions are open, accessible, and understandable.
My commitment is to:
- Support open, accessible board meetings
- Make plans, data, and policies easy for families to understand
- Strengthen district communication with families and staff
- Listen carefully to parents, teachers, and community members
Transparency leads to stronger, more united schools.
6. Preparing Students for Life After Graduation
The world is changing rapidly, and our public schools must prepare students for a wide range of futures.
I will support:
- Career and technical education programs
- Pathways in STEM, business, skilled trades, and emerging fields
- Technology that enhances learning—not replaces teaching
- Digital literacy and responsible technology use
- Partnerships with local businesses and community organizations
- Programs that build problem-solving, communication, and real-world skills
Whether students choose the workforce, a technical college, or a university, they deserve to graduate ready for success.
Together, We Can Build a Strong Future for Kimberly
These priorities aren’t about politics—they’re about supporting our public schools, our teachers, and our students. I’m committed to listening, learning, and leading with integrity to support every child, every day.
— Steve Schilhabel