Dorothy Kersten has worked as a teacher for the past 30 years, teaching everything from Head Start to Adult Education/GED. Kersten currently teaches science to fifth-grade students. She is running for the school board because she values children and education. “Through teamwork board members make a difference in students’ lives. Aside from parents, few things impact a child as much as his [or her] K-12 education. It is rewarding to see students succeed and lead productive lives as a result of educational opportunities the board helped to create.” Some of the issues Kersten is interested in addressing are continuous student improvement (making sure students are prepared for the next level in their equation and do well on testing); maintaining small class sizes and providing students, teachers and other staff with the resources they need to be successful. When looking at the current board, Kersten said that there are many things it is doing right. She said she agreed with their hiring of qualified people for positions, including current educational leader, Dr. Scott Thielman. She also agreed with the board decisions on getting community input to improve and expand facilities. The number one goal Kersten will work for if elected is personnel. “My goal is to hire people and retain them by providing the environment and resources they need to maximize learning for all students.” According to Kersten, a successful board member would be described as organized and passionate for the position. “A successful board member is a good communicator, shows respect for district staff, cares deeply about children and public education, prepares for meetings, hast time and energy to devote to job, and is a team player who respects the democratic process.” Her two children graduated from KAHS and are now in their twenties. Her children’s experience at the school contributes to what she likes best about the community. “What I like most about the district is how well our children were treated and educated. Concerning Kimball, it is the “roots” that this community gave them. One concern she would like to address is increasing the school age population with the district. “Reductions in state funding due to legislative changes and declining enrollment are having an impact.” Kersten has served as the secretary on the Fairhaven Zoning and Planning Board for over 10 years. She has also served on the Kimball School Board for over 10 years in various positions; and is an active member of the Concordia Lutheran Church.
