There are five candidates running for the Juda School Board.
Courtney Martins
Personal Background:
Husband Carl Ruegsegger and 4 children
Why are you qualified to serve:
I became a member of the community back in 2021. I have a vested interest our school’s success as my children and the international children we host attend Juda Schools. My daughter attended numerous schools throughout the years and I have a good amount of insight on what makes a strong school district and what causes districts to fall behind.
What is the biggest issue in the race/election:
From attending numerous events throughout the year, I frequently hear community members express their concerns about the transparency at the school. I think we can find new ways to get the community more involved so they are confident in the school’s decisions and practices.
Dennis Pfingsten
Incumbent
Personal Background:
Originally from Crystal Lake, Illinois and Monroe
Why are you qualified to serve:
I have been member of the Juda School Board for 21 years, past 14 as President. I am active in the Juda Community through Juda Fire and First Response and Juda Zion Community Church both for over 30 years. Being active in the community for many years I hear from people and their questions about the school district and am able to address them in a timely manner. I believe I have a good understanding of how things in the district work and the community’s pride in the school and what it has to offer.
What is the biggest issue in the race/election:
I don’t feel there is a big issue in the election as it relates to Juda. The bigger issue is the state’s funding formula for public education. For years the funding received from the State for education has severely lagged behind inflation, and this is evident in the number of schools across the state going to operational referendums, including Juda this year. As a member of the board for many years I feel we have been good stewards of taxpayers money in Juda, and I will continue to be in the future if re-elected to the board.
Jennifer Brooks
Personal Background:
Husband Gary, Daughters Breanna, Katie, Olivia and Chloe Brooks
Why are you qualified to serve:
The best qualifications to serve your local school board are simply the willingness to give back to your community.
Our family has been huge supporters of not only the Juda School, but other important organizations over the years. As a local farmer, business owner and parent, I do wear many hats. With each hat, I can add a different perspective and bring new ideas to the school board. Above all, I believe in the merit of community involvement, American farm values and supporting the youth and their many programs and organizations.
In conclusion, my agricultural background and skill set have developed me to be a successful contributing team member on the Juda School Board.
What is the biggest issue in the race/election:
With any local government, there are, and always will be issues that unfold. The best way to combat these matters, is to be sure everyone is fully transparent.
In all the years as a Juda School District tax payer, I do not think I have ever encountered such a divided feeling over recent financial differences.
I believe school districts should ensure the students receive the best education possible. As well as supporting the teachers in their pursuit of educating our children. All the while being straightforward with the community.
It’s no surprise that many districts are facing referendums in the upcoming elections. In fact, 91 school districts are to be found on the April 2nd ballots across the state.
My motivation for submitting my candidacy stems from the desire to create a trusting and working relationship between everyone involved in this great small school district. This includes the administration, teachers and faculty. The parents, community members, tax payers and local supportive businesses. When everyone is truly transparent, the school district and community will thrive.
Rustin Whitney
Personal Background:
Daughter Leah Whitney, 10 years old
Why are you qualified to serve:
I believe I am qualified to serve because I’ve lived in the district my entire life and my family has been apart of the board in past years.
What is the biggest issue in the race/election:
I don’ have any issues with this race/election. I’m running to be involved with the school district/ community and do my best to see the district succeed for years to come.
Suzanne Trotter
Incumbent
Personal Background:
I am married with three adult children. My husband, myself and our three children are all Juda School alumni. I am proud to serve this community where I was born and raised and also to raise a family of my own.
Why are you qualified to serve:
I have been on the Juda School Board for about 9-10 years and I have learned a great deal about school finance, policy and curriculum. I have also learned how important it is to listen and to communicate, both of which are important aspects to the position. I don’t walk a day in the shoes of our administration, staff or students, so it’s important that we as Board members take the time to listen, learn and understand. So, I not only have experience as it relates to being a Board member, but I also have raised my family in this district.
What is the biggest issue in the race/election:
I think the word “issue” could have a bad connotation. I believe that what is most important is that we continue to strive for excellence, as a whole, of course, but also each member of the team individually, too. It takes a village! We want to continue to provide an excellent place for our students to learn and grow and feel confident and ready to embrace the world when they graduate and leave our doors for the last time as a student. Part of our role as board members is to continually do everything necessary and possible to give each student the very best opportunities available. It’s also important to make sure that our administration and staff feel supported. Again, it takes a village, so everyone needs to have all the tools at the ready (finance, policy, curriculum, etc.) in order to provide the path forward. Teamwork is vital.
