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Candidate Profile: Abbey (LaBarre) Wellemeyer
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Brodhead School Board

There are three candidates running for two spots on the Brodhead school board: Incumbent Mike Krupke and newcomers Abbey Wellemeyer and David Wickline.

Position sought: Brodhead school board

Age: 35

City/town of residence: Brodhead

Family: Married to Benjamin Wellemeyer; daughter, 3, son, 3 months.

Education: I'm a graduate of the Brodhead Schools, the UW-Madison School of Education (BS Education) and The Evergreen State College with a Master's degree in Public Administration, Public Policy emphasis.

Occupation: I am currently a stay-at-home-parent to our two children.

Previous elected positions held: When we lived in Flathead County, MT I served on the Evergreen Water Sewer Board.



What are the top issues facing this district/municipality and how would you work to resolve them?

The most familiar issues include facility problems and common funding uncertainties. I am confident the district has done and will continue to commit to ensuring the safety of its students; that is a priority. As for the current and impending fiscal realities that most school districts across the state are facing, these may be presenting an important opportunity for the district to reconnect and harness its vast community resources.



What are other key issues facing the district/municipality, and how would you work to resolve them?

The current climate of budgetary constraints obviously pose many issues, especially for smaller districts like Brodhead. Continued focus on retaining quality teachers and programming is going to be crucial. It will be imperative to work collaboratively with staff to determine the best course of action. This district is already doing a good job of building on staff strengths; I would like to see this continue. I would also encourage more board and community participation inside the schools and classrooms.



Why are you the best candidate for this office?

I respect the office and the potential power that it holds. I personally value education and appreciate the difference that it has made in my life and the lives of those around me. This is a value I would like to pass on through my actions and interactions, as a member I could certainly expand my scope. I am especially invested in this district position because I spent my first 18 years of life in Brodhead, and now my children will do the same. Of course I want to present them with the same opportunities I had, and then some, if possible. Also, I am the only candidate in this race, from my understanding, that has spent time teaching in a classroom, rigorously studied pedagogy, and has participated in the creation of legislation, law and its administration on a state level. Finally, I value communication and discourse; I want the district constituents to be involved in shaping our future.