Mingus Union School Board Election
There are six candidates running for three seats on the Mingus Union High School District Governing Board: James Ariola, Taylor Bell, Ashley Koepnick, Rev. Frank Nevarez, incumbent Carol Anne Teague and Joe Wegwert, Ph.D. Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 5
Candidate: Ashley Koepnick
Age: 33
Time in the Verde Valley: “I have lived in the Verde Valley for 30 years.”
What is your current or past profession: “I am a homemaker, raising three young boys.”
Q: Why are you qualified to serve on the board?
A: “I think a school boards member’s job is to represent the taxpayers. As a Mingus [Union HighSchool] alumna and mom of young children, the success of our local high school is of the utmost importance to me.
“Running a household and budgeting finances has made me well-versed in analyzing a variety of factors.”
Q: What are three specific items or policies that you are running on?
A: “Student safety — working with staff, the school resource officer and students to ensure a safe learning and working environment.
“Academic excellence — working alongside teachers to help our students to continue to strive for the best academically.
“Parent involvement — open communication with parents so they understand that there are many opportunities to serve in their child’s academic growth.”
Q: How would you work to improve teacher recruitment and retention?
A: “Providing adequate support to new hires. I would love to foster an open communication policy where all teachers and staff feel valued and listened to.”
Q: Last year the board voted to suspend a capital bond. Moving forward, would you be in favor of a capital bond override? Why or why not?
A: “Yes, I would be in favor of a capital bond override, leaving the final decision in the hands of the taxpayers. If the override passes, my priority would be to ensure budget oversight and responsible spending, making sure that funds are allocated efficiently to benefit our students and school.”
