I write to share with you my decision to seek re-election to the Lakota Board of Education this November. Time has not changed my strong and uncompromising passion for the highest quality Lakota education and my commitment to the students and residents of this community. Many of you have convinced me that the experience and leadership I offer would continue to be a benefit to Lakota.

Like other businesses and organizations, Lakota is facing difficult financial times. Reductions in state funding and new unfunded state-mandated requirements are all hitting at the end of Lakota’s levy cycle, creating unprecedented financial challenges. Addressing these issues, while having compassionate understanding for our neighbors in economic stress, will make the next few years critical ones for Lakota. I am committed to being a voice of reason in the tough times as well as the good ones. You can continue to count on me to balance conservative fiscal policy with the diverse needs of all of Lakota’s students.

Lakota has much to celebrate that has occurred during my tenure on the board:
• Meeting academic goals that moved the district from a state designation of "Effective" to "Excellent" and now "EXCELLENT WITH DISTINCTION", becoming the largest district in the state to do so.
• Continuously remaining below the state average in cost per pupil .
• Managing growth of nearly 1500 students since 2005 with no additional state or local funding.

With experience comes a certain tempered pragmatism about what one can appropriately promise to the voting public. You can count on me to be realistic and forthcoming about what can be accomplished. More of my time this fall will be spent working on Lakota's challenges and less in making campaign promises. My priorities include:
• Engaging the community in priority-setting for our operating budget and cost containment.
• Working with the Board to set clear expectations for organizational success.
• Pushing for strong objective evaluation systems for both programming and personnel.

I have been fortunate to serve with outstanding Board members in the past and recognize that other quality individuals are also seeking to serve Lakota. Experience and new ideas are always a great complement to each other.

Thank you for your past support of Lakota. I would greatly appreciate your help and financial support during the next six weeks. Please consider contributing to my campaign in either time, talent or funding. Together, we will ensure continued excellence in our schools and a brighter future for our children and our community.

Sincerely,

Joan Powell