Our Schools, Our Communities, Our Future
By Trenton Horn, Superintendent of Schools, USD 431
On Tuesday, November 3, Kansans will head to the polls for the general election. With all the political advertisements, debates, and disagreements that accompany elections, it can be easy to lose sight of how the decisions made by elected officials affect our everyday lives, including the education of our children.
As superintendent of USD 431, I see firsthand how decisions made in Topeka and Washington influence what happens in our schools. While our local Board of Education makes many important decisions, a significant portion of what we do is influenced by state and federal funding, legislation, and regulations.
One of the biggest challenges we face is balancing the needs of our students with the responsibility of being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. Our Board spends considerable time reviewing budgets, evaluating expenses, and looking for ways to operate more efficiently. We must consider everything from staffing and transportation to technology, building maintenance, and special education services.
What many people may not realize is that some of the financial challenges facing our district are largely beyond our local control.
Special education is one example. We are required to provide appropriate services to students with disabilities, and we are committed to doing so. However, when state and federal funding falls short of covering those costs, the difference must come from other district resources. That means fewer dollars are available to support other educational needs.
This is especially challenging for smaller, rural districts like ours. We have many of the same responsibilities as larger districts, but fewer students over which to spread those costs. Maintaining quality educational opportunities while keeping expenses under control requires careful planning and sometimes difficult decisions.
School funding is not the only issue affected by elections. Elected officials also make decisions about school safety, student assessments, graduation requirements, and numerous other policies that influence our classrooms.
I understand that people have different political beliefs and opinions about how these issues should be addressed. That is part of what makes our democratic process important. My purpose in writing this article is not to support any particular candidate or political party, but rather to encourage everyone to be informed and participate.
As you consider your choices in this election, I encourage you to look beyond campaign advertisements and take time to learn where candidates stand on issues important to you. Public education, taxes, agriculture, healthcare, and economic development all have a significant impact on communities like Hoisington.
One thing I have always appreciated about small communities is the pride people take in their schools and their neighbors. We may not agree on every issue, but I believe we share a common desire to see our children succeed and our community remain strong.
Regardless of your political beliefs, I encourage you to exercise your right to vote on November 3. The decisions made in this election will affect our communities and schools long after the campaign signs come down.
Our schools, our children, and our communities are worth taking the time to make an informed decision.