Grand Forks School Board candidate: Margaret S. Brack

Note to readers: The answers to survey questions below have not been edited in any way. They were provided as is by the candidates.

Name: Margaret S. Brack

Occupation: Teacher, Office Manager, Organist & Choir Director

Age: 51

Family: Married 24 years, 4 children; 23, 21,18 & 15

Leadership experience: I have served on several boards, steering committees and advisory councils over the past 20 years.

Why are you seeking a seat on the School Board?

I would really like to be part of the process that continues and supports the excellent standards that are held in the Grand Forks School System.

What is the biggest issue the School Board is facing?

Teacher compensation and future enrollment and how that concerns the budget and the resources for the students.

How would you deal with or approach that issue?

I would work with the School Board in supporting increases for teacher salaries and resources. I would also welcome the chance to help the Board continue its discernment of budget issues and assist in the decision making process of prioritizing the needs of our changing population.

Are School District resources being used to maximum efficiency? What, if any, improvements would you explore or recommend?

What, if any, improvements would you explore or recommend? I believe the Board has been using the School District resources wisely. I would use my expertise to support the best way to maximize the recent 19 million dollar investment into the arts in the schools. The new theaters and rehearsal spaces will allow teachers and students to raise the bar even higher. The community will be better able to experience and enjoy the creativity and polish of their performances. I would use my 40+ years in music and the theater to be a sounding board and guide for projects in the schools and for the community.

What is your ideal classroom size, and why?

I believe a classroom of around 20-24 students allows teachers to reach a large enough group, yet not be overwhelmed. It also has enough students to be able to work in groups and to learn how to interact better. If the classes are smaller the teachers can easily adapt their methods without jeopardizing their teaching style.