Keliher calls for changes to educational system
She supports more business, community partnerships with District 194
Keliher
The current educational system is not sustainable, according to Lakeville Area School Board Chair Judy Keliher, who is running for re-election this fall.
“The biggest challenge is how to continue providing a high level of academic achievement while making a transition to a system that is fiscally more sustainable than we have today,” said Keliher, who has been a board member since 1997 and board chair since 2007. “It’s not just our district, but school districts in general.”
The best schools adapt to change and innovate, she added.
Keliher said she wants more partnerships with businesses, which would be a way to give students more “hands-on, real-life opportunities” and ultimately prepare them for the modern, competitive workplace. She also mentioned that she thought apprenticeships with various trades were also a way to offer innovative learning.
“Not all go on to two- and four-year colleges,” Keliher said. “We can offer a variety of opportunities for all different kinds of learners.”
Keliher, a 26-year resident of Lakeville, has raised her children in the district. Her daughter Katie currently attends North High School and her three sons are all graduates of the district. She also has nieces and nephews in the schools.
She is currently a district sales manager for Staples. She was previously involved in the operation of a family hardware store.
Among the highlights of her previous terms on the board, Keliher pointed to last year’s contract negotiations with new Superintendent Lisa Snyder. The result was a contract leaner than the one previously negotiated with former Superintendent Gary Amoroso.
Marketing to new students and retaining current ones are also important to Keliher. The district’s revenues from the state are tied to a per-pupil dollar amount.
“We need to let families know they don’t have to leave the Lakeville school district if they want online learning,” she said, giving an example of a marketing message.
Keliher currently serves on the Gifted Advisory Council, Special Education Advisory Committee and Legislative Committee. She is also an active member of the Lakeville Rotary Club.
“From a business perspective and community perspective and as parent,” Keliher said, “nothing to me is more important than having a solid educational foundation for the community. That’s where I want to give my time.”
There are six people running for three School Board seats this fall.
