Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
One of the two candidates for the Wawasee School Board District 2 seat responded to questions posed to them for the November election.
Jason Ughetti provided his answers. Kim Nguyen was reached out to but did not respond.
Ughetti was asked to respond to three questions in 250 words or less.
1. What is your background and why are you running for the Wawasee School Board?
Ughetti: My professional background is in local government where I currently serve as a Zoning Compliance Officer for the City of Elkhart. My work involves interpreting and enforcing policies, working with other departments, working with the community and making fair and consistent decisions that affect the public.
I am running for the Wawasee School Board because I believe our schools play a vital role in shaping our communities' future. I want to help establish better communication and transparency with the community and the district's staff members between the School Board and district leadership.
Although I did not grow up in the Wawasee district, I believe I can bring a fresh outside perspective and an independent voice to the Board. I do not have issues asking tough questions, listening to different viewpoints and looking into existing practices with an open mind all while maintaining common sense leadership.
2. If elected, what are some of the goals you would like to accomplish in the next four years at Wawasee Schools?
Ughetti: My primary goal would be to ensure the students first and foremost are provided the opportunities and best resources possible to succeed both while during their schooling and after graduation that will benefit the district and community.
I would also prioritize listening to district staff, district leadership, parents and students. Working closely with teachers will provide valuable insight into what they feel is working and any challenges that may exist.
Finally, I want to support common sense spending. Using the resources that are available to make smart financial decisions that best benefit the taxpayer and students and providing clear, understandable and transparent financial reports for district staff and taxpayers.
3. What do you think the role of the school board should be within the school corporation?
Ughetti: The role of the school board is to establish policy, approve and oversee the budget, and hold the superintendent responsible for results. Boards should avoid micromanaging the daily responsibilities of the superintendent and district administration but maintain oversight of district leadership performance. The board's role is to also make common sense decisions that best serve the Wawasee students, district staff, and the community and taxpayers.
