Next week, on April 7th, the Lafayette County voters will be heading to the polls. There will be three candidates running for the Lafayette County C-1 School Board. Please meet Mr. Matt Parks, our last candidate to be introduced.

1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself. How long have you lived within our school district? What experience do you have for this position?

My name is Matt Parks. I have been married to my wife, Jennifer Parks, for 18 years. We have 4 amazing children, William (13), Landon (11), Michael (10), and Joseph (7). We have been residents of Higginsville for 12 years.I am a founding partner and CFO of Choice Engineering, which specializes in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering services for commercial and industrial facilities. Being the son of a retired teacher as well as the spouse of a kindergarten teacher here at Lafayette County C-1, has given me significant appreciation for educators, students, and administrators.

2) Why are you running for the school board on April 7th?

Our school is facing significant challenges, and I want to be part of the team addressing them. I hope my professional and personal resources can help identify, prioritize, and accomplish the goals that benefit our district.

3)What do you see as the biggest challenge facing our district right now?

Retaining and supporting quality educators is a significant challenge. While issues such as declining enrollment and government regulations will continue to impact our district, we need to maintain focus on the district’s main purpose, educating students.

4) What are your top three priorities if elected?

Ensuring financial integrity, engaging and involving parents in all portions of the educational process, and empowering the school board to be more active in oversight.

5) How should the district measure student success beyond test scores?

That at all stages of development, students are equipped for the next stage of academic and personal success.

6) How can the district better prepare students for college, trade school, or the workforce?

Offering a wider variety of leveled courses to meet the needs of students. Help students to explore and pursue skills that cover a broad range of potential post education paths.

7) How should the board support staff morale?

Be more interactive with staff to ensure they feel valued and respected as highly qualified educators. Provide direct avenues for feedback from the staff and utilize this information to assist in evaluating the district’s goals.

8) How should the district address bullying and mental health concerns?

Help students get engaged in extra-circular activities to develop relationships, while encouraging their educational goals and passions.

9) How can the board improve communication with parents and taxpayers?

Be more transparent and engaging. Information should be readily available and posted in a consistent method. The efforts to create subject videos and notices on the impact of upcoming state regulations is a great step in the right direction.

10) What makes you the best candidate for this position?

As a parent who will have children at the elementary, middle, and high school levels next year, I am invested in the quality of education in our district. I believe my professional skillsets will provide a unique perspective to the school board. I look forward to opportunity to serve to the best of my ability.