Byron School Board

What is the most important thing you want voters to know about yourself as they head to the polls next week? What can you provide that other candidates cannot?
Limit of 250 words
Britton Avant
As Byron voters head to the polls, I want them to know that I am fully committed to serving our schools and community. I have an asset that is categorically unattainable for most: time. I have the privilege of not being limited by a traditional 9-to-5 schedule. We are currently in a crisis, and simply having the will to fix our problems might not be enough. I am not only willing; I am able to spend the time necessary to pull us up by our bootstraps and maintain the incredible education we have come to know and expect in Byron.
Having volunteered hundreds of hours in our schools, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of our teachers and the challenges they face. This experience has deepened my commitment to ensuring that our district provides a supportive environment for students and staff.
With my eyes wide open to the responsibilities ahead, I aim to usher in a new era for the Byron School Board—an era of accountability, accessibility, and creativity. I support a ‘YES’ vote on the operating levy, as it’s essential for setting our schools up for success. Like many of you, I share frustrations with current leadership, but I am optimistic about our path forward. I vote ‘YES’ today with a willingness to revisiting the duration, amount, and any other possible adjustments to lessen the financial burden on taxpayers as the discovery process and audit conclude. This will provide necessary healing and a clear path forward for our community.
Alisha Eiken
Less than one year ago, I finished 20 months of active cancer treatment. I am grateful to report my cancer was cured. That experience was clarifying and changed me. It made me both more gentle AND more intolerant of nonsense (and maybe even ruthless).
I have been holding Dr. Neubeck and our current school board accountable for many months by emailing them, making formal data requests, consulting with the MN Department of Education and the MN Auditor’s Office, and talking to the media. I want voters to know that if elected, I will continue to hold Dr. Neubeck accountable. Returning to financial stability needs to be our #1 goal and an ongoing priority for our board.
A lot of incredible work goes on inside the walls of our schools. Our administrators, educators, and school staff work tirelessly and creatively to provide our kids with a wonderful experience and prepare them for their futures. They need to feel supported, heard, and respected to continue their work.
Voters, please support the operating levy. If we elect qualified candidates, I’m confident our board will be capable of responsibly managing the funds a levy would provide, and I know we can continue to have an exemplary school district.
And please elect qualified school board candidates. We need board members who have the skills to dig us out of this crisis. I would be honored to earn your vote and work on behalf of your best interests, and most importantly, your kids’ best interests.
Nadia Poluhina
I am a parent with children attending Byron Schools, bringing over 15 years of experience in Finance and board governance. I have a strong track record in evaluating and managing financial performance, as well as providing strategic oversight and leadership. I am deeply invested in the success of our schools, the well-being of our children, and the strength of our community.
I would be honored to earn your vote and grateful if you encourage your neighbors and friends to consider their voting choices carefully. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.
Lisa Jessen
I want people to know that despite what some say on social media, I am working hard to make sure that we communicate better, are more transparent, and that I am standing up for what is right, even though I may be in the minority. And I will always vote my conscience, and not take the easy road if it is not the correct choice for the district. We CAN turn this district around & I’m confident the new board will be up for that challenge as well.
If given the opportunity, I can use my Communications background & expertise to communicate to the public through any and all channels available to keep everyone up to date on the Byron School District.
Kelli Crary
Did not answer.
James-Duke D. Dieterle
Did not answer.