Gwen Goretsas is an 18-year resident of Rush City, married with two children (15 and 17) and is employed with Hewlett-Packard. She has a masters in chemistry from Michigan State University. She currently serves on the school board.

1) Why are you running for a seat on the school board?

I have the highest respect for the Rush City School District and the personnel we employ - they are committed to our children and ensuring that Rush City does the best it can to provide quality education. Hopefully, my service on the board will help contribute to that effort.

2) What do you see as the role of the school board and the school board member? Do you have the time to commit to the position?

The School Board plays the role of supporting the administration and district personnel by ensuring we have the facilities, equipment and financial stability so they can focus on providing a quality education.

Although the time commitment can be significant, I have been able to meet those requirements the last 4 years.

3) What does the Rush City School District look like to you today?

We are currently in good shape regarding our enrollment, facilities and finances.

Where do you see the school district 10-20 years from now?

We will have to continue to monitor area growth carefully to ensure we are planning and adapting to the changing needs of the community.

4) Do you think it is useful to track students after graduation to see if they received the training they needed here in Rush City to help them with post graduate and future employment endeavors?

I would have to see a cost-benefit analysis to make that determination. The current monitoring and testing we do has established that we are providing a quality education.

Do you think a school district should be largely responsible for preparing students for life in the ìrealî world?

The school system can only play a part.Ý Parents, extended family, and other community resources all contribute to preparing our kids to be successful adults.

5) What is the most unique aspect (or greatest asset) of the Rush City School District that sets it apart from other districts. What are other strengths within the district?

Our people . . .not only those that work in the district, but also the contributions of volunteers and the many organizations that routinely donate their time and money to provide opportunities for our children.

6) Finally, do you see areas that need improvement? What are they and how do you think improvement might be accomplished?

We need to look carefully at how we fund the Family Center and Recreation Center. It is critical that we are supporting Early Childhood Education and the other family support activities that the Family Center provides.Ý Funding in this area has become challenging the last few years and the new School Board will have to focus on ensuring these programs can continue.Ý The Rec Center and pool has also presented significant financial challenges to the district - we need to get more creative to ensure it does not become a financial burden to the district.

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