Phil Stracke, who is one of four candidates running for the two at-large IKM-Manning School Board seats, says an attitude shift is needed from community and district leaders on both sides of the facility improvement issue. Stracke, of rural Manilla, is a farmer and also owns and operates Thomson Stracke Implement. Running for school board was something he had considered in previous elections, and Stracke explains what led him to seek a seat at the table.
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According to Stracke, the stark contrast between voters who cast ballots in September for or against the $19.95 million bond referendum really highlights how wide the divide has grown. He says part of the problem is that some questions about how the improvement plan was developed are still unanswered.
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Stracke adds that a good education begins and ends with great teachers, which IKM-Manning is fortunate to have many. However, he is concerned the district’s curriculum is shifting away from the fundamental subjects.
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Stracke tells voters that he is upfront about his stance on issues and does not have an ulterior motive for wanting to serve on the board. He simply wants the district, students and stakeholders to succeed now and in the future.
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The other candidates running for the two at-large seats include: incumbent, Luke Potthoff of Manning; incumbent, Sam Hansen of Manning; and Mike Blum of Manning. Hansen told Carroll Broadcasting he was unavailable for an interview, and Blum did not respond to several attempts to reach him. Results from IKM-Manning’s and other races on the Nov. 2 ballot will be covered on-air and online at www.carrollbroadcasting.com or the Carroll Broadcasting mobile app.