Please vote on Tuesday May 21
By Andrew Harris
SUN: Would you be agreeable to merging with smaller school districts like Scio, Whitesville, and Andover ? Why or why not?
DANNHEIM: I understand the desire to maintain our local school’s pride. Our schools are not just buildings; they are symbols of our generational community. Preserving this pride is important to me and would be my initial stance. However, I also believe in fiscal responsibility. If lowering or maintaining the current tax levy is possible by merging with a smaller school district, it’s a proposition that needs serious consideration. Ultimately, the decision of merging with other school districts resides with the residents of these towns. Their concerns must be heard and considered before any decision-making is acted upon.
SUN: Wellsville has low test scores compared to the rest of the region according to the latest state reports. There are infrastructure improvements needed in the schools and buildings and grounds (including athletics) and we have a lot of teaching openings. There is also a budget to be done. What are your priorities as a board member?
DANNHEIM: Equipping our children with the skills and knowledge to excel and contribute to society is a top priority for me. While low test scores are indeed an important indicator, they shouldn’t be the sole measure of our educational success. Recruiting and retaining qualified educators is vital for maintaining a high standard of education in our district. This is an issue that requires our utmost attention and priority.
SUN: How do you explain the historic number of candidates for a volunteer school board spot ? What is the number one reason you gathered signatures and filed a petition?
DANNHEIM: There are numerous personal reasons why there’s a significant number of candidates willing to volunteer for the school board. I believe one key factor is the availability of three open seats, presenting a unique opportunity for candidates like myself to get elected and make a meaningful difference in our community. Additionally, there’s a shared concern among us about the perceived decline in the quality of education our children are receiving. We are driven by a desire to positively impact this decline and ensure that our students receive the best possible education. These factors, coupled with a commitment to community service, have motivated many individuals, including myself, to gather signatures and file petitions for these open seats.
