Five candidates are running for two, four-year terms in the May 6 Clarkston School Board election. Candidates were provided identical questionnaires covering school issues.

Susan Boatman; my husband and I moved to Independence Township 19 years ago. My two children were educated in the Clarkston schools and they are continuing their education in college. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master of Business Administration degree in Management from Wayne State University. I have 19-years experience working in Information Technology, including 11 years as a department manager in the banking industry.
Why do you want to be elected?
I would like to be elected to the school board to allow me to combine my interest in public education with my commitment to community service. During 15 years of volunteering in the Clarkston school district I have worked one on one with children, collaborated with teachers, helped provide PTA educational enrichment programs, advocated for change at building and district levels as well as advocated for legislation to benefit public schools.
Experience?
I have served as treasurer and other positions on the PTA boards of Bailey Lake Elementary, Sashabaw Middle School, Clarkston High School and the Clarkston PTA Council. I served two years as president of the Clarkston PTA Council. I was a member of the Parent Advisory Team for eight years. I have sat on various district committees including the Field Trip Task Force, the Fundraising Task Force, the CHS Blue Ribbon Committee, and the Facilities Committee.
In 2007, I received the Outstanding Service Award from the Administration Building. In the business world, I have experience in developing work plans, preparing annual budgets, conducting performance appraisals and hiring staff. My extensive experience in decision making and problem solving would serve me well as a school board trustee.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
Clarkston is striving to become a premier school district and it is well on its way to achieving that goal. The district provides programs that address the needs of all students whether it is academic, social, athletic or artistic in nature. The district has well thought out policies that need to be consistently enforced.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
We must ensure that our educational tax dollars are getting tangible results. Federal and state education guidelines are in place to ensure that all students are taught certain subjects, that their achievement can be measured, and that failure to meet these standards will result in specific consequences to school districts.
The new state graduation requirements were enacted because of the great disparity among graduation requirements in Michigan school districts. Students are being accepted into college but many are not graduating. Not being academically prepared for college is obviously a major contributor to the high dropout rate. The implementation of more rigorous classes will present challenges for students and school administration alike.
The focus on academics will continue to grow due to lower demand for unskilled labor and higher competition from around the world for the jobs that pay well.
The federal No Child Left Behind legislation institutes accountability but its grading system, along with other issues, is in need of improvement. Schools are graded on their ability to improve their standardized test results every year. But a school that has been getting consistently high test scores may not be able to show an improvement and will receive a poor Annual Yearly Progress grade and possibly lose funding in spite of their excellent performance.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
Schools prepare children for adulthood. They have the task of educating children, academically and socially. Schools provide an excellent arena for developing social skills and applying the important values that children have been taught at home. When social skills are lacking, schools work with students to develop appropriate behaviors.
Budget priorities?
The Clarkston School Board and the administration are currently working to create a balanced budget. They are looking at ways to increase revenues as well as deciding what expenses will have to be cut. I support their goal of keeping cuts as far away as possible from the students? learning environment. If it saves money, I would support moving the school election to November.What challenges do students face today?
Recent state legislation will require students to take more advanced classes in high school. To allow students to continue to be successful, more rigorous material will be cascaded down to the lower grades. This legislation was largely driven by a desire to make our graduates more competitive in college and the job market. Students must understand there is increasing competition for well paying jobs. If students want to attend college, they may need community service, extra-curricular activities, work experience and high test scores. Receiving a college degree today is similar in importance to having a high school diploma just a few decades ago. As a school board member, I can’t change the competitive environment our children face. I can only push our schools to offer as many opportunities for students as is economically feasible throughout their scholastic career. These should include strong academic programs, clubs, and intramural sports as well as educational and behavioral support programs.
Clarkston school successes?
Clarkston Schools is striving to become a premier school district. I support the district’s efforts to strengthen academics and offer different learning opportunities for our students. All day kindergarten, OSMTech, the International Academy and the start of an International Baccalaureate program are wonderful options for students. I would like to see foreign language offered at the elementary schools.
Goals?
My goals as a school board member are to be a diligent steward of public money as well as a promoter of educational practices that prepare our students for acceptance into higher education or the competitive job market that lies ahead.
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I have the knowledge, experience and skill to be a school board trustee. I believe in gaining a thorough understanding of an issue before I vote on it. I intend to put the interests of our students first whenever I vote. I hope you will support me in this endeavor on May 6th.

Jeff Broughton, 20-year resident of the community, single with two children, currently work for EDS as a global program manager and for the Michigan Army National Guard as a colonel.
Why do you want to be elected?
I am running for the School Board because I have a great passion for the children of this community, and the education they receive from the Clarkston schools. I am grateful that my children have received a world-class education from the teachers and administrators of this district. Election to the Board of Education allows me to serve the district and the community in a way that best leverages my leadership, management and communication skills.
Experience?
I have 15 years experience with Information Technology management, most recently as a Global Program Manager for EDS. I also have 24 years of military experience, as a colonel in the Michigan Army National Guard. These positions have given me valuable experience leading large, complex organizations similar to the Clarkston School District. I have also gained the know-how with budget management and strategic planning that will serve the board and the community well. I have also served as a PTA member since 1995, and have been a volunteer for numerous school activities.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
Clarkston is one of the elite school districts in the state. This is demonstrated by the multiple Blue Ribbon awards, and the commitment to excellence shown by Clarkston’s teachers and administrators. As a board member, I would work toward developing a balanced budget that sustains the district’s commitment to excellence.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
I support these guidelines as a way of ensuring that the students of the district are making satisfactory progress, and as a report card for how the district is performing. The challenge we face is that these mandates are not supported with sufficient state and federal funding. I will work with legislators and other school boards to help our lawmakers understand the impact of these mandates on the district, and encourage them to provide the funding necessary to fully implement them.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
The most important role of school is to educate children for the world they live in. I believe the primary responsibility for children’s social skills is with the parents. If the school has a responsibility for socialization, it is to allow children to practice those skills in a socially acceptable manner.
Budget priorities?
My budget priority is to keep as much of the budget in the classrooms as possible, and limit the district’s administrative overhead costs. Roughly 85 percent of the current district expenditures are for people cost, so we must look at ways to reduce this cost without affecting the educators and support staff who so ably teach our children today.
What challenges do students face today?
A key challenge for students is to learn and grow in a safe environment. I will support this by continuing our partnerships with local law enforcement and community groups to provide the violence-free, drug-free environment so important to that growth.
Clarkston school successes?
The district has been successful in maintaining a deserved reputation as an elite district. I would like to see this expanded by seeing continued improvement of our MEAP performance across the district.
Goals?
My goal is to leave the district in better shape than when I was elected to the board.
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I made the decision last year to run for the School Board. Since making that decision, I have attended all but two board meetings. I have become familiar with the issues facing the board, and the steps the board is taking to resolve them. By doing this, I am uniquely qualified among the non-incumbent candidates to immediately step in and make a positive contribution to the board.

Five candidates are running for two, four-year terms in the May 6 Clarkston School Board election. Candidates were provided identical questionnaires covering school issues.

Brian L. Kitchin, married to Kelly with an 11 year old, Chelsea, who attends Sashabaw Middle School. I am retired from General Motors Truck and Bus. I have been a resident of Clarkston for 9 years. Before that I was born and raised in Lake Orion. I am a Viet Nam Era veteran.
Why do you want to be elected?
I feel I can bring to the Board something that is missing, from Washington D.C. to the classrooms. That is some old-fashioned common sense.
Experience?
None. But I don’t feel that should be considered a great handicap. All you have to do is look around at our career politicians at all levels to see that they are the main problem in this country, state and county.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
I feel we are fortunate to have many professionals working here. We have some of the greatest teachers in the State. When Mrs. K.C. Leh was the principal of Pine Knob Elementary, she knew where every child was at all times. That is the type of dedication that you can’t buy with a salary.
I have great concerns of the new science curriculum as well as some of the old. I am not interested in indoctrination, but education. Many textbooks are marketed for California, which has the largest pupil population, so much of the curriculum caters to them. I feel their views and schools are more interested in making good little left-wing activists instead of well-rounded, free-thinking adults.
I think our sports programs speak for themselves, but the focus should be education for all children who want it.
This would be the last May election. ALL elections would be in November where we can get a legitimate consensus. Not the laughingstock we have now. (Superintendent) Dr. Al Roberts has to be led kicking and screaming anytime we ask for the simplest changes. The post-Labor Day start and November elections are to name a few. We aren’t smart enough to realize how difficult these decisions are, apparently. They speak from their mountaintop and us cattle just look up with a stupid look and let the administration and union run us over.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
That is just what they are, unfounded mandates. The state took reading, ‘riting and ‘rithmatic and changed it to Rigor, Relative and Relationship. Hello? That is an example of somebody with a little too much book learning and no common sense. Do they realize that it makes no sense to the average hard working Joe and Jane Blow? Just what in Sam Hill is that suppose to mean? It means someone is trying to baffle the state with ridiculous phrases to justify their unneeded level of bureaucracy. A job I can see could be eliminated tomorrow without affecting the schools one iota.
The No Child Left Behind should be gone over and ANYTHING not funded by the federal government should be eliminated. In my opinion anything drafted by Sen. Ted Kennedy shouldn’t be anywhere near my child. His egalitarian utopia doesn’t exist outside his Mahogany paneled office. As a board member I would lead the fight to remove what we don’t want, need or use of this program.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
I think the Powers-that-be feel parents don’t have the time any more to properly teach values and morals. I think this is a dangerous concept. Personally, I feel we should teach adding, subtracting, provable sciences without agendas, reading and writing. Throw in Civics and Government and leave the rest to the parents. Right or wrong, that is their job. Not the schools. When schools are blackmailed to teach certain curriculums, either by the government or the Michigan Education Association, it can only lead to a curriculum that doesn’t take the interest of the children or the parents into account.
When a child never heard a word about Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7 in school but we sing a 20-minute song about Kwanzaa, a holiday founded by a convicted terrorist and felon that celebrates racism, separatism, and Marxism, I think we have a major problem with political correctness that threatens our entire education system.
We have fifth graders reading about throwing paint on people who wear fur. They don’t use energy to make us the greatest Nation on earth but they waste energy. These are some of the problems I see when we try to let the schools socialize our children.
Science instruction should develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students. Real-world applications enable students to understand the relevance of what they are learning. Further, active learning promotes intellectual growth. The MEECS curriculum relies heavily on passive instruction, which doesn’t foster independent learning or critical thinking. Our students would benefit more if allowed to explore issues without indoctrination. Let them draw their own conclusions on such issues as land use, climate change and the use of nonrenewable fuels.
Every MEECS unit is prefaced with statements underscoring the balanced and science-based nature of the materials. However, the materials are not balanced. They promulgate a viewpoint, one that clearly favors centralized control and decision-making over scientific investigation and public debate.
Charles Bacon, Ph.D., is professor of physics and chemistry at Ferris State University and coauthor of ‘DO SOMETHING: The Art and Practice of Project-Based, Active Learning? and ‘A Guide to Connect Learning to Performance.?
This text is part of the larger publication: Michigan Education Report (2007-04).
Budget priorities?
First is education at the classroom level. We should close the Oakland Intermediate School District tomorrow and get rid of 600 bureaucrats. This will save the county $280 million a year. Follow some of the Mackinac Policy Center’s recommendations. One is to close the OISD. This will free up many funds to keep the two main priorities, classrooms and transportation. In a district like ours, buses are necessary. We have 36 square miles that we need to cover to get our kids to school. Period.
You ask who will take over the job when OISD closes? Well, any administration that has an office of Communication and Marketing, like they all do, can axe that job and give them the responsibility of overseeing the work the OISD did before. Should be simple to do.
Contracts have to be negotiated from the view that teachers work for Clarkston Schools, not the MEA. We will offer them a fair contract based on performance and everything has to be on the table, including insurance and pensions. We need to look at tenure. Teachers should be well compensated but we have to be able to remove ones not meeting our standards. In our schools, I feel only a very few would be affected. I spent 30 years at General Motors and believe me, I have seen job cuts without affecting productivity. At first, it is always resisted, but they usually work. We had to cut to stay competitive and our paycheck was based on producing a quality product. Our paychecks didn’t come from the pockets of the taxpayers. I feel we can offer a package any teacher would be happy with but some won’t like it.
Sports are an important part of Clarkston schools and should be kept as long as we can provide our children with the fundamental job, education. I don’t feel we can justify not providing bus service but fielding soccer, football and basketball. As of now, I think it’s a no-brainer. But I would forgo sports if it meant kids not having transportation.
I also would like to make sure every student enrolled is a legal resident or citizen. Anyone sitting at a desk not legally here is no different then an employee embezzling $7,500 per year from the taxpayers. I’m not sure how popular that view is but I don’t care. This country was founded on the rule of law. We need to know if it’s an issue here or not. The recent attorney general’s ruling on drivers? licenses should help with this.
What challenges do students face today?
I truly believe it is a little different but I don’t buy the ideas that it is so drastically different. Kids are kids, some are good and some aren’t. Some kids can be reached and some not. Our responsibility is to try to reach as many as possible but not to risk the many to cater to the few who don’t want to be there. I feel every student is offered a great chance at an education. If they choose not to take advantage of it then all we can do is wish them luck and send them on their way. I don’t feel it’s the taxpayer’s responsibility to pay for alternative education for some who don’t want to participate under the established rules.
Can some at-risk students be helped? Absolutely. But we have to realize there isn’t enough money in the world to help some with a lot of the home environments they come from. We can’t do anything about parents who don’t care.
I believe adults truly know what’s best for children and contrary to what most kids think, they don’t know everything and many of us have had a lot of experience in life in general and we do actually know a thing or two. Is that a popular opinion in today’s, if it feels good do it, culture? Probably not, but that is a fact of life.
Clarkston school successes?
I think our entire school system is a success.
Goals?
To continue to help Clarkston deliver the best education possible to as many children as possible. To allow the board to listen more closely to parents. Parents who work 40-60 hours a week and may be too tired or too frustrated to battle the board and just thinks it’s easier to go with the status quo. To let the parents know that it isn’t all academic elitists who think they’re smarter then them running their children’s education. I am not saying our board is a bunch of elitists but I didn’t see many of them in the shop
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I feel I can bring fresh ideas and views. I consider myself a cross between Ron Paul and Larry the Cable Guy. I don’t take myself too serious but I take the job and responsibility serious. I don’t want to be a career politician. I think our community has many good, hard working people that should step up and run, also. It can be somewhat intimidating entering unknown arenas but it should be fun, too.

Five candidates are running for two, four-year terms in the May 6 Clarkston School Board election. Candidates were provided identical questionnaires covering school issues.

Joe Wauldron, 66, three years in Clarkston, married to Beverly; daughter Jill, who is earning a Masters Degree in Math and subbing in Clarkston schools; two grandchildren, Evan, 5, Ryan, 4?
Why do you want to be elected?
The reason I am running for the Clarkston Board of Education is because of my grandchildren. As with other parents and grandparents, we all want to be sure they are getting the best education to make them better students as they proceed into their later years. By being on the school board, I can make sure the budget is there to provide the tools necessary for all the students? education.?
Experience?
I have attended University of Detroit and received a degree in Business Administration. I have owned and operated two companies for more than 15 years, an interior design and an office supply firm. The office supply firm, I sold to another company and became their president for more than 10 years. I then worked for West International as a financial auditor and then retired after 10 years. As a board member with my experience, I will be able to look at the budget and make decisions to keep it in the black.?
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
I lived in Royal Oak for 35 years, where I participated in the Royal Oak Schools on several of their budget meetings and other committees, before moving to Clarkston. I find the Clarkston Schools and Royal Oak School systems have excellent teachers and administrators. I have met a few of the teachers as well as some of the administrators and found them to be well informed about their positions and what they are looking for in the future.
I have attended a few of the sports’programs, football, baseball, and have watched the younger students play soccer and found also these programs to be very well taught to the students. I found the coaches did an excellent job teaching students the sports they were involved with. I think all teachers and administrators are strong in the knowledge of their fields of endeavor; however, as they go forward, there are lessons to be learned and passed down to the students to make them better in their fields. This is the way they become stronger.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
The No Child Left Behind Act established goals all schools support, including high standards and accountability for the teaching of all students. The act has been around for six years, and funding for this program has gone by the wayside. As the economy falters and monies for these programs are decreased, it is going to be up to the individual school systems to maintain the program and not rely on the federal government for help.
The federal government has given the school systems a tool to help better educate our children and it will be up to the school systems to use those tools. As a school board member, I will ask the teachers and administrators how they feel about the program and use their suggestions to improve on it. The board can only react to what they learn from these people.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
‘The children who are taught in the Clarkston Schools are being educated to be better persons as they grow and learn. It is up to the teachers and administrators to help promote their ideals into these children. The more the parents and educators pass on their knowledge of the world, only then can the children improve on their lives.
Budget priorities?
First, I dislike the word ‘cut? in any type of budget, but it is an evil any organization has to live with when dealing with their budgets. As a board member, I have to look at the budget and ask where we can improve with what resources that are available. The word ‘resource? is very critical in this type of economy.
We need to look at every funding possibility that is made available to the board, such as the lottery, and federal grants. My priority is to keep the budget balanced. Look at programs and purchases and ask, are they really necessary? To ask what needs to be cut out of the budget to make it balance is to look at what the cut will do to the entire program. Will it help balance the budget, will it hurt the education of our children, and will it hurt the community as a whole?
I have seen sports programs being cut and made ‘pay as you play,? but this can hurt students whose families do not have the funds to allow them to play their favorite sport. Do we cut this program? My answer would be no. Do we cut teachers? salaries? Again, I say no. As with any other profession, these people have spent a lot of money to become a professional in their field and need to be paid what the job calls for.
What challenges do students face today?
The challenges of the students today are many. Drugs, gangs and other types of distractions. As a school board member, I will monitor these types of activities and bring it to the board for discussion and make recommendations to eliminate these distractions.
Clarkston school successes?
Clarkston schools have many successes. One of which, I have followed ever since I saw them at one of my Clarkston Rotary meetings, and this is their Robotics program. I was really impressed with what these students have accomplished and I as a board member would encourage all students to become involved with programs of this type. The student clubs that are becoming ever so popular among the students should be expanded. These programs allow the students to relate to other students who they may never have met due to the large student population in the school district.
Goals?
My goal as a school board member would be to keep Clarkston Schools in the forefront of education in the state. This would include keeping informed as to what our legislatures are doing to help in funding Clarkston schools as well as other school districts in Michigan.?
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I have a vast experience with budgets, I have several years of management experience, and I am involved in the community. I am president of Clarkston Area Youth Assistance, vice-chair Oakland County Youth Assistance, Youth Coalition, Mentors and Mentors Plus, and member of the Clarkston Rotary. Because of my experience being on boards and commissions, I am constantly being asked to join and become part of other boards as well, but I try to limit my time, but I seldom say no.

Five candidates are running for two, four-year terms in the May 6 Clarkston School Board election. Candidates were provided identical questionnaires covering school issues.

Joan Patterson, 49, 21 years in community, husband Thomas Patterson, child Jeffrey Patterson, who goes to Clarkston schools; Systems Analyst, Certified Tennis Professional, Business Owner?
Why do you want to be re-elected?
I have enjoyed the challenges and commitment required as both a school board trustee, and this year school board secretary, and would like to continue to serve the community in this manner. I have the time, background, and commitment to help make sure Clarkston schools stand for a rigorous education for the 21st century.
Challenges facing public education, including cuts in funding, mandates from the state and federal government levels, and the difficult financial challenges this state is currently experiencing, are issues that will not be solved quickly or easily. I have the passion, education, dedication, and business background to be your voice on the school board by continuing to listen to and represent your needs.
Experience?
My education, MBA of Information Systems, and work as a systems analyst, consultant, and Certified Tennis Professional, trained me to identify problems and implement solutions through both personal and community involvement. Through other elected and appointed positions I have held, such as president of the Deer Lake Farms Association, and president of the Independence Elementary PTO, I have gained experience in successfully working with diverse groups of people to move toward a common goal of continually improving our schools.
My last four years on the Clarkston School Board has given me background and the knowledge of the school system to challenge the status quo and continue to look for win/win solutions through these tough times. I believe we all need to look within ourselves to ask how we can improve our education system. I will continue to identify opportunities to allow all our children to be successful. I welcome the challenge the school board has ahead of it.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
We have great people and a community that cares. The curriculum and sports programs have served us well. Now we must make changes that will allow our students to be competitive in the 21st century while still carrying on the traditions and values of our community. We must remain open to evaluate changes that may be required to retain our good reputation within and beyond the community.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
The concept of standards for education is a good idea. It provides a base level requirement to evaluate our programs and curriculum. Gravitating our programs down to that base level is not good.
When these standards force teachers to teach to a test, I believe we’ve become too narrow in our expectations for our students. We need to look at the competencies within the schools that exceed the mandated standard, and maintain that difference. Parents want to send their children to schools with superior programs. Good teachers want to teach there, and administrators want to be a part of the management process there. We do not know what the jobs of tomorrow will be but we need to teach our students to be able to think critically and continue to be lifelong learners.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
We are charged with the responsibility to ensure each child has the opportunity to learn and develop into a young adult. For a child to develop, they must feel secure and supported by the environment around them. To create a positive, safe environment, we create and communicate expectations of behavior, and enforce rules and structure to teach kids how to work with people and make a positive contribution to society. It is not the responsibility of the schools to replace the role provided by parents and guardians of our students. Rather, it’s the role to compliment the positive influences provided by the home environment. In situations where that positive environment is apparently lacking, it’s the responsibility of the schools to engage the appropriate social services to help turn the situation around, to positive.?
Budget priorities?
When faced with a limited budget, my yardstick to determine priorities for funding will be the impact a reduction in funding will have on the educational and developmental opportunities available to our students. I also believe we must make sure our elementary students can read, write, and solve math problems. Without these skills, our students? chances’for success are greatly limited.
What challenges do students face today?
There are two answers to this. One is short term, and the other long-term. Long-term, the biggest challenge facing our students today is the change in the Michigan and U.S. economy and the jobs that will be available, and the education those jobs require. The manufacturing economy of our area, state, and country is being assaulted by global influences we have little opportunity to control here in Clarkston. I believe this will continue regardless of any change at the state and federal governmental levels. We must prepare for that eventuality.
Short-term, the challenges are similar to those faced by students historically. There are many opportunities for good students to be ‘knocked off the tracks? by the distractions and negative influences that show themselves everyday. These include loss of family income from a layoff or business failure, negative social pressures, and the overwhelming influence of the speed society operates at today.
As I said above, we who are responsible for the educational processes need to provide the best possible environment and the most appropriate curriculum, foster positive family support, and recognize shortcomings with engagement of appropriate social services.?
Clarkston school successes?
I would like to continue to provide students opportunities in the arts, music, and athletic areas so we can continue to develop the ‘whole child.? It’s good for the students and the schools to have a high graduation rate and good acceptance into college level institutions. It’s also good to have highly competitive athletic teams, robotics, arts and music programs. We need to continue our engagement in programs such as International Baccalaureate and OSMTech, which each foster different skills within our students.
Goals?
To continue to be an advocate for the development of our students; to expand our curriculum to include a foreign language at the elementary level;’to continue my personal development to more effectively provide positive direction for the district; to be open to understand the issues placed before us; to be diligent in my financial responsibility to create a balanced budget for this district; and to focus on student achievement.
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
During the past four years, I have gained knowledge of the workings of Clarkston Schools and a better appreciation of the environment they contribute to. I have leveraged the courses and education options available to school board members to improve my ability to be an advocate for the different constituents in Clarkston. I continue to work within the school as a mentor to our kids. I think I am in touch and knowledgeable about the changes and challenges facing our district, students, teachers, and administrators on a daily basis. I would love to continue my work and move our school system forward.

Susan Boatman; my husband and I moved to Independence Township 19 years ago. My two children were educated in the Clarkston schools and they are continuing their education in college. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master of Business Administration degree in Management from Wayne State University. I have 19-years experience working in Information Technology, including 11 years as a department manager in the banking industry.
Why do you want to be elected?
I would like to be elected to the school board to allow me to combine my interest in public education with my commitment to community service. During 15 years of volunteering in the Clarkston school district I have worked one on one with children, collaborated with teachers, helped provide PTA educational enrichment programs, advocated for change at building and district levels as well as advocated for legislation to benefit public schools.
Experience?
I have served as treasurer and other positions on the PTA boards of Bailey Lake Elementary, Sashabaw Middle School, Clarkston High School and the Clarkston PTA Council. I served two years as president of the Clarkston PTA Council. I was a member of the Parent Advisory Team for eight years. I have sat on various district committees including the Field Trip Task Force, the Fundraising Task Force, the CHS Blue Ribbon Committee, and the Facilities Committee.
In 2007, I received the Outstanding Service Award from the Administration Building. In the business world, I have experience in developing work plans, preparing annual budgets, conducting performance appraisals and hiring staff. My extensive experience in decision making and problem solving would serve me well as a school board trustee.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
No response.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
We must ensure that our educational tax dollars are getting tangible results. Federal and state education guidelines are in place to ensure that all students are taught certain subjects, that their achievement can be measured, and that failure to meet these standards will result in specific consequences to school districts.
The new state graduation requirements were enacted because of the great disparity among graduation requirements in Michigan school districts. Students are being accepted into college but many are not graduating. Not being academically prepared for college is obviously a major contributor to the high dropout rate. The implementation of more rigorous classes will present challenges for students and school administration alike. The focus on academics will continue to grow due to lower demand for unskilled labor and higher competition from around the world for the jobs that pay well.
The federal No Child Left Behind legislation institutes accountability but its grading system, along with other issues, is in need of improvement. Schools are graded on their ability to improve their standardized test results every year. But a school that has been getting consistently high test scores may not be able to show an improvement and will receive a poor Annual Yearly Progress grade and possibly lose funding in spite of their excellent performance.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
No response.
Budget priorities?
The Clarkston School Board and the administration are currently working to create a balanced budget. They are looking at ways to increase revenue such as marketing Clarkston’s programs to students of other school districts and home-schooled students, as well as deciding what expenses will have to be cut. I support their goal of keeping cuts as far away as possible from the students? learning environment. Staff reductions should be a last resort, but salary and benefits make up 85% of the budget. The additional cost of holding school elections in May rather than November should be reviewed.
What challenges do students face today?
Recent state legislation will require students to take more advanced classes in high school. To allow students to continue to be successful, more rigorous material will be cascaded down to the lower grades. This legislation was largely driven by a desire to make our graduates more competitive in college and the job market. Students must understand there is increasing competition for well paying jobs. If students want to attend college, they may need community service, extra-curricular activities, work experience and high test scores. Receiving a college degree today is similar in importance to having a high school diploma just a few decades ago. As a school board member, I can’t change the competitive environment our children face. I can only push our schools to offer as many opportunities for students as is economically feasible throughout their scholastic career. These should include strong academic programs, clubs, and intramural sports as well as educational and behavioral support programs.
Clarkston school successes?
Clarkston Schools is striving to become a premier school district. I support the district’s efforts to strengthen academics and offer different learning opportunities for our students. All day kindergarten, OSMTech, the International Academy and the start of an International Baccalaureate program are wonderful options for students. I would like to see foreign language offered at the elementary schools.
Goals?
My goals as a school board member are to be a diligent steward of public money as well as a promoter of educational practices that prepare our students for acceptance into higher education or the competitive job market that lies ahead.
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I have the knowledge, experience and skill to be a school board trustee. I believe in gaining a thorough understanding of an issue before I vote on it. I intend to put the interests of our students first whenever I vote. I hope you will support me in this endeavor on May 6th.

Jeff Broughton, 20-year resident of the community, single with two children, currently work for EDS as a global program manager and for the Michigan Army National Guard as a colonel.
Why do you want to be elected?
I am running for the School Board because I have a great passion for the children of this community, and the education they receive from the Clarkston schools. I am grateful that my children have received a world-class education from the teachers and administrators of this district. Election to the Board of Education allows me to serve the district and the community in a way that best leverages my leadership, management and communication skills.
Experience?
I have 15 years experience with Information Technology management, most recently as a Global Program Manager for EDS. I also have 24 years of military experience, as a colonel in the Michigan Army National Guard. These positions have given me valuable experience leading large, complex organizations similar to the Clarkston School District. I have also gained the know-how with budget management and strategic planning that will serve the board and the community well. I have also served as a PTA member since 1995, and have been a volunteer for numerous school activities.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
Clarkston is one of the elite school districts in the state. This is demonstrated by the multiple Blue Ribbon awards, and the commitment to excellence shown by Clarkston’s teachers and administrators. As a board member, I would work toward developing a balanced budget that sustains the district’s commitment to excellence.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
I support these guidelines as a way of ensuring that the students of the district are making satisfactory progress, and as a report card for how the district is performing. The challenge we face is that these mandates are not supported with sufficient state and federal funding. I will work with legislators and other school boards to help our lawmakers understand the impact of these mandates on the district, and encourage them to provide the funding necessary to fully implement them.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
The most important role of school is to educate children for the world they live in. I believe the primary responsibility for children’s social skills is with the parents. If the school has a responsibility for socialization, it is to allow children to practice those skills in a socially acceptable manner.
Budget priorities?
My budget priority is to keep as much of the budget in the classrooms as possible, and limit the district’s administrative overhead costs. Roughly 85 percent of the current district expenditures are for people cost, so we must look at ways to reduce this cost without affecting the educators and support staff who so ably teach our children today.
What challenges do students face today?
A key challenge for students is to learn and grow in a safe environment. I will support this by continuing our partnerships with local law enforcement and community groups to provide the violence-free, drug-free environment so important to that growth.
Clarkston school successes?
The district has been successful in maintaining a deserved reputation as an elite district. I would like to see this expanded by seeing continued improvement of our MEAP performance across the district.
Goals?
My goal is to leave the district in better shape than when I was elected to the board.
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I made the decision last year to run for the School Board. Since making that decision, I have attended all but two board meetings. I have become familiar with the issues facing the board, and the steps the board is taking to resolve them. By doing this, I am uniquely qualified among the non-incumbent candidates to immediately step in and make a positive contribution to the board.

Brian L. Kitchin, married to Kelly with an 11 year old, Chelsea, who attends Sashabaw Middle School. I am retired from General Motors Truck and Bus. I have been a resident of Clarkston for 9 years. Before that I was born and raised in Lake Orion. I am a Viet Nam Era veteran.
Why do you want to be elected?
I feel I can bring to the Board something that is missing, from Washington D.C. to the classrooms. That is some old-fashioned common sense.
Experience?
None. But I don’t feel that should be considered a great handicap. All you have to do is look around at our career politicians at all levels to see that they are the main problem in this country, state and county.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
I feel we are fortunate to have many professionals working here. We have some of the greatest teachers in the State. When Mrs. K.C. Leh was the principal of Pine Knob Elementary, she knew where every child was at all times. That is the type of dedication that you can’t buy with a salary.
I have great concerns of the new science curriculum as well as some of the old. I am not interested in indoctrination, but education. Many textbooks are marketed for California, which has the largest pupil population, so much of the curriculum caters to them. I feel their views and schools are more interested in making good little left-wing activists instead of well-rounded, free-thinking adults.
I think our sports programs speak for themselves, but the focus should be education for all children who want it.
This would be the last May election. ALL elections would be in November where we can get a legitimate consensus. Not the laughingstock we have now. (Superintendent) Dr. Al Roberts has to be led kicking and screaming anytime we ask for the simplest changes. The post-Labor Day start and November elections are to name a few. We aren’t smart enough to realize how difficult these decisions are, apparently. They speak from their mountaintop and us cattle just look up with a stupid look and let the administration and union run us over.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
That is just what they are, unfounded mandates. The state took reading, ‘riting and ‘rithmatic and changed it to Rigor, Relative and Relationship. Hello? That is an example of somebody with a little too much book learning and no common sense. Do they realize that it makes no sense to the average hard working Joe and Jane Blow? Just what in Sam Hill is that suppose to mean? It means someone is trying to baffle the state with ridiculous phrases to justify their unneeded level of bureaucracy. A job I can see could be eliminated tomorrow without affecting the schools one iota.
The No Child Left Behind should be gone over and ANYTHING not funded by the federal government should be eliminated. In my opinion anything drafted by Sen. Ted Kennedy shouldn’t be anywhere near my child. His egalitarian utopia doesn’t exist outside his Mahogany paneled office. As a board member I would lead the fight to remove what we don’t want, need or use of this program.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
I think the Powers-that-be feel parents don’t have the time any more to properly teach values and morals. I think this is a dangerous concept. Personally, I feel we should teach adding, subtracting, provable sciences without agendas, reading and writing. Throw in Civics and Government and leave the rest to the parents. Right or wrong, that is their job. Not the schools. When schools are blackmailed to teach certain curriculums, either by the government or the Michigan Education Association, it can only lead to a curriculum that doesn’t take the interest of the children or the parents into account.
When a child never heard a word about Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7 in school but we sing a 20-minute song about Kwanzaa, a holiday founded by a convicted terrorist and felon that celebrates racism, separatism, and Marxism, I think we have a major problem with political correctness that threatens our entire education system.
We have fifth graders reading about throwing paint on people who wear fur. They don’t use energy to make us the greatest Nation on earth but they waste energy. These are some of the problems I see when we try to let the schools socialize our children.
Science instruction should develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students. Real-world applications enable students to understand the relevance of what they are learning. Further, active learning promotes intellectual growth. The MEECS curriculum relies heavily on passive instruction, which doesn’t foster independent learning or critical thinking. Our students would benefit more if allowed to explore issues without indoctrination. Let them draw their own conclusions on such issues as land use, climate change and the use of nonrenewable fuels.
Every MEECS unit is prefaced with statements underscoring the balanced and science-based nature of the materials. However, the materials are not balanced. They promulgate a viewpoint, one that clearly favors centralized control and decision-making over scientific investigation and public debate.
Charles Bacon, Ph.D., is professor of physics and chemistry at Ferris State University and coauthor of ‘DO SOMETHING: The Art and Practice of Project-Based, Active Learning? and ‘A Guide to Connect Learning to Performance.?
This text is part of the larger publication: Michigan Education Report (2007-04).
Budget priorities?
First is education at the classroom level. We should close the Oakland Intermediate School District tomorrow and get rid of 600 bureaucrats. This will save the county $280 million a year. Follow some of the Mackinac Policy Center’s recommendations. One is to close the OISD. This will free up many funds to keep the two main priorities, classrooms and transportation. In a district like ours, buses are necessary. We have 36 square miles that we need to cover to get our kids to school. Period.
You ask who will take over the job when OISD closes? Well, any administration that has an office of Communication and Marketing, like they all do, can axe that job and give them the responsibility of overseeing the work the OISD did before. Should be simple to do.
Contracts have to be negotiated from the view that teachers work for Clarkston Schools, not the MEA. We will offer them a fair contract based on performance and everything has to be on the table, including insurance and pensions. We need to look at tenure. Teachers should be well compensated but we have to be able to remove ones not meeting our standards. In our schools, I feel only a very few would be affected. I spent 30 years at General Motors and believe me, I have seen job cuts without affecting productivity. At first, it is always resisted, but they usually work. We had to cut to stay competitive and our paycheck was based on producing a quality product. Our paychecks didn’t come from the pockets of the taxpayers. I feel we can offer a package any teacher would be happy with but some won’t like it.
Sports are an important part of Clarkston schools and should be kept as long as we can provide our children with the fundamental job, education. I don’t feel we can justify not providing bus service but fielding soccer, football and basketball. As of now, I think it’s a no-brainer. But I would forgo sports if it meant kids not having transportation.
I also would like to make sure every student enrolled is a legal resident or citizen. Anyone sitting at a desk not legally here is no different then an employee embezzling $7,500 per year from the taxpayers. I’m not sure how popular that view is but I don’t care. This country was founded on the rule of law. We need to know if it’s an issue here or not. The recent attorney general’s ruling on drivers? licenses should help with this.
What challenges do students face today?
I truly believe it is a little different but I don’t buy the ideas that it is so drastically different. Kids are kids, some are good and some aren’t. Some kids can be reached and some not. Our responsibility is to try to reach as many as possible but not to risk the many to cater to the few who don’t want to be there. I feel every student is offered a great chance at an education. If they choose not to take advantage of it then all we can do is wish them luck and send them on their way. I don’t feel it’s the taxpayer’s responsibility to pay for alternative education for some who don’t want to participate under the established rules.
Can some at-risk students be helped? Absolutely. But we have to realize there isn’t enough money in the world to help some with a lot of the home environments they come from. We can’t do anything about parents who don’t care.
I believe adults truly know what’s best for children and contrary to what most kids think, they don’t know everything and many of us have had a lot of experience in life in general and we do actually know a thing or two. Is that a popular opinion in today’s, if it feels good do it, culture? Probably not, but that is a fact of life.
Clarkston school successes?
I think our entire school system is a success.
Goals?
To continue to help Clarkston deliver the best education possible to as many children as possible. To allow the board to listen more closely to parents. Parents who work 40-60 hours a week and may be too tired or too frustrated to battle the board and just thinks it’s easier to go with the status quo. To let the parents know that it isn’t all academic elitists who think they’re smarter then them running their children’s education. I am not saying our board is a bunch of elitists but I didn’t see many of them in the shop
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
I feel I can bring fresh ideas and views. I consider myself a cross between Ron Paul and Larry the Cable Guy. I don’t take myself too serious but I take the job and responsibility serious. I don’t want to be a career politician. I think our community has many good, hard working people that should step up and run, also. It can be somewhat intimidating entering unknown arenas but it should be fun, too.

Joan Patterson, 49, incumbent, 21 years in community, husband Thomas Patterson, child Jeffrey Patterson, who goes to Clarkston schools; Systems Analyst, Certified Tennis Professional, Business Owner.?
Why do you want to be re-elected?
I have enjoyed the challenges and commitment required as both a school board trustee, and this year school board secretary, and would like to continue to serve the community in this manner. I have the time, background, and commitment to help make sure Clarkston schools stand for a rigorous education for the 21st century.
Challenges facing public education, including cuts in funding, mandates from the state and federal government levels, and the difficult financial challenges this state is currently experiencing, are issues that will not be solved quickly or easily. I have the passion, education, dedication, and business background to be your voice on the school board by continuing to listen to and represent your needs.
Experience?
My education, MBA of Information Systems, and work as a systems analyst, consultant, and Certified Tennis Professional, trained me to identify problems and implement solutions through both personal and community involvement. Through other elected and appointed positions I have held, such as president of the Deer Lake Farms Association, and president of the Independence Elementary PTO, I have gained experience in successfully working with diverse groups of people to move toward a common goal of continually improving our schools.
My last four years on the Clarkston School Board has given me background and the knowledge of the school system to challenge the status quo and continue to look for win/win solutions through these tough times. I believe we all need to look within ourselves to ask how we can improve our education system. I will continue to identify opportunities to allow all our children to be successful. I welcome the challenge the school board has ahead of it.
Evaluation of Clarkston Community Schools?
We have great people and a community that cares. The curriculum and sports programs have served us well. Now we must make changes that will allow our students to be competitive in the 21st century while still carrying on the traditions and values of our community. We must remain open to evaluate changes that may be required to retain our good reputation within and beyond the community.
Opinion of federal and state education guidelines? Proper oversight or just unfunded mandates?
The concept of standards for education is a good idea. It provides a base level requirement to evaluate our programs and curriculum. Gravitating our programs down to that base level is not good.
When these standards force teachers to teach to a test, I believe we’ve become too narrow in our expectations for our students. We need to look at the competencies within the schools that exceed the mandated standard, and maintain that difference. Parents want to send their children to schools with superior programs. Good teachers want to teach there, and administrators want to be a part of the management process there. We do not know what the jobs of tomorrow will be but we need to teach our students to be able to think critically and continue to be lifelong learners.
What is the role of schools in children’s lives?
We are charged with the responsibility to ensure each child has the opportunity to learn and develop into a young adult. For a child to develop, they must feel secure and supported by the environment around them. To create a positive, safe environment, we create and communicate expectations of behavior, and enforce rules and structure to teach kids how to work with people and make a positive contribution to society. It is not the responsibility of the schools to replace the role provided by parents and guardians of our students. Rather, it’s the role to compliment the positive influences provided by the home environment. In situations where that positive environment is apparently lacking, it’s the responsibility of the schools to engage the appropriate social services to help turn the situation around, to positive.?
Budget priorities?
When faced with a limited budget, my yardstick to determine priorities for funding will be the impact a reduction in funding will have on the educational and developmental opportunities available to our students. I also believe we must make sure our elementary students can read, write, and solve math problems. Without these skills, our students? chances’for success are greatly limited.
What challenges do students face today?
There are two answers to this. One is short term, and the other long-term. Long-term, the biggest challenge facing our students today is the change in the Michigan and U.S. economy and the jobs that will be available, and the education those jobs require. The manufacturing economy of our area, state, and country is being assaulted by global influences we have little opportunity to control here in Clarkston. I believe this will continue regardless of any change at the state and federal governmental levels. We must prepare for that eventuality.
Short-term, the challenges are similar to those faced by students historically. There are many opportunities for good students to be ‘knocked off the tracks? by the distractions and negative influences that show themselves everyday. These include loss of family income from a layoff or business failure, negative social pressures, and the overwhelming influence of the speed society operates at today.
As I said above, we who are responsible for the educational processes need to provide the best possible environment and the most appropriate curriculum, foster positive family support, and recognize shortcomings with engagement of appropriate social services.?
Clarkston school successes?
I would like to continue to provide students opportunities in the arts, music, and athletic areas so we can continue to develop the ‘whole child.? It’s good for the students and the schools to have a high graduation rate and good acceptance into college level institutions. It’s also good to have highly competitive athletic teams, robotics, arts and music programs. We need to continue our engagement in programs such as International Baccalaureate and OSMTech, which each foster different skills within our students.
Goals?
To continue to be an advocate for the development of our students; to expand our curriculum to include a foreign language at the elementary level;’to continue my personal development to more effectively provide positive direction for the district; to be open to understand the issues placed before us; to be diligent in my financial responsibility to create a balanced budget for this district; and to focus on student achievement.
Other reasons residents should vote for you?
During the past four years, I have gained knowledge of the workings of Clarkston Schools and a better appreciation of the environment they contribute to. I have leveraged the courses and education options available to school board members to improve my ability to be an advocate for the different constituents in Clarkston. I continue to work within the school as a mentor to our kids. I think I am in touch and knowledgeable about the changes and challenges facing our district, students, teachers, and administrators on a daily basis. I would love to continue my work and move our school system forward.