By SALINA POST
During the month of Oct. the Salina Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the six Salina City Commission candidates and school board member candidates for USD 306, USD 305, and USD 307.
The Salina Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information, initiatives they hope to champion as a board member, and why they chose to run for school board.
If you live outside of Saline County check with your local elections officer for election deadlines.
Emily Komarek
What is your Age?
37
What is your profession?
I am the owner and instructor at Central Kansas ISR
Are you an incumbent?
No
Give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less:
I am a former public school educator, having taught in the 305 and 307 school districts. I recently served as an adjunct professor for the education department at Bethany College for the past 3 years. I hold a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. I am currently the owner and instructor of Central Kansas ISR and I live in Saline County with my husband and son.
As a school board member what specific initiatives or policies would you prioritize or improve educational outcomes and support the overall well-being of students in our community?
I would work alongside my fellow board members to improve education initiatives that are essential to the functions and daily operations of the public school system. Focusing on a high-quality education for all students in the district, working to improve teacher retention and recruitment, and all other important issues will be essential to our work on the school board. I will work with other elected school board members to make decisions that are student focused.
In recent years many books have been removed from the shelves of public libraries due to their alleged inappropriate content. As a school board member where do you stand on this issue?
I am an advocate for literacy that offers a well-rounded education. However, I believe there are more important issues to discuss regarding improving rural education opportunities in USD 307. I will always be open to dialogue that improves the quality of our literacy education.
Parental engagement and community involvement are crucial for the success of any school district. What strategies would you implement to increase collaboration between parents and educators?
Open communication is important for all individuals in a school community. I will continue to encourage parents and teachers to keep an open line of communication to discuss celebrations, concerns, and suggestions for improvement.
Please explain why you are running for school board:
I am running for school board because I believe that every child deserves to have a quality education. I am invested in my community and believe that serving on the school board is one way that I can serve my community and support our school system. Public schools are the center of our communities and serving on the school board allows me to be a voice for the children, families, and community members.