*This article does not constitute an endorsement of any candidate for the school board election by the Goodhue-Bellechester Messenger. We welcome each and every candidate to contact us for a story if they are interested in doing so to inform the public on their views.
There are three open seats on the Goodhue School board this election. Three candidates are on the ballot, Karl Knobelsdorff, Jerod Thomforde and Ryan Buck. We asked all three for an interview to introduce themselves to the community. Ryan Buck and Jerod Thomforde responded.
Ryan was first elected to the board in 2020. Here are his views on his position on the Goodhue School board.
Not just mine but the accomplishments of the board over the last 4 years would be . Transitioning into our new addition of the building. Navigating through the pandemic with minimal disruption as possible. Also staying financially responsible during these tougher economic times. All while continuing to build on our solid foundation of education and growing good people!
Education is ever changing whether it be at the state level or the national. Continuing on our path to take the best decision possible for our district, our students, and our community.
The number 1 strength of our community is the strong support of our school. Whether it be financially or as simple as volunteering during the school day or at a sporting event. Our community is top of the chart . Having that kind of support helps us as a board make the best decisions possible!
In the future we will continue to build on strong test scores and building well rounded young men and women as they head out into the real world. We will continue to navigate and operate financially in the best interest of the district and the community. Continue to work with administration and staff to make sure they have the tools needed to do their job at the best level possible! Go Wildcats.
My wife Lauren and I have been married for 14 years . We have two children Silas is 6 and in 1st grade . Collins is 4 and in preschool. We farm in the area and I also sell crop insurance in Goodhue . I’ve served as lions club president . I also served 10 years on the MN Corn growers board was President during that time. We enjoy spending time as a family outdoors and attending the many sporting events in Wildcat county. As a life long resident and graduate of Goodhue it very humbling and also gives a great sense of pride to serve and give back to the school. Thank you for your support!
Jerod Thomforde:
I’ve been a lifelong resident of the Goodhue area and graduated from Goodhue High School in 1994. Currently, I work at Xcel Energy and have been married to my wife, Tammy, for 25 years. We have three children: two have graduated, and one is still in high school. For the past 18 years, I’ve served on the Goodhue Fire Department. I'm currently in my second term on the Goodhue School Board and am seeking re-election for a third term.
In the last seven years, we’ve made several significant changes, including hiring a new Superintendent, passing a building referendum, transitioning to a middle school format, and navigating a pandemic. The Goodhue School District has successfully operated within our budget, and I want to ensure we continue this effort.
One pressing issue facing many districts is staffing shortages. I believe our administrative team has excelled in recruiting and hiring staff who share our goals and fit well within our District. We have a dedicated team of administrators, teachers, and support staff committed to providing a quality education for all students. This success is made possible by the strong support of our community!
