OLIVE — As the April 7 election draws closer, local voters are preparing to decide who will represent their community in the coming years. To help the Olive community become more informed about the candidates seeking an office we asked each candidate the same set of questions about their intentions. The following responses are presented in the candidates’ own words.
Q) Why are you running?
A) Alan Bardgett: I am running for Olive School Board Seat 1 because I care deeply about our schools and want to give back to the community that has given so much to my family. Since moving into the district four years ago with my wife, we’ve made it a priority to be involved — attending school board meetings, community forums, and school events to learn about the needs, opportunities, and strengths of our school system.
Through those experiences, my respect for the work being done has only grown, and I’ve felt called to step forward and serve in a greater capacity. For me, serving on the school board is not just about attending meetings — it’s about providing thoughtful leadership, responsible oversight, and giving voice to students, families, and educators. I believe in collaboration, transparency, and focusing on what truly matters: creating the best possible educational experience for our children.
My commitment to our schools isn’t new. I’ve volunteered in school clean-up days and supported students through Junior Achievement BizTown events, where I’ve seen firsthand students’ incredible potential and the dedication of our teachers. These experiences have reinforced my desire to serve in a bigger way.
Our children have benefited from small class sizes, excellent teacher involvement, and an environment that fosters academic growth and confidence. I want every family in our district to continue having that same positive experience. If elected, I’ll work tirelessly to support learning, steward resources responsibly, and keep open communication between the board and the community.
I more fully expand upon this at https:// alanbardgett.com/schoolboard/
A) Sarah Stonecipher: I’m running for the school board because our children deserve leaders who genuinely care about their future. As a parent in Olive Public Schools, I see both the strengths of our schools and the opportunities to make them even better. I want to work with teachers, parents, and the community to support students and keep our schools moving forward.
Q) What are the three most important issues you believe need to be addressed?
A) Alan Bardgett: The three most important issues needing attention are academic excellence, facility improvements, and student retention and growth.
First, we must continue increasing our focus on STEM activities and academicbased competitions. These programs prepare our students for real-world careers and higher education opportunities. Expanding hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math experiences while encouraging participation in academic competitions, challenges our students to excel, builds confidence, and showcases the strength of our district.
Second, the condition of our facilities must be addressed. Our school buildings reflect our priorities. Necessary improvements range from the main building façade to consistent bathroom maintenance and even attention to teacher housing. When facilities are well maintained, students and staff take pride in their environment, morale improves, and we send a strong message that we value education. Investing in our infrastructure is investing in our children and our educators.
Third, student retention and population growth are critical to our future. Continued reductions in enrollment are detrimental to our school. They impact funding, programming, and long-term sustainability. We must actively promote the strengths of our district, support families, and ensure we remain a place where parents want to send their children and teachers want to work. Growing and retaining our student body is essential to maintaining a vibrant and thriving school community.
Strong academics, solid facilities, and stable enrollment are foundational to ensuring our school’s longterm success.
A) Sarah Stonecipher: Student success, communication, and responsible leadership Our students deserve every opportunity to succeed. I believe we must continue strengthening academic programs, supporting teachers, and making sure students have access to the tools, technology, and resources they need to prepare for their future.
Parents should always feel informed and included in decisions that affect their children’s education. I believe in clear communication between the school board, administration, teachers, and families so our community feels heard and involved.
Students learn best when they feel safe and supported. That means focusing on school safety, addressing bullying, and making sure students’ physical and mental well-being are priorities.
Q) How do you plan to address those issues if elected?
A) Alan Bardgett: When discussing solutions to our three key challenges, I believe we must be proactive, transparent, and intentional in our approach.
STEM and Academic-Based Competitions - We should build on this year’s successes by ensuring teacher sponsors have the materials, resources, and funding they need to continue and expand these programs. When educators are properly supported, students benefit. Expanding STEM initiatives and academic competitions will not only increase student participation but also create lasting impacts on classroom learning, critical thinking skills, and long-term career readiness. We must make these opportunities sustainable, not temporary.
Facility Maintenance and Improvements - We need to be honest and open about the condition of our facilities and clear about project priorities. Some improvements can be addressed quickly and economically — routine maintenance, minor repairs, and appearance upgrades. However, larger projects such as structural updates or major renovations must be carefully coordinated and responsibly planned. This may require bringing additional bond proposals before voters. Transparency about costs, timelines, and long-term benefits will be essential to maintaining community trust and support.
Student Retention and Enrollment Growth - Student retention requires us to listen first. Families leave for many different reasons, and we must categorize and identify the root causes behind those decisions. That means actively asking parents for feedback, truly listening, and responding with transparency. We should create clear communication channels where parents feel heard and valued. By addressing concerns openly and demonstrating a commitment to improvement, we can strengthen trust, retain current families, and attract new ones.
By focusing on support, transparency, and communication, we can create meaningful solutions that strengthen our schools for the future.
A) Sarah Stonecipher: I plan to address these issues by working collaboratively with school leadership, teachers, parents, and the community to ensure the best outcomes for our students at Olive Public Schools.
First, to support student achievement, I will advocate for strong academic programs and resources that help every student succeed. This includes supporting teachers in the classroom and encouraging opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, and skilled trades.
Second, I believe transparency and communication with parents are essential. If elected, I will encourage open dialogue between the school board and the community. Parents and community members should feel informed about decisions and comfortable sharing their concerns and ideas.
Finally, I will support policies that promote a safe and positive learning environment. Students perform their best when they feel safe, respected, and supported. I will work with school leaders to ensure safety measures are in place and that students have access to the support they need both academically and personally.
My goal as a school board member would be to listen, represent the community, and make thoughtful decisions that strengthen our schools and create the best possible learning environment for students in Olive Public Schools.