Questions for the Candidates Alamogordo School Board Elections District 3

AlamogordoTownNews.com, AlamogordoConservativeDaily.org and KALHradio.org shares a responsibility as a media platform to allow all candidates to express why they should be considered for the offices they seek. Our role in journalism is to showcase the details of candidates and offer information then you the voter will decide. As we get closer to the actual election our editorial board will release our endorsements for the various offices.

The Alamogordo School Board election for District 3 includes the candidates Marianne Marie Jackson, Board Member Three, Amanda Gwynn Jewell, Board Member Three, Shannon Troy Wright, Board Member Three.  

Our media enterprise represents over 12,000 daily readers and listeners representing our entities of  KALHradio.org,  AlamogordoTownNews.com, and AlamogordoConservativeDaily.org. We sent a set of questions to all candidates seeking their input for the various positions. We explained that we wanted to provide our over 12,000 daily readers representing both major political parties, Independents and Decline to States an opportunity to see a response in the candidates own words to our questions. The deadline for response has passed.

The municipal and school board elections are supposed to be nonpartisan races.

However, it has become obvious some candidates will only participate in partisan forums. Partisanship in a nonpartisan election in itself speaks to what one can expect in the style of governance from those candidates. It takes courage to run for elected office and transparency is what the public expects of elected officials. Candidates are screaming for transparency yet some are not transparent with the press. 

Specific to the school board race for Alamogordo School Board District 3 Marianne Jackson and Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND to our INTERVIEW Request. 

Amanda Jewell participated and what follows is her responses...

AlamogordoTownNews.com Question 1. Provide a brief biography of your governing and business experience or if a new candidate for office what community experience qualifies you for public office?

Amanda Jewell Answer: After serving on the board for the last year, following my appointment, I am excited to announce I am running for APS Board District 3! It’s been a privilege to serve in this position and it would be my honor to continue to do so. I was raised in Alamogordo and graduated from Alamogordo High School. I continued my education at Louisiana State University- Shreveport graduating with a B.S. in Psychology and then earning a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. I was lucky enough to marry my high school sweetheart, Kevin Jewell, also an Alamogordo native. While he served in the Army, I provided individual and group counseling to teens and adults, intensive in-home therapy with children and their guardians, and in-school counseling.

My hope on this board is to continue to assist in developing our Career Technical Education (CTE) program in Alamogordo. My family has been building homes in Alamogordo for over 40 years, and I have a personal understanding of how important building trades are for a community and the individuals working in those career fields. I understand that not every student is interested in or able to attend college. I am continuing to work with our district, as well as local business owners, to develop mentoring and internship programs and grow our building trades and CTE program to support our community and help students graduate with the career readiness of their choice.

With a Master's in Mental Health Counseling, and experience working in in-school counseling, I understand the importance of supporting our students and staff. I will continue to advocate that all our students are provided with age-appropriate resources and safe learning environments. Although I am a licensed school counselor, I am unable to work for APS while I serve on the board. Over the last two years, I have worked as a Project Manager in the home building industry and used my experience, as well as the experiences of other women, to publish two STEM and construction-related children’s books, Panda the Project Manager Builds Her First Home, and Panda the Project Manager Builds a Greenhouse.

I believe in our community and have worked with numerous local organizations to help better our great city. Along with my husband, we founded the Alamogordo Chapter of Team RWB, a non-profit veteran’s service organization, whose goal is “To enrich the lives of America's Veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity.” I am an active member of 100 Women Who Care, on the board of directors for Alamogordo Mainstreet, and the chair of Economic Vitality, helping to oversee the Mainstreet Makeover Project.

After numerous moves during my ten years as a military spouse, I understand the difficulties facing our military service members and their families. After his honorable discharge from the military, my husband and I moved back to Alamogordo to raise our two daughters here, as Alamogordo Tigers, just as we were raised. I understand the importance of parental involvement in education. I have been involved in my children’s school including as a classroom volunteer and the PTC for 5 years and have seen first-hand the challenges of students, parents, and teachers. I’m excited to serve our community and help #ReturnTheRoar to Alamogordo!

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND 

AlamogordoTownNews.com Question 2: Please describe your understanding of your role and responsibilities as a school board candidate.

Amanda Jewell Response: Until I was appointed to the board last year, I had a misconception about the school board's role in our community. Now that I have served on the board for the past year, I understand the role of a school board member encompasses three key responsibilities: policy development, budget management, and the employment of the superintendent. Policies shape the educational environment: covering areas from curriculum to safety and discipline. Competent budget decisions are essential to allocate resources effectively, impacting teacher salaries, infrastructure, and programming. Selecting a capable superintendent is a pivotal decision, as they provide stability and direction, and manage daily operations. These responsibilities are crucial because they directly influence the quality of education students receive. A school board member's fulfillment of these duties shapes our student’s futures and opportunities.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com: (Incumbent) If an incumbent please describe 3 achievements that you are proudest of in accomplishments during your tenure in office?
(New Candidate) Please provide 3 initiatives you will champion as a school board member and
explain how you will facilitate garnering support from a majority of the board and the public across constituencies.

Amanda Jewell Response: Although I am an incumbent, as an appointee I have only had the privilege of serving one year. During this time, I have witnessed many incredible achievements. Because I have been serving a short amount of time many of the accomplishments, I have been a part of are a result of my predecessor, Col Ryan Sherwood. 

Shortly after being appointed, I was able to participate in the Grand Opening of Holloman
Elementary School, which was the result of the hard work of many board members and superintendents prior to me. Seeing the students and teachers tour this beautiful facility for the first time and experience the amazing learning spaces was so special.

One initiative I have been involved with is the further development of the career and trades program (Career Technical Education, CTE). I understand the importance of the building trades program and the significant impact it can have to help shape the future of our graduates. My father and uncle participated in the building trades program at Alamogordo High School in the late 70s and went on to start a top 200 homebuilding company in the nation. Utilizing my connections to the home building industry, I have assisted the CTE program director in developing community relations and continued outreach to our trade community. I understand not every student has the interest or opportunity to attend a “traditional” college. It’s important we have an educated labor force as well as a skilled labor force for our community to thrive.

Another initiative I’m excited about being involved with, in our district, is the push for innovation and hands-on learning opportunities. This past summer, I was able to participate in a workshop hosted by the district with Grant Lichtman. During this work session, we were able to discuss the future of education and the strategies most successful in driving educational outcomes. The meeting was based around the upcoming construction of the new Holloman Middle School, however, a transformative outlook can be applied to all our schools and used to engage students and teachers in a more collaborative learning.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com Why are you running for office? What is your motivation to be an office holder?

Amanda Jewell Response: I was raised in Alamogordo, and have deep roots in our community, and have understood the importance of community leadership, even outside of elected positions. After leaving for college and living around the country while my husband served as a Green Beret, we moved back to Alamogordo because we wanted to raise our children as Tigers like we were. My children will be the third generation in my family to go through Alamogordo Public Schools, and I want to ensure they are receiving the best education possible in our community. During my time serving on this board over the last year, I have seen first-hand the positive changes and implementation of incredible programs; And I want to continue to be part of that progress.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com What do you view as the biggest opportunity as a leader in the role you are seeking? How will you expand community engagement and bipartisan leadership?

Amanda Jewell Response: The most significant opportunity I see for myself in seeking a school board position is to create a collaborative, non-partisan educational environment that prioritizes student well-being. As someone who is registered as a “Decline to State” (DTS), I feel I am able to reach across both party lines and work with individuals to find common ground for the greater good. Expanding community engagement is vital as it forges strong partnerships between the district and the community it serves, which enhances educational outcomes and transparency. Bipartisan leadership ensures that all perspectives are considered, fostering effective and sustainable solutions that serve everyone.

I believe I am the right candidate for this position due to my background as a licensed school counselor, children's book author, and native of Alamogordo. My professional experience and community roots equip me to promote open dialogue, bipartisan decision-making, and meaningful community engagement. I am committed to transcending political divides and focusing on the common goal of providing the best possible education for our students, making our schools a source of pride and opportunity for all.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com . The demographics of Otero County 4.6% Black, 8.1% Other 39.7% Hispanic, 46.9% Caucasian, 7.1% identify as members of the LBGTQ community according to the US Census. What outreach have you done to build consensus and constituencies within the diversity of the citizens in your
district?

Amanda Jewell Response: I understand what a wonderfully diverse community we live in. I also understand that this diversity often leads to disparity in our community. I recently toured the Tiger Care Center and met with the amazing staff of this facility. I learned about the programs offered and the community they serve. Utilizing the McKinney Vento Fund, our district served approximately 180 students last year who lacked stable housing. Through this program, they provide food, clothing, hygiene products, bedding, and referrals to physicians or other outside services. I understand the importance of these programs, and how they impact educational outcomes. Every child in our district is unique and has a unique set of circumstances, some more fortunate than others. It’s important we understand this diversity and how these programs impact educational outcomes.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com . Integration was introduced to Alamogordo due to a military directive and a coach took it on. Equality of Girls in Sports was a federal mandate and the system under the coaching staff took the lead ahead of much of the state. Alamogordo public schools during those periods of innovations was ranked in the top of the nation. Given the diversity especially with the military students within the Alamogordo Public Schools and the military mandates for diversity and inclusion education and recognition to be a part of public-school curriculum per military directives such as AFI36-7001, how will you message and manage the limits to your authority to conservative leaning constituencies with the requirements and mandates of state, federal and military required curriculum around diversity and inclusion?

Amanda Jewell Response: Effectively managing the balance between any constituency and the mandates for diversity and inclusion is a matter of open communication. I will actively engage with all stakeholders, to listen to their concerns and offer a platform for open discussion. It's essential to convey that diversity and inclusion education doesn't seek to impose specific beliefs but rather to promote a more inclusive and harmonious community. I will emphasize the benefits of a diverse and inclusive educational environment.

While respecting the boundaries of my authority, I will be transparent about the legal and regulatory requirements we must meet. By fostering an atmosphere of respectful dialogue, I aim to bridge differences and find common ground, ultimately ensuring that our educational system adheres to mandated standards while also accommodating various viewpoints within our diverse community.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com The job of school board member is one that is focused on one staff member decision, the only staff issue a board member may legally engage in is for is the school superintendent. What is your criteria for a successful superintendent? What qualifications are you looking for in a superintendent?

Amanda Jewell Response: In my search for a superintendent, I will prioritize a candidate who understands the unique needs of our community. They should hold a solid educational background, have a track record of effective leadership, and prioritize a kids-first attitude. Effective communication, transparency, and a commitment to differentiated students' success are essential. Community engagement and collaborative leadership are imperative, as is the ability to adapt and solve challenges in our ever-evolving educational landscape.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

AlamogordoTownNews.com What are the two best attributes of your local school system? What within the local school system brings you the most pride?

Amanda Jewell Response: I am proud of the fiscal transparency the district has developed and continues to develop. Through the Capital Outlay Website, our community can track how money is being spent on every project happening in the district. This helps individuals understand how their tax dollars are being spent, but also where projects are in the phases of construction. I am also proud of how far our district has come in relation to the fiscal audits that we go through every year. Waste, fraud, and abuse should be the top priority of every tax-paying citizen and the district has shown how far they’ve come in the past few years with having minimal issues with our external audits that are mandated and reported to the State of New Mexico and the Public Education Department.

I am also incredibly proud of our health services and hope team, led by Lisa Patch. The telehealth program implemented this year is the first of its kind in the state and one of very few in the nation. Our
district understood the concerns of parents wanting to be involved in the student’s healthcare and they partnered with Champion Urgent Care, to provide urgent care visits with physicians at every school via video technology. Through the program parents or guardians must be present in person, on the phone, or on video and their child can be screened for a variety of illnesses. If the child is healthy enough, and not contagious they can return to class, all while the guardian never has to leave work. If the child needs to be sent home, prescriptions can be called in, all while the parent leaves to come get the child. It keeps students in school as much as possible and helps adults who may have difficulty leaving work or other transportation issues. Programs like this help keep kids in classrooms, where they have more opportunities to continue learning. And it’s important to note, that all of this is funded through a grant, and APS does not receive any money for urgent care visits. This program is to keep students healthy and in school.

Marianne Marie Jackson Answer: FAILED TO RESPOND

Shannon Troy Wright FAILED TO RESPOND

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Media has a responsibility to dig, investigate, question and report. The public has a responsibility to gather information and make an informed decision and then of course vote. We take our role serious and appreciate the candidates that take their role with an equal level of respect for the process. 

For transparency sake we share that our media business is owned by Rene Sepulveda a registered Democrat. He has issued a few personal endorsements via opinion pieces. Those are of his personal choice and may not reflect the opinions of the editorial board.

The primary author of a majority of the content on our site is our lead journalist, a registered Republican, Chris Edwards. Mr. Edwards during past elections assisted in the campaigns of two Democrats and one Republican Judge. The judge who's campaign he assisted with in crafting a web presence, and social media engagement, won her race. She is a seated 12th Judicial District Judge.

The editorial board consists of representation from each party plus a Libertarian, Independent and Decline to State affiliations. We do not offer commentary on their responses in this series of articles, and thus allow you the reader to decide the merits of the candidate based upon responses. A future endorsement commentary will be issued closer to November 7th.

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