Oak Ridge School Board: Lindsay L. Berry

Name: Lindsay L. Berry

Age: 34

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Spouse, children's names: Married to Dean Berry our children-Wyatt 10, Zoe 9 and Addie 1

Occupation: Childcare provider

Employer: Self-employed

Businesses owned, all or part: None

Previous offices held or sought: ORCAA- Oak Ridge Community Athletic Association Vice President 2011, President 2012; PTO- President 2013-present

What is the most important issue facing the Oak Ridge School District, and what can be done about it?

One of the most important issues facing our school district will be the purchase of new computers for our lab. Our students use these computers on a daily basis. Beyond class work, testing is completed in these labs and must be kept up to date. Technology upkeep and maintenance is not cheap, but is necessary. With the proper research and budget I'm confident these purchases can be made to benefit our students.

What in your background or education makes you qualified for this office?

I am an ORHS alumni. I am an involved parent and feel that by participating in as much as possible I can be a voice for all concerned parents and community members. I am a member of the ORCAA, PTO (president) on the financial planning committee & fundraising chair, member of the Booster Club & a member of the Parent Advisory Panel for Reading.

What is your view on Common Core educational standards?

Common Core hit Missouri by storm and is devastating to our students. If fully implemented, I believe it will strip each child from their individuality. Learning at their own pace or with added guidance will not be an option. A teacher will no longer have an input on how to adapt creative learning. I have done my own research, par taken in surveys and spoke with those for/against. I am opposed to Common Core.

Do you think the Oak Ridge School District is a good place for teachers to work? Why or why not?

I believe our school district is wonderful. Being a small school teachers and administrators can communicate easily with students and parents. Our teachers go above and beyond most. This is one of the reasons our schools testing results are number one. Our staff is a driving force when striving for excellence and reaching goals. Having an amazing student body is pertinent as well. I am proud of our school family!