Oran School Board: Judi Henson

Judi Henson

Name: Judi Henson

Age: 46

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau, MO

Spouse, children's names: Spouse: Jim Henson

Children: Blake and Megan Henson

Occupation: Elementary Educator

Employer: Scott County R-IV (Kelly)

Businesses owned, all or part: Owner of Oran Kwik Stop

Previous offices held or sought: School Board Member for 6 years. Currently school board Treasure..

What is the most important issue facing the Oran School District? What can be done about it?:

The most important issue facing our school is funding. With government not being able to specifically allocate funds at a set rate, schools must balance their budgets with the unknown financial assistance. It is everyone's responsibility to use funds correctly and watch spending. As a board it is our duty to make sure our teachers and students do not feel the short fall of funds.

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

I have taught in the classroom for 15 years. I am familiar with educational requirements, what government expectations are, and what state testing entails. I have received my Masters in Elementary Administration as well as several hours toward a Specialist degree. With the college courses I've taken and my continued education, I feel that I am very knowledgeable about a school system and can provide valuable experience and input to the boards decision making process.

Where do you stand on the issue of Common Core standards?:

I feel that students must be held to a high accountability for their work. To show details and specific step strategies, implies thought process and understanding of the concept being taught. However, as a teacher my concern is that the common core will strip teachers of the flexibility and creativity in the classroom. I feel that more research needs to be done to the common core before it is totally implemented and stifles student creativity.

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

The Oran district is an excellent place to work. Our community is a caring supportive community that strives to succeed. Our school has become known for its academic excellence as well as extra curricular excellence. We work hard as a team to support students, each other, and to over come obstacles that arises. The one important item that we all come to - "We Do It For The Kids Because Our kids Are Our Future".