Candidate questionnaire: Kyle McDonald

__Name:__ Kyle McDonald

__Age:__ 46

__Place of Birth:__ U.S. Naval Hospital in Charleston, SC

__Spouse, children's names:__ Amy

Madeleine

Allison

__Occupation:__ Owner of insurance and financial agency

__Employer:__ Farmers Insurance- Kyle McDonald Agency

__Business owned, all or part:__ McDonald Insurance Agency, LLC

__Previous offices held or sought:__

9 years Cape Girardeau Board of Education

3 years President

4 years Vice President

2 years member of the the Board

__What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?:__

I'm currently serving my 9th year as a Board member. I have a passion for eduction and serving others. I believe that providing all students with a quality education benefits everyone in the community. I've been an active member of the board; serving 3 years as President and 4 years as Vice President. I regularly attend meetings, work sessions, and Board governance/educational opportunities. My record of leadership and service gives credibility to my Board qualifications.

__What do you see as the opportunities and challenges in the district?:__

The two biggest opportunities/challenges in our district today is increasing the graduation rate and finishing Phase 2 of the Master Facilities Plan. Since 2006, the graduation rate has increased from 72% to 87%. This is attributed to a focused, well-researched, and well-executed plan to reach all students at their level. And the successful execution of the Master Facilities Plan will give ALL students the opportunity to learn in their area of interest.

__How will you communicate your work to your constituents?:__

I have always maintained an open line of communication with all citizens impacted by Cape Public Schools. I encourage phone calls and emails when citizens have questions and/or concerns. I also encourage visits to Board meetings to see what is being done for our students. I attend community forums that encourage questions to elected officials. I would appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve the students of our community. Educating our children is everyone's business.

__What are the factors on which you will base your decisions as a school board member?:__

My Board experience has taught me that we have three primary responsibilities: supervising the Superintendent, establishing and approving School policy, and approving an annual budget. When performing these duties I ask myself, "Is this decision in the best interest of our students?" If the answer is YES, then that is how I vote. The other factor I consider, trusting that our administrators have researched the issue and are doing what is best for ALL students.