Oran School Board: 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".