Woodland School Board candidate Jason Cook

Name Jason Cook

Age 44

Place of Birth Marble Hill, MO

Spouse, children's names

Spouse - Holly Cook

Kids - Emma, Josy, Ella

Occupation: Contractor

Employer: Self

Business owned, all or part

J Cook Building and Design

Previous offices held or sought

None

What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?

I can't say with any certainty that I am the most qualified of those running for this position. But what I can say is that I'm very motivated. To me personally, casting a reasonable vote on things presented to me as a board member is only part of the contribution. Being proactive and looking for ways to improve the everyday things that shape our future should be every bit as important.

What do you see as the opportunities and challenges in the district?

The opportunities are endless. We as a community have educators, authors, distributors, public servants, contractors, doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, dentists, successful retailers, stylists, timber buyers, timber cutters, and a work force that rivals any. Our people are our greatest asset. Being a booster goes beyond a yearly contribution. If we work to improve our community, which in turn attracts new people and new business, that growth will have a lasting financial impact on the district.

How will you communicate your work to your constituents?

Being a proud supporter of Woodland athletics, and having three kids that play multiple sports, I don't suspect that I'll be hard to find. Or a phone call works too. If you have something to discuss, we'll make time for a discussion.

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

The typical and correct response to this question is, of course, students first. Everything revolves around the kids. Decisions about faculty, athletics, school improvements, and budget concerns should all be made with our kids and our community in mind. Many times it's the chicken or the egg discussion. What's good for the teacher is ultimately what's best for our kids. What's best for the coach is ultimately what's best for our athletes...and so on.