SONJA MYER - BRANSON SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE

The following survey questions were sent to all 2023 candidates.

This was Sonja Myer's response:

1. What prompted you to run for this position?

I am currently serving on the Branson Board of Education – I was elected in 2020 and am running for re-election for the same reasons I ran for election the first time. First, I have a heart for children, especially the children in our community. I desire that every child have the opportunity to receive an exceptional, quality education in schools that provide a safe, caring, and respectful environment. Second, I continue to be at a point in life where I can devote the necessary time and energy to be an effective and valuable board member. And finally, I have a strong desire to serve and give back to this community that I have been a part of for almost 30 years and to give back to the school district that my three children have been a part of. Serving on the Branson School Board would be both an honor and privilege I would not take lightly. The past three years on the Board of Education have allowed me to learn and grow as a board member as well as an individual.  I feel confident that I can continue to be an asset to the Branson Board of Education.

2. What are your goals for the Branson School District if elected?

My goals for our district, if elected, are to continue to provide the outstanding level of education to all children in our district.  Branson is truly blessed with an outstanding public school district and these children are the future of our community.  Our district has a strategic plan with three parts:  Student Success, Organizational Leadership, and Culture & Climate.  I hope to continue to work with the board to guide our decisions based on these goals.

3. What is the #1 issue you hope to address if elected?

My goal if re-elected would be to consistently work to continue the incredible district we currently have.  There are many challenges to public schools in today’s society and our board works hard to support our teachers & staff in order to provide an outstanding educational opportunity to every student.

4. On a scale of 1 to 5 (poor to excellent), how would you rate the transparency and communication of Branson's current Board of Education?

Our current Board of Education is strong in leadership qualities.  We strive to make decisions that the best for our district.  I believe we provide transparency and communication to the best of our ability.

5. Is there anything you want to change or improve in that regard?

I believe there is always room to grow and improve in every area of life.  We need to continue to strive to provide information to the community and continue to make decisions based on what is best for the students in our community.

6. Branson's long-standing culture has been one of patriotism, Christianity, and family values; how would you support or change this culture as a Branson School Board Director?

I have lived in the Branson area for almost 30 years.  As a community member and local business owner, I know the importance of this culture of Branson.  I believe our district does a wonderful job of guiding our students towards positive character traits. The school district is a vital piece of this community and as such, should play a role in supporting the culture of our community.

7. How would you define your political affiliation? Democrat, Republican, or other?

Branson School Board elections are actually non-partisan. My campaign to serve on the Branson School Board is based on my desire to serve the community of Branson in its entirety.  I will continue to ask questions, make decisions, and lead based on what is best for our students, staff and community.