An item was added to cart!
JASON PRITCHETT - BRANSON SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE
The following survey questions were sent to all 2024 candidates.
This was Jason Pritchett's response:
1. What prompted you to run for this position?
Being a Branson resident the last 22 years, I have witnessed the progression of culture in the Branson community. I have three kids, all of which are in the Branson school system… Paisley, a 7th grade student at the Jr High, Kynlee, a 4th grade student at CRI, and my Tucker boy, who will be heading to kindergarten at CRP next year. I have been very active in the athletic department in the Branson community for the last 7 years coaching softball, basketball, and volleyball. I have had the opportunity to meet many great families as well as some incredible kiddos that all attend Branson schools.
Culture is a big point of interest for me, but creating a winning culture is even that much more desirable. I’m super excited about jumping into the new “Ozark Mountain conference“ next year with some schools that we can logistically compete with on and off the field and courts. This will include not only athletics but all clubs, such as band, choir, theater, economics, and more. The Branson school board has done a great job in the past couple of years to push the winning culture of the Branson school district. As a former and current coach, I want to jump on board to put a “shot of steroids” in the arm of winning culture in our school system. I am a huge advocate of student involvement and extracurricular activities. The more students are involved, the more the student feels needed, wanted, accepted, and most importantly, valued. I believe this keeps them engaged at a higher level.
2. What are your goals for the Branson School District if elected?
I have had the opportunity to spend many days inside the school walls not only as a parent volunteer, but as a participant in the “watchdog“ program. This has been an incredible program to allow fathers, grandparents, and other father figures to come spend time in the school halls to help with student direction, encouragement, and an overall presence from a parental standpoint. Family values are number one on my list in regards to what I want to instill in my kiddos, and if I can support other students in the same fashion, I will take every chance I can to encourage that. I truly do realize this is a huge responsibility, but I stand firm in my faith, knowing that the Lord will direct me in all my decisions.
3. What is the #1 issue you hope to address if elected?
Student involvement! If a student is involved in any way, shape or fashion, that student feels wanted/valued/accepted in whatever program they are a part of. The overall absentee rate at the Branson school system is at a staggering high, especially with students who are not involved in extracurricular activities. If students are not in their seats during the school day, they are not progressing on an academic level that is sufficient for student improvement. If a student is involved in extracurricular activities, they will feel the need to be present at school during school hours, thus their scores organically rising to new levels.
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?
I for one have been impressed/encouraged by the current sitting school board. Our current superintendent, Dr. Swafford has spent many years fighting for, and encouraging a new conference that Branson can be a part of. It was super exciting news that the “Ozark Mountain conference“ has come to fruition.
5. Is there anything you want to change or improve in that regard?
I’m excited to have the opportunity to come alongside of what’s already a well oil machine to give insight on what I’ve seen from a parental standpoint, as well as a community standpoint to help improve what’s already great with the school board.
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 member of the Branson School Board?
No need to change a single thing about the above question. My wife and I find it very important to instill faith, family, and the flag in the lives of our children. We are firm believers that we can do all things through Christ, who strengthens us, and we are very thankful for the men and women who have sacrificed to give us the freedoms that we have here in this amazing country. Furthermore, to the men and women who wear the blue stripe…right here in our home City of Branson, Missouri, thank you so much for the sacrifices that you make daily to keep us safe.
7. How would you define your political affiliation? Democrat, Republican, or other?