Candidates running for positions on the Syracuse School Board were asked to fill out questionnaires ahead of the Nov. 5 election.
Read their responses below to get to know the candidates.
Name: Tyler Kreifels
Age: 36
Family info: Married with 2 Children ages 9 and 7
Education: Graduate of SDA class of 2006, Graduate of Southeast Community College June 2008 (Associates of Applied Sciences in Architectural Engineering)
Occupation: REALTOR®, Associate Broker & Team Leader for TK Realty Group of Burrows Tracts Real Estate
What do you view as some of the challenges facing the SDA school district?
One of the biggest challenges SDA is currently facing, and will continue to face into the near future, is staffing. A significant number of our staff members are nearing retirement, and finding qualified replacements for these positions is becoming increasingly difficult. The overall shortage of applicants means that we are not only working hard to recruit new hires, but also to attract candidates who are capable of upholding Syracuse’s longstanding tradition of providing students with excellent education and opportunities for their future.
What do you think are the district’s greatest strengths or assets?
Some of SDA’s greatest strengths lie in the recent addition of talented, younger principals at both the Elementary and Middle School levels. We have a strong leader in our High School as well giving SDA a very strong and well rounded staff at the top. I’m hopeful they will stay long-term, continuing to guide and support our students. The district is also making a strong effort to increase community involvement, with administration taking part in events beyond school-sanctioned functions. We’re growing into our new motto, “the Rocket family,” which reflects our commitment to unity and support. Overall, I believe the district is taking the right steps to provide both students and the community with the best opportunities for continued growth and success.
If elected to the SDA Board of Education, what are your top three priorities?
1. **Student Achievement and Well-Being**: Ensuring that students receive a high-quality education and opportunities, no matter their background should be a top priority. This includes promoting academic excellence, supporting mental and emotional well-being, and providing access to resources and opportunities that prepare students for their futures.
2. **Staff Recruitment and Retention**: Addressing the challenges of staffing is crucial, especially with experienced staff retiring. I want to prioritize recruiting, developing, and retaining qualified educators and staff who can maintain high standards and contribute to a positive learning environment.
3. **Community Engagement and Transparency**: Building strong relationships between the school district and the community is essential. This includes fostering open communication, encouraging community involvement, and ensuring transparency in decision-making to maintain trust and collaboration with parents, students, and local supporters.
What unique qualities, strengths or experience would you bring to the SDA Board of Education?
As a past graduate of SDA, along with my wife, I bring a valuable outside perspective to the school board. I can critically assess whether what is being presented is truly the best option for the district moving forward.
With a background in construction, specifically working on large-scale projects, I am also an asset when it comes to the school’s facilities. I understand the maintenance needs and future infrastructure requirements of the district, which can translate into better planning and more effective budgeting for future projects.
Additionally, my career keeps me actively engaged in the community and surrounding areas. This involvement allows me to be approachable, providing a comfortable space for people to share both positive feedback and concerns about the district. By fostering open communication, I aim to ensure that the community’s voice is heard, and that important insights and observations are brought back to the board, strengthening our efforts to improve the district.
Why did you choose or what made you decide to run for SDA Board of Education?
I’ve had the opportunity to serve on several planning committees recently, including the district’s Strategic Planning Group. This committee is focused on ensuring the district continues to move in the right direction over the next 5 to 7 years. I was also involved in rewriting our new school motto, which was a motivating factor in my decision to run for the school board. I wanted a more direct role in shaping the district’s future and felt my unique background could offer a fresh perspective in the decision-making process.
I want to ensure our high standard of education not only continues but strengthens, creating more opportunities for students. In particular, I want to support and highlight the growing number of trade job opportunities. These should be given the same attention and value as other educational pathways, as they are becoming increasingly important in today’s job market.
Name: Aaron Lessmann
Age: 43
Family info: Wife – Laura (Pella) Lessmann, 4 kids – Will 7th grade, Lucy 5th grade, Elsie 1st grade, Hattie Pre-K
Education: Graduate from Winside (NE) Public School, Bachelor’s degree from University of Nebraska-Kearney (Double major in Business Administration & Sports Administration, Minor in Geography)
Occupation: Business professional; Head of Digital Marketing & Strategy for Intuit Quickbooks
What do you view as some of the challenges facing the SDA school district?
Overall, I feel the school district is very well-positioned and in a very competitive standing. But like many school districts, I know we’ll continue to need to emphasize recruitment and retention of teachers and staff. Our district will also need to continue our long-range planning efforts across technology, curriculum, and facilities and buildings, all the while ensuring deliberate and well-planned fiscal responsibility.
What do you think are the district’s greatest strengths or assets?
First and foremost, it’s the people. The level of community partnership and participation from our school, local organizations, churches, and our parents is very solid. Generally, it’s all the aspects that attract families (like mine) and retain families here. The alignment of purpose and common beliefs in outcomes for our students continues to be an advantage for us. There’s a shared sense of competitiveness and having a high bar for what the collective can do together. Our teachers and staff are a key part of that and it’s a big reason why we continue to be competitive in all aspects of the educational journey.
If elected to the SDA Board of Education, what are your top three priorities?
My top priority is to listen and learn. It’s the same effective approach that I’ve used in joining different leadership teams and governance groups in my career and life. I greatly respect and admire the work that has been put in by the prior board, administration, and teachers. From there, I can learn where I can best participate and help make a difference by adding my expertise. And as an experienced business professional, I will always emphasize clear two-way communications with all of our stakeholders and adherence to fiscal responsibility.
What unique qualities, strengths or experience would you bring to the SDA Board of Education?
I have a deep belief in the importance and necessary commitment to education. As a proud product of a small-town, rural upbringing (Winside, NE, pop. 381), I know the importance a sound local school has on its community. I bring a depth of experience from my professional background in strategy, administration, planning, and operations in a competitive setting. I have direct experience working on, and working with, a variety of boards ranging from the local and regional levels to the corporate level, all of which have applicable learnings to this opportunity. And with being an established leader within a business setting, I see every day the skills, qualities, and character it takes for our students to be successful in their future careers. And I can quickly connect the advantages that Syracuse can provide our students to be successful, not just professionally, but in life as well. Lastly, I have the conviction it takes to maintain high standards on culture and performance, to manage through change, and to influence positive outcomes for all our stakeholders.
Why did you choose or what made you decide to run for SDA Board of Education?
Overall, I’m deeply interested in seeing our school district maximize its potential for all its stakeholders. As a proud and active member of our community, this is an important opportunity to help and serve within our school district. I fully embrace the work and any challenges that may lie ahead. I’m confident that I can contribute to the board in a valuable way based on my qualities and experiences.
Is there something we didn’t ask that you would like us to know?
I would just emphasize my belief in the special place that we’re in. We have good parents. We have good kids. We’re fortunate to be in a community of supportive constituents, caring neighbors, welcoming local churches, supportive surrounding towns, and active local organizations. All of which have mutual interest and a beneficial relationship with a strong local school. It all sets up for a very positive environment but also one that we must actively work to maintain. I’m unbiasedly and independently dedicated to ensuring Syracuse maintains and expands on the special place that it is.
Name: Kathryn (Kathy) Szczepaniak Age: 69 Family Information: My son and his family (Erik, Ashonte, Russell and Lyla Thomas) live in Syracuse. My daughter and her family (Lori, Jordan and Will Dumke) live in South Dakota. I’m married to Tom Szczepaniak and we are residents of Syracuse.
Education: Bachelor of Science degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University. Bachelor of Science degree in Education from University of Nebraska Omaha. Master of Science degree in School Administration from University of Nebraska Omaha.
Occupation: I am a retired Elementary Principal. I spent 30+ years in education.
What do you view as some of the challenges facing the SDA school district? I believe that one of the biggest challenges we will face is hiring and retaining quality teachers. Unfortunately, we do not have the large number of candidates for teaching positions as we did several years ago. After retiring, I spent several years supervising and evaluating student teachers through UNO. We could barely keep up with the large number of students wanting to teach. However, in the last two years that number has decreased dramatically. The SDA school district will be competing with all the other districts around us when trying to hire the best candidates. We will need to make sure that our salary packages and benefits will draw teachers to our community. Once we have our new hires it will be important to provide them with mentoring and staff development for their transition into our community. We want them to like it here and feel at home.
Another challenge I believe our school district will face is carefully managing our funds in order to assure that we maintain and improve our aging buildings. It is crucial that we keep our buildings safe, accessible and clean. Updates can be made with remodeling, updating, or simply refurbishing existing areas. All of this will require sufficient funding. I’ve visited schools that are 100 years old and look and run extremely well. I’ve also visited schools that are 20 years old and look tired and run down. We want our teachers and students to be proud of their school, and with proper maintenance this can be accomplished.
What do you think are the district’s greatest strengths or assets? One of the greatest strengths is our students and their families. People in this community take pride in their school and the accomplishments of their children. Parents attend conferences, support school events, and volunteer when needed. SDA has a very active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) that provides resources and funding for school related projects. Our students treat one another with respect and are learning to be responsible citizens. Behavior expectations are clear and reinforced by both school personnel and parents. One of our biggest assets is our staff. Like educators everywhere, SDA teachers work diligently to provide our students with positive learning experiences. They challenge the students to do their best. They get to know each child and value relationships. Teachers also provide opportunities for students to participate in all types of extracurricular activities through coaching or sponsoring clubs and organizations. In a smaller community, like ours, it takes everyone to make a school run smoothly, and SDA teachers and staff are willing to do their part.
If elected to the SDA Board of Education, what are your top three priorities?
–Hiring and Maintaining Quality Teachers
-MaintainingUpdating Safe, Accessible and Clean Buildings
-Upholding the Values of our Community
What unique qualities, strengths or experience would you bring to the SDA Board of Education? I worked in education for over 30 years. I was a Counselor, a Social Worker, Administrator of an alternative high school, and an Elementary Principal. After these experiences I definitely know and understand what it takes to run a school district. I’ve had experience in budgeting, program planning, policy making, hiring, curriculum development and more. As a principal I basically had to know everything about running my building.
I have performed well in leadership roles. I am a good listener and have excellent communication skills. I am very diplomatic when dealing with conflict and have a calm demeanor. My former staff members would tell you that I am very approachable and treat everyone with respect.
Why did you choose or what made you decide to run for SDA Board of Education? I am passionate about education! I chose my career because I wanted to be involved in the lives of children. I stayed in my career because I have always believed that my role is to be a servant to others. After retiring and moving to Syracuse I have been looking for my next endeavor to serve others. When I heard there was an opening on the School Board it struck me that this would be a natural fit for me. I am retired and have TIME to give back to the community. I am still PASSIONATE about education and want to ensure that my grandchildren and all of the students in our community have a great place to learn and grow.
I would be honored to SERVE the SDA community by being a member of the Board of Education
Name: Amy Wemhoff
Age: 52
Family info: I am married to Kevin Wemhoff, and we have two children, Nate (16) and Natalee (14). We own and operate Vantage Agri Service.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development/Elementary Education; Master of Science in Elementary Counseling; Master of Science in Elementary Administration
Occupation: Adjunct College Professor and Student Teacher Supervisor
Previous Occupations: 2nd Grade Teacher (5 years), Elementary School Counselor (5 years) and Elementary Principal (14 years)
What do you view as some of the challenges facing the SDA school district?
One challenge currently facing our district is the low number of applicants for open teaching and staff positions. If we want to maintain high level quality programs, we need to have larger applicant pools. Another obvious ongoing challenge is the budget; managing the wants and needs of the district. Within the current economic climate, balancing the proper funds within staff salaries, potential benefits, educational programs, staff development and facilities is paramount.
What do you think are the district’s greatest strengths or assets?
SDA teachers, families and students are our greatest strengths. Many of our students are involved and active in clubs, sports, music, and extracurricular activities. When students are involved, they are more likely to be successful. Parent teacher conferences are well attended. Over 95% of elementary and middle school parents attended conferences this fall! SDA is in excellent academic standing and students typically score higher than their peers throughout the state. One-to-one technology for students in middle school and high school is also a strength within our school district. Additionally, our community and local businesses support our school in a big way and that is an amazing asset that SDA can be proud!
If elected to the SDA Board of Education, what are your top three priorities?
*High academic standards: Having high academic standards is significant to the success of a school district. Curriculum initiatives can often be a challenge. Staying on top of current educational trends, offering advanced level courses in our high school, providing opportunities for skills involving the trades, and making sure life skill experiences are happening within our schools are all aspects that help students be successful. Additionally, maintaining smaller class sizes at the elementary level is crucial to creating a solid foundation for our young learners.
*Teacher retention: Retaining quality teachers is important. Losing experienced teachers has a direct impact on student learning along with the leadership and experience within the activities and clubs they lead.
*Maintaining facilities: Maintaining facilities in a fiscally responsible manner is essential. Vigilance when planning for the future is a crucial priority. It is important that our district continues to be a welcoming place where staff and families want to live and grow.
What unique qualities, strengths or experience would you bring to the SDA Board of Education?
Education has always been my passion. I have been a teacher and principal and have walked in those shoes. I can bring 27 years of educational experience and perspective to the table which is a unique characteristic for a school board. I have served on our local SDA strategic planning team and helping to create those goals for our district was a valuable experience. I am currently working with Peru State, UNL and Doane University supervising student teachers within their teacher education programs. This experience has allowed me to stay in tune with the different educational happenings within our state. Additionally, my husband and I own an agricultural based business in this community and I know how important it is to understand the current challenges facing this industry at this time. I believe my experience and education together will be an asset serving on a school board.
Why did you choose or what made you decide to run for SDA Board of Education?
Education is the foundation of a successful future. I want to be a member of the SDA School Board because I would like to play a more active role in making decisions regarding the education of our students. As a parent of SDA children and an active member in the community, it is important to me to help give input in the direction in which our district is moving. It is important to have balance among members of a school board. With my educational background and career history, I can bring insight that can be valuable when making decisions. I also want to help continue to make SDA a place that students want to attend, teachers want to be and a place that parents want to support and be involved.
Is there something we didn’t ask that you would like us to know?
I am currently on the SDA School Board, due to a midterm vacancy this past spring. I was appointed to the board through a selection and interview process that looked at strengths, community involvement and experience. I also believe that being fortunate enough to advance my career through three different positions within the same school district in which I was employed helps me bring an incredibly unique set of skills and perspective to the board. I would be honored to earn your vote and continue serving our community.
Name: Brianne Neemann Wilhelm
Age: 43
Family info: Married to Marcus for 21 years with three children: Charlie (Sophomore), Oliver (5th), and Hazel (1st).
Education: Graduate of SDA Public Schools in 1999; BA in Art and Design from Simpson College, 2003
Occupation: Interior Designer with D3 Interiors in Omaha
What do you view as some of the challenges facing the SDA School District?
1 – The nationwide teacher shortage is a result of teachers feeling undervalued and underpaid with increasingly challenging working conditions. This issue has hit many districts in Nebraska very hard. SDA is a bit protected due to our convenient location and good reputation. We must continue to support our teachers and staff and ensure we are offering a salary and benefits package that is the best we can afford and competitive with our neighboring districts. We can also continue partnerships to make SDA and the Syracuse Community a great place to work, play, and live in order to attract teachers and families. “It takes a village!”
2 – SDA has shown some amazing improvements in the past several years to our math competency scores and we just implemented a new ELA Curriculum for K-12, which has been an adjustment for teachers but will offer consistency and growth across all grade levels. The core subject areas will always remain a priority focus, but we have room for improvement in the non-core subject areas including (but not limited to) K-7 art education and HAL (high ability learner) opportunities. Providing diverse, high-quality options for students to learn and be involved is critical to developing the whole student. We need teachers and staff willing to take on the work of developing these programs with an already challenging and full work load and we must be able to provide the resources financially to support these programs.
What do you think are the District’s greatest strengths or assets?
We have passionate, creative teachers and staff who love kids, support each other, and put students first time and again. Our SPED and MTSSB programs are meeting students where they are and challenging them to grow and succeed, whatever that looks like to them. Our community and parent support is incredible. We are lucky to have a community that understands that parent/community involvement enriches the student experience and also acknowledges that education is one of the greatest investments you can make in a child. Our PTO is incredibly supportive of teachers and their mission to improve learning. The current Board of Education is a diverse representation of our community with varying career experiences and perspectives; we care deeply about the success of the District and the education experience of our students.
If elected to the SDA Board of Education, what are your top three priorities?
1 – I am currently serving on the Negotiations Committee for the first time, so this is an area of personal growth and learning. I want to support the process in the best way possible to ensure the best outcomes for our District and staff.
2 – Following the Legislature’s special session this summer and all the discussions around reducing the tax burden and school finance, ensuring our District is set up for success and can continue to be financially secure and retain local control is a priority. Engaging the Legislature and building a more personal relationship with our new District 1 Senator is a personal goal so that we can work more as a team to ensure public education remains strong and participate in discussions surrounding property tax relief in Nebraska.
3 – Continue to push forward with the goals outlined in the District’s Strategic Plan, which will include celebrating the things we’ve achieved to date, revising certain areas, and adding to the plan to continue to challenge the District.
What unique qualities, strengths or experience would you bring to the SDA Board of Education?
I’m a pretty passionate “do-er” and I work hard to keep conversations and ideas that have momentum moving forward.
I am always willing to be an open ear for any ideas or concerns.
Striking a balance between maintaining some consistency and knowledge and bringing in new and vibrant leaders with fresh perspectives will keep the board strong and healthy. Andy Burr is leaving with 20 years of knowledge and experience. As the current Vice President of the BOE, I have learned so much in my first term and hope to be able to continue to build on the things we’ve been doing to serve the District.
Why did you choose or what made you decide to run for SDA Board of Education?
Serving on the board for the past four years has been incredibly fulfilling. It has also been an extensive learning curve and I’ve grown tremendously in understanding how things work. I truly didn’t know what to expect when I first ran in 2020 and at times it’s a huge commitment but has been so rewarding to be a small part of a team that gets to make an impact. With three kids enrolled at SDA, I still feel very invested in the school and community; serving on the Board is a great way for me to be involved and give back.
Is there something we didn’t ask that you would like us to know?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to myself, Mr. Kraus, or any other board member to share your thoughts and ideas. Also, join us for a BOE meeting sometime. The more engaged we are as citizens, the better our community will be. I also want to re-emphasize how lucky we are to live in the Syracuse community. There are so many volunteers who work hard to make this a great place to live, work, play, and learn. Thank you to all of you who serve in so many big and small ways! Your efforts do not go unnoticed.
Information compiled by Wendy Werner.
