Sharon Kipka
Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.
I was raised on a century old diary farm about 2 ½ miles west of Gilman. I've been a member of this wonderful rural Foley area community all of my life, and a member of the Foley Board of Education for the last 8 years. I've been married to my husband Butch for almost 40 years. We are parents of one son, Nick. I have a strong business background and currently work part-time at the Target East Pharmacy. After Nick attended St. Cloud Technical College to further his education he and his father have become business partners.
What experience do you have that prepares you for public office?
- Serving on the Board of Education for 8 years, holding every position including chair.
- Being a member of the Foley District Advisory Committee on Curriculum and Standards for 20 years. This is the heart of our work. It's what we teach.
- Serving on the Benton County Economic Development Committee.
- Being a member of St. Peter and Paul Parish, Gilman where I serviced on the Parish Council and as a religion instructor until taking office as Foley school board member.
- Being a Foley Athletic Booster Club Member, a C.A.R.E volunteer, and Christian Mothers member.
Why did you decide to run for this office?
The first time I ran for the Board it was because I saw for myself the high quality education our son received within the Foley District. Eight years later I've gained a much broader view. Every learner that comes to the doors of District #51 deserves the same positive experience, and can have it with the combined efforts of student, parents, administrators, staff, board, and community. I want for them the same opportunities that our Nick had.
Top three issues you would tackle, if elected.
- See our building project completed in a positive manner that makes the Foley Community proud.
- Make the best use of our resources, both financial and personal, in ways that truly put learners first.
- To be the best possible listener to the community's hopes and concerns for their schools.