By Bob Strohm
bstrohm@wbcowqel.com
Three of the five seats on the Buckeye Central Board of Education are on the November ballot and the school district held a Meet the Candidates night Thursday for the four candidates running for those seats.
With Kathy Wurm acting as moderator, candidates Beth Diesch, Steve Aicholtz, Bernie Kessler, and Chris Martin were given time to introduce themselves, along with answering three questions at a time limit of two minutes and a fourth question with a time limit of three minutes.
The candidates also had the opportunity to offer closing remarks. After the moderated discussion, candidates met with those in attendance in a more relaxed setting with refreshments.
With communication a big topic with the board of education and the public, the final question asked the candidates how they would improve communication.
Diesch answered by implementing better public relations about the school, updating modes of communication including getting the district into social media, and hold discussions with community leaders within the school district.
Aicholtz explained that he would try to let everyone know what is going on that can be possible. Aicholtz also said to come to the school board to get the straight answer.
Kessler highlighted that test scores are going up, but was leery about social media explaining that the district should be careful of new technology, but that there are things that are more important that need to be done before worrying about social media.
Martin explained social media is something that the district should look into, and can be monitored for content. Martin also explained that he wants to see the school district as a team, and that the candidates are here for the kids of the school district.
In candidates closing remarks, board incumbent Kessler explained that in attending meetings, and keeping updates with OSBA, he feels that the future could realize a county school board of education in charge of the county’s six schools with one representative from each school, and wants to continue on helping kids grow.
Martin wants to make Buckeye Central proud, and that when it is all said and done it is about the kids.
Aicholtz explained that if elected he will work hard at what the school has control over, and do the best job possible, and to try to keep the community informed.
Diesch thanked those who attended those who attended and wished that voters would vote for the three who they felt have the best skills, would best improve Buckeye Central.