Jeff Ekstrom: 2023 candidate for Batavia Unit District 101 school board
Bio
Town: Batavia
Age on Election Day: 54
Occupation: Airline pilot
Employer: Not given
Previous offices held: None
Q&A
Q: Why are you running for this office, whether for reelection or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
A: I am running for Batavia school board because I believe the whole district should be doing better in its academic progress.
Q: What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum?
A: The role of the school board is to set the staff and students up for success.
Q: Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
A: I believe all the curriculum need their due attention.
Q: How do you view your role in confronting policy or curriculum controversies: provide leadership even if unpopular, give a voice to constituents - even ones with whom you disagree, or defer to state authorities?
A: I view this role as a good listener and communicator. Be a good problem solver and open for all inputs. Not only represent the community but also represent the school district.
Q: Concerns are growing regarding a new resurgence of the pandemic. If another massive outbreak of infectious disease occurs, what have we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic that will guide your decision making?
A: We need to slow things down and not do any knee jerk reactions. Keep the students in school as long as possible and have outreach to those students that can't attend school. Work with all state and local officials to make sure the students and staff are safe.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement and manage school district policy? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions of your school board.
A: I have been held different leadership positions at my airline's pilot union. Over my 30 plus years flying airplanes, I have worked with many different pilots. I have learned to listen well, take in all input, have a conversation, and come up with a plan. Sometimes another "set of eyes" helps and being open to all ideas can make a difference.
If elected to the Batavia school board, I will always have an open-door policy. Listen and communicate effectively with all from parents, students, and staff.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: Being a parent who has students attending the school and who wants to give back by stepping up.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
A: Make sure the students with special needs have best access to resources that the state and federal governments offer. To make sure they have all they need to be successful.