In a recent school board candidate forum in Worthington, several candidates expressed their commitment to enhancing education and community engagement within the district. The event featured candidates Darla Agard, Eric Parrish, Kristen Walerius, Anne Mills, and Matt Whitboom, each sharing their backgrounds and visions for the future of the school district.

Darla Agard, who has a background in education technology, emphasized the importance of building relationships between the community and schools. She highlighted her commitment to fiscal transparency and ensuring that financial decisions prioritize students' needs. Agard expressed her desire to give back to the community that shaped her educational journey.

Eric Parrish, a long-time educator, shared his personal connection to the district and his belief in the potential for improvement. He called for rebuilding trust between the school board and the community, advocating for accountability and transparency in financial matters.

Kristen Walerius, who has spent over a decade in local schools, spoke passionately about the importance of supporting teachers to ensure student success. She underscored the need for strong communication between the school board, teachers, and the community.

Anne Mills, a former school board member, highlighted her extensive experience in public education and her dedication to advocating for the best possible outcomes for students. She expressed her eagerness to return to the board and contribute to the district's growth.

Matt Whitboom, a local farmer and community volunteer, shared his long-standing ties to Worthington and his commitment to serving the community. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in education and his desire to continue serving on the school board.

The forum also addressed the recent failure of a referendum aimed at funding significant improvements to the high school, with candidates discussing the need for strategic planning moving forward. The candidates' collective focus on transparency, community engagement, and educational excellence resonated with attendees, reflecting a shared vision for the future of Worthington's schools.