Three candidates introduce school board campaigns during public comment

Three people used public-comment time at the Feb. 11 Common Council meeting to introduce themselves as candidates in the April school board election and describe priorities.

Pat Toney said she has lived in New London for more than 44 years, described professional experience as a registered nurse and licensed professional counselor and said she wants the district to serve as a hub for addressing student needs so every child can reach their potential. "All children are entitled to a good education," Toney said, and she asked for votes on April 1.

Incumbent Holly Schweitzer said she is running for a second term, described herself as a mother with children in the district and said she ran initially during COVID as a frustrated parent who wanted more transparency. She said she supported keeping FFA programming intact, backing female athletes and spending ESSER funds on one-time items rather than recurring expenses. "Our females deserve a fair chance," Schweitzer said, and she said she would continue prioritizing transparency and fiscal responsibility.

Andy Thorpe said he grew up in New London, is involved in local youth programs and is running for school board to give parents a larger voice in issues including sports and curriculum. He told the council he would press for protections for girls' sports and would look to strengthen high-school technical education programs. Thorpe said he coached a T-ball team and supports retaining competitive pay to keep teachers.

All three asked for support in the April school board election; none requested any council action.