Chanz Keeney
Age: 36
Family: Wife, Christy; children, Kayleen and Blake.
Occupation: Logger (feller-buncher operator).
Education: Sweet Home High School diploma; Linn-Benton Community College, general studies; Central Community College, forestry technology degree.
Prior Government Service: None.
Why did you decide to run for the School Board?
“I have a third-grade daughter at Holley School and a kindergarten boy at Little Promises. He will be at Holley next year in the first grade. I would like to be involved with their public education and policy making.”
What are your three top priorities, the top issues concerning School District 55?
“One, quality education for every child.
“Two, confidence from the public that their needs and wishes are being met by School District 55.
“Three, local spending on the ground basics of education.”
What can you do to address them?
“Give the residents of School District 55 a fresh ear to talk to about their concerns and work with the superintendent and other School Board members to meet the needs of the community.”
Lack of funding is consistently raised as a problem for public education. Is it a problem? If so what can be done about it?
“I believe you have to work with the money that is available, make sure the basics are taken care of first then see what you have left over. If the population feels the schools are spending their money wisely, they might donate for special needs.”
The School District has been asked to fund half of a police resource officer, but by election time, the question should be resolved for the 2007-08 school year. Do you support such a concept? Why? Are there other steps the district can take to minimize criminal and behavioral issues, keeping schools safe?
“If the district would have enough extra money, yes. If not, no. I believe by working with the existing policies and rules that a lot more could be done. Enforce the rules in the books before we make new ones.”
Last year, the School Board considered a proposal to implement a “school-based health clinic” at the high school, ultimately turning it down. Do you support such clinics?
“I do not know enough about this to give an opinion.”