Q: Have you received any donations or endorsements from any group(s)?
A: No. I'm running a grassroots campaign based on wanting to give back to my community. Word of mouth and free resources are my key strategy.
Hello! I’m Michelle Rayburn, and with a commitment to giving back to our community, I introduce myself as a candidate for the New Auburn School Board.
Having grown up on a farm in Central Wisconsin, I learned the importance of hard work from an early age, which instilled in me values that have guided my journey. For the past 18 years, our family has proudly called New Auburn home. As a parent of two New Auburn High School graduates who have now chosen to give back as educators within the district, my connection to our schools is deeply personal.
Education
My own educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UWEC and a Master of Arts in leadership from Crown College. Currently, I am self-employed as a full-time freelancer and business owner in the writing and publishing industry. I edit books, design covers, and format book interiors. I'm also a published author, podcaster and public speaker, and a coach to other indie authors. Additionally, I serve as the vice chair of a curriculum advisory committee for the Professional Communications degree at Chippewa Valley Technical College, where I’ve served since 2016.
I’m grateful for the opportunities provided by my education and continued professional learning. I graduated from Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln High School in 1987 with a class of 535 in a high school of over 2000 students. In contrast, from the time they started school, my children had the wonderful benefit of attending a smaller school. We moved to New Auburn when they were in middle school, and we saw how the close-knit community fosters a sense of belonging and support that extends beyond the classroom. Students have the opportunity to build meaningful connections with their peers and teachers, creating a more personalized and nurturing learning environment.
Small-Town Heart
The relationships formed contribute to a strong sense of community pride, where everyone is known by name. Additionally, students benefit from a greater chance to participate in various extracurricular activities, allowing them to explore their interests and talents in a supportive and inclusive setting. Each student is valued not just as a learner, but as an integral part of a tight-knit educational family, fostering a sense of camaraderie that enhances the overall educational experience. I believe in the power of that community for our students, and I want to see that continue. Passionate about making a difference for the next generation, my goal is to inspire hope for the future.
Family
I'm married to my high school sweetheart, Phil, for 34 years, a mom to two married sons, and a grandmother to four.
Top Strengths
My top Clifton-Strengths qualities include Achiever, Ideation, Learner, Input, and Strategic. I’ll put those qualities along with my leadership skills to use as a school board member.
I am organized and efficient in both work and volunteer activities. Having dedicated over three decades to various church leadership and community roles, I am excited about the opportunity to support and advocate for our students, staff, and teachers. I’ll bring creative problem-solving, listening skills, curiosity, and thoughtful, informed decision-making to the table.
Why I'm Running for School Board:
My only agenda is to be part of continuing the wonderful work established by the school board—their passion to provide opportunities for local students to dream big and have a bright future. I am eager to contribute to the continued success of our school board and to be a voice for the aspirations of our young minds. Thank you for supporting me with your vote!
Q and A
Q: Aren't you related to two of the teachers at school?
A: I am. Ethics is a high value for me, and I pledge to uphold the Code of Ethics for school board members, which includes abstaining from discussions or votes with any potential conflict of interest or the appearance thereof.
Q: As a newcomer to the school board, what would your first action be?
A: Listening and learning. I guess that's two! I want to be curious and ask thoughtful questions, to be supportive, and to provide creative ideas while seeking to understand first, and then act.
Q: Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of?
A: My goal is not to push a personal agenda but to act for the benefit of the school. Once a board decision has been made, I commit to supporting the unity of the board for the good of students and our school community.
Responses to Ballotopedia Questions
Key
Ideas
1
I wholeheartedly support the invaluable connections forged between teachers, students, and peers in these small-town, rural educational settings. The sense of community fostered within small schools cultivates a personalized and nurturing learning environment unlike any other. As a candidate, I am dedicated to championing the unique strengths of our school, ensuring it receives the support and resources necessary to thrive. Let's preserve and enhance the fabric of our local communities by empowering our small school to continue providing exceptional education and fostering strong bonds among all who walk its halls.
2
I firmly believe in the intrinsic value of public schools and their pivotal role in shaping our communities. Public schools are the cornerstone of our society, offering equal opportunities for education to every child regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. They foster a sense of belonging and community, nurturing young minds and preparing them to become informed, engaged citizens. I am committed to advocating for robust funding and resources to support our public schools, ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education that empowers them to reach their full potential. Together, we can strengthen our public education system and build a brighter future for generations to come.
3
I am committed to maintaining a balanced budget while also supporting the decision-making of our administrators regarding financial matters. I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility in ensuring the long-term sustainability of our educational system. At the same time, I firmly believe in investing financially in quality education for our students. Education is an investment in our future, and providing our students, staff, and teachers with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed is paramount. By striking a balance between fiscal discretion and strategic investment, we can ensure that every student receives the high-quality education they deserve, preparing them for success in an ever-changing world.
Candidate Questions
Q: What are the characteristics of an elected official?
A: Elected officials should embody the qualities of unbiased decision-making. It's imperative to me to maintain fairness and impartiality in every decision I make, ensuring that all perspectives are heard and valued without bias or favoritism. School board is a nonpartisan role. I am committed to transparency, openly communicating the reasoning behind each decision and welcoming input from all stakeholders. Upholding ethical standards and avoiding conflicts of interest is paramount, as I prioritize the public good above personal or political agendas. I want to approach every issue with integrity and humility, willing to reconsider my stance in light of new information or changing circumstances. Ultimately, I see myself as a steward of democracy, dedicated to serving the best interests of the community with fairness, integrity, and transparency.
Q: What is the role of a school board official?
A: Ultimately, school board members play a crucial role in shaping the direction and success of the district, working collaboratively to ensure all students receive a quality education. They hold pivotal responsibilities in guiding the vision and policies of the district, oversee budget allocation, ensure resources are used effectively to support district goals. Hiring and evaluating the superintendent and policymaking on matters such as curriculum and staff management are also included. School board members advocate for the needs of students and families while engaging with the community to build support and address concerns. They monitor district progress, ensuring accountability and compliance with legal requirements.
Q: What are the qualities you bring to the role?
A: My top Clifton-Strengths qualities include Achiever, Ideation, Learner, Input, and Strategic. I’ll put those qualities along with my leadership skills to use as a school board member.
I am organized and efficient in both work and volunteer activities. Having dedicated over three decades to various church leadership and community roles, I am excited about the opportunity to support and advocate for our students, staff, and teachers. I’ll bring creative problem-solving, listening skills, curiosity, and thoughtful, informed decision-making to the table.
Paid for by Michelle Rayburn for School Board
Authorized by Michelle Rayburn