Race includes 3 incumbents, 1 newcomer to board
Four candidates are vying for seats on the Giltner School Board in the General Election set for Nov. 5. The candidates who will be competing for the three open four-year seats on the school board include incumbents Joseph Happold, Brad Schutt, Michael Wilson and challenger Amanda Eastman.
The News-Register provided questions to the candidates asking them to share information about themselves, why they seek a position on the board of education and asking for details as to their plans to help the school district should they be elected or re-elected. The candidates and their responses are presented in alphabetical order:
Amanda Eastman
Tell us a little about yourself?
I am Amanda ‘Mandy’ Eastman. I grew up and graduated from Wolbach High School. In 2004 I moved to Giltner with my husband Jamey Eastman. We have five children, Landyn who lives in Giltner and works in Grand Island and is also a member of the Army National Guard, Hailey who is currently attending Chadron State College, Karly a junior, Jaxyn a freshmen and Avery a sixth grader, all at Giltner Public Schools.
I am starting my 11th year at Little Stingers Child Care, sixth year as the director. Prior to Little Stingers I worked for multiple years at the Sit N’ Bull and seasonal harvest at CPI of Giltner. I have been active in school and community activities for many years. I was a long-standing member of the Booster Club, Youth Ball Association, GADC and currently serve as an active member of the Giltner Public Schools Foundation.
Why are you running for this office?
I am running for school board to be an advocate for our community, students and teachers not only at the district level, but county and state levels as well.
What personal strengths and talents do you bring to the position?
Strengths and talents I have to bring to the district are I am a great “out of the box” thinker, open-minded, listen with the intent to hear not just to answer, knowledgeable in state legislation processes and have learned how to effectively communicate with our state elected officials.
What, in your view, are the top three issues facing the school district?
In my view, the top three priority issues are necessary improvements to the facility, student and community pride in our school and open lines of communications with all district members of happenings within the district.
What goals do you hope to accomplish while serving on the board?
Goals I would like to accomplish while serving on the board are to bring the community and school together as a whole, not just to fill the stands at athletic events, but the school as a whole.
Joseph Happold
Tell us a little about yourself?
Born and raised in the close-knit town of Giltner, I have always been deeply rooted in our community. My journey began at Giltner Public School, where I graduated and formed lifelong friendships. My wife Laura and I are now raising our four wonderful children, Mallory, Michael, Luke and Asher, right here in Giltner.
Why are you running for office?
Working as an engineering technician at Behlen Building Systems, I bring a problem-solving mindset to my role on the board of education, where I have proudly served for the past four years. My decision to run for the school board was fueled by a desire to give back to our school and community, which I believe has boundless potential.
What personal strengths and talents do you bring to the position?
I approach every issue with common sense, integrity and dedication, always prioritizing the district’s needs over my own beliefs.
What goals do you hope to accomplish while serving on the board?
Our goal is to equip our teachers and students with the tools they need to thrive and I am committed to doing everything I can to help them succeed.