Frields candidate for three-year term on Thompson Falls School Board

NAME: Ryan J. Frields

OCCUPATION: Business owner/counselor

1. What are your qualifications to be a school trustee?

I am a graduate of Thompson Falls High School, had two boys graduate Thompson Falls High School, currently have a daughter enrolled, been a high school coach, and own a small business in the district.

These areas may not “qualify” me to be a trustee, but have provided me with the insight to do what is best for the students educationally, support our staff/coaches/administration, and insure that community taxes are spent appropriately.

2. Why did you decide to run for election?

I have been a board member for a couple of terms and enjoy working with the teachers, administration, and public to continue helping the district move forward and provide the best education that is possible at the Thompson Falls Schools.

I have felt there are also a number of ideas/projects that we have been working on with the administration that I would like to see continue to grow and change.

3. What do you like about the school district?

It is a very unique school that I had the privilege of graduating from in 1995. Graduating from TFalls has probably given me a unfair view of our district, but I believe we are a very positive district that gives our students a great education and a ton of support.

We have teachers that really care about our students educationally and emotionally, counselors that give our students uplifting support, and a board/administration that strive to give our students the support they need to succeed.

4. What are your views on the use of technology?

Technology is growing and it is important that the school district grows with technology and uses it appropriately. Online classes, dual credit courses, 3-D printers, CNC/Plasma cutters, robotics, and of course the internet are all things that students at Thompson Falls are learning how to use.

As a board member, it is our responsibility to ensure that students learn how to use technology appropriately and listen to our staff/administration about what is new and needed.

5. What, if any, improvements do you feel are necessary?

I believe there is always room for improvement. Thompson Falls is in the process of hiring a new Superintendent and relationships will need to be built between the Superintendent, staff, board, and the community. Schools are always in a state of flux. Students graduate, teachers retire, and new people move into the district. Making sure everyone feels safe and has the support they need in the district always provides room for growth.

Technology is another area that continually provides an area that a school needs to improve upon. Better computers, faster internet, appropriate over-site, and insuring that we are providing the right curriculum educationally and technologically is an area that any district can improve upon.