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Lori Windels’ responses focused on closing the achievement gap between white and minority students in St. Paul schools. She supported school choice and JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) programs in schools. She also supports funding more programs for students by taking money from programs that aren’t needed, but added that “if in fact we need more money, I feel comfortable as a conservative to go to the legislature and ask for more money.”

Terry Lake continually mentioned that he is a product of public schools, a steel worker and a concerned parent, and wants “to listen to people and do the direction the people want me to do.” He supported the benefits of JROTC in schools, and wants to get everyone together to make sure schools are properly financed, bringing all St. Paul schools up to the same level.

Rebecca Williamson focused on the all-encompassing effects of the capitalist economic crisis, and the effects of war on education. She argued that education hasn’t been a priority, and said we “ultimately need to make a revolution to get the education we deserve.”

Tom Goldstein mentioned that he takes pride in his DFL endorsement, and explained that he got involved because he cares. He said it is “naĢve to assume the [JROTC program] isn’t about recruitment,” but added that some kids do benefit from the program.

Goldstein believes that new and better leadership is an important problem for the school board, and that
there are a number of things college-aged students and parents can do to help improve local schools.
John Brodrick is a product of St. Paul schools, has taught in St. Paul schools, and has children who attended St. Paul schools. Brodrick was in favor of a new CEO-like superintendent capable of working with the board to manage the schools’ $550 million budget.

He said, “schools must be welcoming places for all parents,” maintaining that he will “continue to seek input from the community” if re-elected.

Elona Street-Stewart is currently serving as the chair of the St. Paul School Board and believes in working collaboratively between jurisdictions and addressing the racial and economic disparities in the system. She believes in a “rigorous, standards-based, culturally enhanced curriculum.” She stated that she is “commited to being a champion for children.”

After the forum, candidates remained in the room to speak with audience members. The forum was coordinated by the Office of Service Learning and Volunteerism.