Additional Q-and-A with Kim Ross

Here’s candidate Q-and-A content in addition to what appeared in EPLN’s print Voter Guide, mailed to Eden Prairie homes in early October. We are repeating the Voter Guide’s introduction of the candidate.

Kim Ross

Website: www.kimaross.com

Ross lives on Hiawatha Avenue and has lived in Eden Prairie for 40 years. She is seeking reelection after having served eight years on the Eden Prairie School Board during two different periods.

The marketing executive of 30-plus years has also spent two years as Eden Prairie’s representative on the Intermediate District 287 Board. Her other activities include involvement with the Eden Prairie School District Strategic Planning Committee, the Eden Prairie School District Referendum Committee, the Eden Prairie Noon Rotary Club and Rotary District 5950.

“With a passion for continuing education and commitment to listening to our community, I’m prepared to make decisions that support the success of each student,” said Ross.

Asked about endorsements or donations from groups, Ross stated: “The Eden Prairie School Board election is non-partisan, reflecting a commitment to focus on the best interests of each student rather than political affiliations. While I align more closely with the values of the Democratic Party, it’s important to emphasize that the parties do not officially endorse school board candidates. I have received a letter of support from the Senate District 49 Democratic Party, but I want to make it clear that I have not and will not accept any campaign donations from the party.”

EPLN: Eden Prairie Schools’ strategic plan calls for an “inclusive learning environment.” Should cultural awareness extend to school board members and, if so, what additional measures would you suggest?

ROSS: Cultural proficiency is essential for the school board to effectively advocate for every student in Eden Prairie. Our strategic plan emphasizes creating an “inclusive learning environment,” and this commitment must extend to the board itself. Currently, the board’s cultural training – just one session in the past four years – falls short of what’s needed, in my opinion. To genuinely embrace cultural awareness, I have and will continue to advocate for several key measures.

First, the board should actively engage with Eden Prairie’s diverse cultural communities. Leveraging the expertise of our district’s cultural liaisons and tapping into board members’ networks will help us connect with different communities and gain valuable insights.

Second, we need to schedule workshops focused on cultural proficiency. These sessions should include similar training as provided to district staff, ensuring that board members are well-versed in the frameworks and challenges related to cultural diversity.

Lastly, the board should systematically review its policies through a cultural lens to ensure they are inclusive and respectful of all cultures represented within our schools. This comprehensive approach will help us create a truly inclusive environment where every student and staff member feels valued and supported.

EPLN: Eden Prairie Schools has tightened its restrictions on student use of cell phones, but a small but growing number of states are going even further. Do you favor cell phone restrictions beyond what currently exists in Eden Prairie Schools?

ROSS: I believe our current policies are sufficient. Per the student handbooks, here are the current policies for Central Middle School and Eden Prairie High School:

Central Middle School –  Students may have their personal electronic device/cell phones at school as long as they are kept turned off and in their lockers during the school day. Students are not allowed to use personal devices at school unless they are explicitly invited to do so by a staff member for health or educational purposes. If a personal electronic device/cell phone becomes a distraction in any school environment, it will be confiscated, and we will follow our CMS cell phone policy.

Eden Prairie High School – During class, students may not access their cell phones or other personal electronic devices unless otherwise communicated by a staff member. The use of cell phones or other video recording devices in bathrooms and locker rooms is strictly prohibited.

High school students, in particular, benefit from the social connections their phones facilitate. 

These connections are crucial for their emotional development and well-being. A complete ban would disregard the opportunity to educate students on responsible cell phone use.

EPLN: How would you maintain impartiality and fairness, even when faced with issues that may conflict with your personal beliefs?

ROSS: As a member of the Eden Prairie School Board, impartiality and fairness are essential, especially when personal beliefs might conflict with the needs of the community. Our role is to represent all students and families across the city, not just specific groups or individual viewpoints. Maintaining fairness is not just a principle – it’s a fundamental responsibility of the office.

When faced with decisions that challenge personal beliefs, we must prioritize our oath of office, which mandates supporting the U.S. and Minnesota constitutions. For instance, the recent Access to Library Materials and Rights Protection law prohibits the removal of library materials based on their content. Even if personal beliefs might lean towards restricting certain books, which mine do not, it is our duty as board members to uphold this law.

In practice, this means setting aside personal biases and focusing on the broader mission of serving each student equitably. It involves listening to diverse perspectives, engaging in respectful dialogue, and making decisions that align with legal requirements and the best interests of the entire school community. Being impartial is not just an ideal; it’s a necessary approach to ensure all voices are heard and valued.

EPLN: Where do you see the Eden Prairie School District in the next 5 to 10 years?

ROSS: I envision the Eden Prairie School District continuing its legacy of innovation and excellence. During my previous term on the board, we focused on equipping students with essential 21st century skills – communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking. It’s gratifying to see how these skills have become integral to our curriculum and assessments.

Our current academic vision, initially known as “Designing Pathways” and now evolved into the “Inspired Journey,” has successfully fostered personalized learning, allowing students to explore their interests and develop their unique talents. This program is a testament to our commitment to providing a dynamic and responsive educational experience.

As we develop our academic vision for the next decade, it will be crucial to address emerging challenges and opportunities, such as leveraging artificial intelligence and preparing students for future job markets. We must also consider the sustainability of the environment and how we can ensure it remains viable for future generations.

The new academic vision will be shaped by community feedback, staff insights, student needs and research into K-12 education trends. Ultimately, I hope our mission remains steadfast – to inspire each student to learn continuously so they are empowered to reach personal fulfillment and contribute purposefully to our ever-changing world.