Four candidates are running for two seats on the East Clinton school board. Here are their responses to questions from the News Journal.

KELLI DEBOLD JAMISON

Age: 42

I am an East Clinton graduate whose parents, aunts, uncles, cousins and oldest daughter all graduated from East Clinton. I have two children currently attending East Clinton Schools. I am connected to the school in many ways and care about East Clinton and how it grows, changes and improves.

I have been married for 14 years and have 3 children. Since graduating from East Clinton in ’95, I have lived in Maryville Tenn., Beechmont (Cincinnati), and Gahanna (east of Columbus). During the time I was away from the Sabina/New Vienna area I attended two different colleges and my children attended pre-school and elementary school. Through this I was able to see firsthand how other schools operate. I feel this will be a valuable asset if I am elected to the East Clinton School board.

I am very active in the school; I volunteer at the elementary in my children’s classrooms and attend all activities and theme parties that I am able. I have also coached many youth programs over the last several years including girls and boy’s youth basketball and high school volleyball.

Education has always been very important to me. I have two degrees and would go back to school if I had time. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a Professional Engineering License in Water Resources. I am a Manufacturers Representative and sell equipment for water and wastewater treatment. I work on new and upgraded treatment plants from design though construction and start up.

I have a lot of respect and admiration for the current board members and their dedication to the school. They have given many hours to our school system and our children. That said with two spots coming open it is an opportunity to add new perspective and point of view to the experience we currently have on the board. I believe my life experiences will allow me to add that new perspective and be a great addition to the school board.

I firmly believe the best thing we can do for our children is to educate them and give them the tools to be successful … I hope to be able to do this as part of the East Clinton School Board!

JANIELLE RUNYON

Age: 37

My name is Janielle Runyon and I am running for East Clinton Board of Education. I am married to Todd Runyon (17 years) and have two children; Landon (10th grade) and Lauren (8th grade). I am an East Clinton graduate (class of 2000). My parents are also EC Alumni: Roger McCord (class of 1981), Brandy McCord (class of 1988), Judy Croghan (class of 1982) and Kevin Croghan (class of 1976). My activities while I was in school included EC FFA, yearbook staff, choir and many sports. I graduated from Southern State Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting and then obtained my Cosmetologist License at Warren County Career Center. I currently work at Salon Mane as an Independent Contractor. Prior to this I worked at R&L Carriers for 11 years in customer service and later as the Administrative Assistant for the CFO while working in the Accounting department. Through my career in accounting and experience running my own business, I have the ability to work well with others while being open minded, make important decisions that affect all involved and I have critical financial experience.

I am an active member of New Vienna United Methodist Church. I have been a Sunday school teacher, a youth group leader, member of the woman’s groups, head of our vacation bible school and a current member of the trustees. These positions have given me the ability to lead, research, and make critical decisions that affect the church and the youth.

Each of the things I’ve mention above I feel give me great experiences to bring to the table as a board of education member. Being able to listen critically and objectively, conduct appropriate research, while continuing to learn and discuss issues that apply with all parties before a decision is made. I understand that all decisions the board makes need to serve the best interest of all parties involved; students, staff and the community. Keeping the Kids First in every decision we make is a top priority of mine. I want to make a difference at East Clinton, continue to push each individual in the district to do their best and reach for their dreams. I understand the reputation of the district is reflected by my behavior and attitude.

KASEY SMITH

My name is Kasey Smith. I am originally from Washington Court House. I am a 2001 graduate of Miami Trace High School. I then attended Black Hawk East Junior College and received a bachelor degree from Western Illinois University in 2005. While at both schools I was a member of the livestock judging teams, in which we got to travel nationally and make lots of great connections within the industry. It was during my senior year of college that I met Laura Geer from New Vienna. We married in 2006 and moved back to her family farm. We have 3 children, Wade a fifth grader, Owen a second grader, Gwen a preschooler, who are involved within the East Clinton School District.

I am a field claims specialist for Rural Community Insurance Services, an auctioneer/real estate agent for the Wendt Group and help my father in law manage our 60 sow swine operation. I have been very involved in the community, since coming to the area, trying to be and active citizen and parent. I have served as president for the New Vienna Lions club and currently am an active member, currently serve on the Clinton County Swine Committee, am a 4-H advisor for the New Vienna Buckeyes, member on the OH-Pigs show circuit board, current president of the Ohio Duroc Association and have helped coach numerous youth sports teams in the district. I also am an active member of the New Vienna United Methodist Church.

I look to be a solid representative of the East Clinton School Board, by increasing communication between parents, teachers and students, which I feel is imperative. I want to be accessible for suggestions, build upon the concepts that have made our school successful, and bring fresh ideas to keep moving our schools forward. With doing this I want to always keep our main focus on a solid education and preparing our students the best we can to meet the open world. With students who are prepared and a community that is involved our schools at East Clinton can be that standard of excellence that students are proud to call home. Help me move East Clinton forward on November 5th.

AMY ZIMMERMAN

Age: 42

As a resident, parent, and local business owner in the community, I look forward to the opportunity to serve on the East Clinton School Board. I will be a strong and vocal advocate for high quality education for our current and future students. I plan to use my leadership, organizational, and communication skills to make informed, timely decisions and communicate outcomes with the district — including staff, parents, and community members. Additionally, I plan to focus on gathering information about key needs for our district in order to prioritize initiatives and foster positive growth and development.

As the mother of both an East Clinton alumna and a current 8th grader, I have a vested interest in preserving and improving the quality of our school system. It is the backbone of our community.

I clearly see the need for positive change and growth within our district in all levels, from academic instructions and leadership to sports and extracurriculars activities.

We are shaping the minds of our future generations through education & direction both within & beyond the classroom walls, and it will take a strong voice asking questions and organizing priorities. With my entrepreneurial background, I can also provide assistance in all business and financial aspects.

While we have work to do and challenges to overcome, I will continue to foster growth & sustainability within our schools. Thank you for the consideration.