NameGreg Papin
What office are you running for?School Board
County, District/TownshipLinn County, Mount Vernon CSD
Address302 6th St NE
Mount Vernon, Iowa 52314
Map It
Phone(424) 522-2159
EmailEmail hidden; Javascript is required.
Are you currently the officeholder and seeking re-election?No
Is this your first time running for office?Yes
Election Date11/07/2023
Websitegregpapin.com
Social Media Handles

https://www.facebook.com/GregPapinIowa
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094206339535

KEY ISSUES
1. Provide the top 2 reasons why you want to run for school board?

1. I am running for the school board primarily because I believe in the importance of teaching our children to stand up for their Constitutional Rights. By inviting guest speakers who can provide valuable insights into our nation's founding principles and organizing events to commemorate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day annually, we can empower our students to understand and exercise their rights as responsible citizens. This emphasis on constitutional education will foster a culture of civic engagement and critical thinking, equipping our children with the tools they need to navigate an ever-changing world.

2. I am committed to promoting fiscal responsibility and financial accountability within the school district. Transparent budgeting practices will ensure that taxpayer dollars are allocated wisely and efficiently, while strategic resource allocation will prioritize investments in areas that directly benefit our students' academic development and well-being. By implementing long-term planning strategies, we can anticipate future needs and allocate resources accordingly, resulting in a more sustainable and effective educational system. Regular audits will provide essential oversight, ensuring that financial practices align with established guidelines and that every dollar is spent with maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Together, these measures will help build a financially responsible school district that optimizes resources for the benefit of our students and community.

2. Name the top 2 issues with your current school board or district and how you will address each issue.

1. Transparency is crucial in building trust and fostering open communication within our educational community. As a school board member, I will prioritize transparency by advocating for clear and accessible channels of information dissemination. This includes regular updates on board decisions, policies, and financial matters. I will actively engage with parents, teachers, and community members, ensuring that their voices are heard and that they have the necessary information to make informed decisions about their children's education.

2. The second issue is the need for greater parental involvement in the upbringing and educational material covered, as allowed by the constitution. I firmly believe that parents play a vital role in their children's education, and their involvement should be encouraged and valued. As a school board member, I will actively work to create avenues for increased parental engagement. This includes creating parent advisory committees, and establishing open lines of communication between parents and teachers. I will also advocate for policies that promote parental involvement, such as providing opportunities for parental feedback on curriculum development and encouraging parent-teacher collaboration.

3. Do you support school choice? Why or why not?

I wholeheartedly support school choice. I believe that parents should have the freedom to choose the educational options that best meet the needs of their children. School choice empowers families by providing them with a range of educational opportunities, including public, private, charter, and homeschooling options.
There are several reasons why I support school choice. First and foremost, it recognizes that every child is unique and has different learning styles, interests, and needs. By allowing parents to choose the educational environment that aligns with their child's individual requirements, we can foster a more personalized and effective learning experience.
School choice also promotes healthy competition among schools. When families have the ability to choose the school that best fits their child, it incentivizes educational institutions to continually improve and innovate. This competition can lead to higher academic standards, increased accountability, and enhanced educational outcomes for all students.
Furthermore, school choice enhances parental involvement and engagement in their child's education. When parents have the freedom to select the school that aligns with their values and beliefs, they are more likely to be actively involved in their child's academic journey. This partnership between parents and schools creates a strong support system that positively impacts student achievement.
It's important to note that supporting school choice does not mean neglecting the importance of public education. Public schools play a crucial role in our education system, and we must continue to invest in their success. However, offering school choice options alongside traditional public schools expands educational opportunities and empowers parents to make decisions that are in the best interest of their children.

4. Who do you think is the ultimate authority in a child’s education and wellbeing?

The ultimate authority in a child's education and well-being is the parents. Parents have the primary responsibility for their child's upbringing, including their education, health, and overall well-being. They possess a deep understanding of their child's unique needs, values, and goals. As such, parents are best positioned to make informed decisions and choices that will positively impact their child's educational journey and overall development. While schools, educators, and other stakeholders play important roles in supporting a child's education, it is the parents who have the ultimate authority and responsibility to make decisions that align with their child's best interests.

5. Do you agree with the statement “America is inherently racist”? Why or why not?

It is important to acknowledge that instances of racism and discrimination have occurred throughout world history. However, it is not accurate to label an entire country as inherently racist. The United States has made significant progress in addressing past racial inequalities and promoting equality of opportunity. For nearly six decades, there have been legal protections in place to ensure equal opportunities for all individuals.
While it is true that we are not all created equal in terms of innate abilities and circumstances, it is important to distinguish between equality of opportunity and equality of outcome/ “equity.” Equality of opportunity ensures that everyone has a fair chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.
However, it is essential to recognize that achieving success is influenced by various factors, particularly personal choices. Not everyone starts from the same point or has equal access to resources and opportunities. Nevertheless, with hard work and dedication, anyone can pursue the American Dream.

6. What are your thoughts on “Comprehensive Sex Education”, “Diversity Equity and Inclusion”, and “Social Emotional Learning”? Should these be a part of our public education curriculum or supplemental learning materials or left to parents to teach and why?

I oppose including "Comprehensive Sex Education," "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion," and "Social Emotional Learning" in the public education curriculum for the following reasons:
1. Parental Role: Parents should be the primary educators on sensitive topics like sex education, values, and social-emotional development. These subjects should be taught according to each family's beliefs and values. Schools should respect parents' rights and not interfere with their role in shaping their child's moral and emotional education.
2. Focus on Core Academics: Public education should prioritize core subjects like math, science, language arts, and history. Diverting time and resources to these additional topics risks diluting the focus on essential knowledge and skills needed for college and career readiness.
3. Controversial Nature: These subjects, especially Diversity Equity and Inclusion, involve controversial and subjective viewpoints. Mandating their inclusion in the curriculum imposes specific ideologies and values, potentially infringing on parents' rights with different beliefs. Public schools should provide a balanced education that respects diverse perspectives and values.

7. With declining academic achievement in reading, writing, math, and science in schools across the nation, how would you address these issues if elected?

To address the concerning decline in academic achievement across our country, I would propose several approaches:
1. Strengthen Curriculum and Standards: Conduct a comprehensive review of the curriculum to ensure it is rigorous, relevant, and aligned with academic standards. Identify and address areas of weakness, and provide updated materials and resources to support student learning.
2. Invest in Teacher Training: Prioritize professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their instructional strategies, content knowledge, and classroom management skills. This investment will empower teachers to deliver high-quality instruction and effectively support student learning.
3. Early Intervention Programs: Implement targeted interventions to identify struggling students early on and provide them with the necessary support. This could include tutoring programs, personalized learning plans, and small group instruction to address specific learning needs.
4. Embrace Technology: Integrate educational technology resources into classrooms to enhance teaching and learning experiences. Provide access to devices, educational software, and online resources that facilitate personalized learning and skill development.
5. Engage Parents and Communities: Foster collaboration between schools, parents, and communities to create a supportive environment for student learning. Organize workshops, parent-teacher conferences, and community initiatives that promote active involvement in education.
6. Data Analysis for Improvement: Utilize data analysis to identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement in academic performance. Use this information to make informed decisions, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and drive continuous improvement.
7. Promote a Positive Learning Environment: Encourage a love for learning by creating a positive and engaging atmosphere in schools. Emphasize project-based learning, hands-on activities, and extracurricular opportunities to inspire students and nurture their curiosity.

8. Safety is a major concern for most families, how would you support and encourage safety measures for girls in their private spaces, if elected?

Safety is a major concern for families, particularly when it comes to ensuring the well-being of girls in their private spaces. When elected, I will prioritize the following measures to support and encourage safety for girls:
1. Policy Development: I would work towards developing comprehensive policies that address safety in private spaces within educational settings. These policies should clearly outline expectations for maintaining safe environments, including measures to prevent and respond to incidents of harassment, bullying, or any form of misconduct. It is crucial to have guidelines that promote respect, privacy, and the physical and emotional safety of all students.
2. Education and Awareness: I would advocate for implementing educational programs that focus on consent, healthy relationships, and personal boundaries. These programs should be age-appropriate and designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to recognize and report any inappropriate behavior. By fostering a culture of awareness and respect, we can empower girls to assert their rights and create an environment that discourages unsafe or invasive behavior.
3. Staff Training: It is essential to provide training for school staff members on recognizing signs of abuse, harassment, or inappropriate conduct, as well as on best practices for responding to such situations. This training should also emphasize the importance of maintaining confidentiality, sensitivity, and empathy when addressing issues related to girls' safety in private spaces.
4. Communication and Reporting Mechanisms: Open lines of communication between students, parents, and school staff are crucial for addressing safety concerns effectively. I would advocate for establishing accessible reporting mechanisms, such as anonymous reporting systems or designated staff members who can be approached with concerns. Timely and appropriate responses to reports of misconduct are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of girls.
5. Collaboration with Community Resources: I would work to establish partnerships with local community organizations and resources that specialize in supporting victims of abuse or providing counseling services. By collaborating with these organizations, we can ensure that girls have access to the necessary support systems when needed and create a network of allies who are committed to their safety and well-being.
6. Regular Evaluation and Review: Safety measures should be regularly evaluated and reviewed to ensure their effectiveness and relevance. Feedback from students, parents, and staff should be sought and incorporated into ongoing improvements. This continuous evaluation and review process will help maintain a safe environment for girls in their private spaces.

9. Do you believe Title IX is in jeopardy in our public education system today?

The inclusion of biological men in women's sports has raised concerns about the potential for unfair advantages stemming from physiological differences such as muscle mass, bone density, and other biological factors. This can compromise the level playing field and opportunities for women. Several instances have been reported where men have outperformed women, including cases such as Riley Gaines winning national titles. Moreover, there have been instances where high school girls have lost out on college scholarships due to men taking advantage of these differences. As a father of a young girl who plays sports, and a man, I understand the inherent advantages that men possess in terms of physiology, and I am committed to ensuring fair competition for my daughter. Therefore, I cannot support the participation of men competing against women in sports.

10. Do you have any other endorsements? If so, please list them.

I am grateful to have received an endorsement from Mom's for Liberty. Their support reflects a shared commitment to ensuring the well-being and educational success of our students. I value the endorsement as a recognition of my dedication to promoting a safe and high-quality learning environment.