Clinton — Five candidates for four seats on the Clinton Community School District board outlined similar priorities Friday night at a forum hosted by Grow Clinton, citing student achievement, teacher support and clearer financial communication as top goals.

The forum opened with a written statement read for Natalie Ford, who was unable to attend; she described herself as a registered nurse and said she is running to "be a voice for students, families, and teachers," and to promote transparency and student achievement. Candidates who appeared in person — Darren Borgeson, Megan Dove, Kurt Miller, Taryn (surname not specified) and a candidate identified only as Andy (surname not specified) — gave opening remarks and answered questions from moderator Matt Parks.

Why it matters: School board policy affects classroom staffing, program priorities and how local tax dollars are spent. Several candidates said those choices influence whether the district can keep and recruit teachers and provide consistent opportunities for students.

Candidates’ priorities and teacher retention
Candidates repeatedly listed the same three priorities: raising student achievement, supporting and retaining teachers, and increasing transparency about board decisions and finances. Andy (candidate) said the board’s goals are "centered around student achievement" and stressed the need for financial transparency so "people know what was involved in those decisions and why we made those decisions." Darren Borgeson and Megan Dove both emphasized respect, professional development and wellness supports for staff; Borgeson noted the district is limited by state rules on pay increases and proposed non‑salary supports such as training and improved workplace culture. Kurt Miller said anonymous staff surveys and other measures that reduce fear of retaliation could surface constructive ideas from employees.

School finance and the board’s role
Several candidates said school finance is complicated and often controlled by state policy. Andy (candidate) — who identified himself as an accountant by trade — said the board must "trust our CFO, trust our superintendent, but verify" and be able to explain budget decisions to the public. Candidates described attending state training sessions to improve their understanding and urged continuing education for board members.

Preparing students for work and college
Candidates praised district efforts to expand work‑based learning and internships. Several referenced the district’s "Portrait of a Graduate" and programs such as Synergy that expose students to careers and help them test interests before committing to a particular path. "Not very many of us started our careers with what we said we wanted to be in high school," Andy (candidate) said, supporting expanded opportunities for students to try different fields.

Access and equity
When asked how the district ensures all students receive quality resources despite tight state funding, candidates pointed to district goals and administrator plans intended to align available funds with student needs. They urged public attendance at board meetings to learn about programs and outcomes.

What voters heard about specifics
• Natalie Ford (statement): emphasized compassion, communication and transparency; asked voters to let her continue the work already started.
• Darren Borgeson: highlighted workforce alignment and teacher morale; said teachers need more respect and communication.
• Megan Dove: cited community engagement and experience filling a recent board vacancy; emphasized supporting staff retention.
• Kurt Miller: emphasized safety, anonymous staff surveys and teacher retention; cited previous leadership and military service.
• Andy (candidate): described his accounting background and role on the board; said the board should "let good people do the work, but then also hold them accountable."

No formal motions or votes occurred during the forum. Candidates closed with brief appeals for votes and reminders that the election is Tuesday, Nov. 4.

The forum included questions supplied by high school Synergy students. It was organized to help voters compare candidates on issues likely to affect classrooms, staff and long‑term district strategy.

Looking ahead: Candidates urged voters to attend school board meetings and review budget reports to understand choices the board faces regarding staffing, programs and capital needs.