The spring election season has begun! The spring season tends to be primarily geared toward local elections, including school board elections, with primaries happening in February before general elections happen later in the spring. These elections are critical for determining how school districts will be guided moving into the future.

Incumbent CFUASD Board of Education members Kevin Swift and Pete Lehmann have filed paperwork stating they will not be running for re-election. David Martineau and Peggy McKillip will be on the April 4 election ballot, asking for voter approval to take their seats.

Here are just a few reasons why you, as an alumnus of Chippewa Falls schools, should care about the local elections, especially if you live in this area.

• Impact on Education Quality: School board elections determine the individuals who will make decisions regarding the district's educational policies, programs, and budget. These decisions directly affect the quality of education that current and future students receive. As an alumni, you have a stake in ensuring that the education provided by your district remains top-notch.
  
  
• Representation of Your Community: School board members are elected to represent the values and interests of their constituents. Alumni have a unique perspective on the district's history, strengths, and challenges, and can ensure that their voices are heard by participating in elections.
  
  
• Shape the Future: School board elections set the stage for the future of the district. The decisions made by elected officials will shape the district's direction and determine the opportunities available to students in the years to come. Alumni can play a critical role in determining the district's future by engaging in the electoral process.
  
  
• Maintain Connections: Participating in school board elections is a way for alumni to maintain their connections to their former schools and communities. By staying involved, alumni can stay informed about what's happening in the district and play a role in shaping its future.
  
  
• Support Current Students: Alumni have a unique opportunity to support the current students in their former district. By participating in school board elections and advocating for policies and programs that benefit students, alumni can help ensure that the district continues to provide a high-quality education for generations to come.

School board elections have a significant impact on the quality of education and the future of public school districts. As an alumnus, you have a stake in these elections and can make a difference by participating and making your voice heard.