Five face off in race for two school board seats: Larson

Lorraine Larson, an incumbent on the Havre Public Schools Board of Trustees, is running to retain her seat on the board.

Five candidates are vying for two three-year terms, with the top two vote-getters taking the seats.

Larson was selected at the end of February by the present school board.

"I was in education for 40 years. Also, I'm retired. So I think those two things I have going for me," Larson said.

Larson taught special education and worked as the school psychologist for the district, as well as working with non-special needs students. She said that in her earlier years she coached track and girl's basketball along with being the area coordinator for Special Olympics. 

Having been a former educator, serving those 40 years all with Havre Public Schools, will provide valuable experience in understanding her role as an active school board member, she said. 

Larson said being an active listener to parents and administrators or teaching personnel is a vital quality that she believes she has. She said working together as a team with her fellow board members as well as understanding the policies continue to be important issues for her. 

Being retired also gave Larson the time and opportunity to work with her grandsons, also attendees of Havre Public Schools, on their studies through online learning, she said, and she continued doing so last fall.

Addressing the impact of COVID-19 on education, Larson said she agreed with the decision to return to in-person learning five days a week.

"I think (the school board was) cautious and thought of the kid's and staff's safety. I think that was what they needed to do. There will be gaps in learning that some children would have because of (a lack of) continuity in school. I think that the district is hoping to address that this summer with summer school," Larson said.

Larson said she would appreciate being selected as a continuing board member. 

"Our work, as board members, does not end with the school year. We will need to be vigilant in working with our students in addressing their learning gaps with our number one priority being their safety and welfare," Larson said.