Name and office sought
Desiree’ Fergus, Piper Board of Education, Unexpired Position.
Age: 36
Occupation: I have worked for the Board of Public Utilities for 11 years. I am a Field Service Representative in the Electric Operations Division.
Education: I graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1997 and graduated with my AGS Degree with a focus in Business and Utilities Management, in 2013 from KCKCC with Cum Laude and Phi Theta Kappa Honors.
Organizations, clubs, groups to which you belong
I am a member of Village Community Church. 11 year member of the Local 53, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and also serve as a Union Steward. And have previously served as a member of the BPU Employee Foundation. I am also a member of the NAACP.
Reasons for running
My husband and I chose to raise our family in the Piper community. We have amazing memories of our children attending elementary through high school years here. Piper Schools have provided our children with a strong academic base and a range of extracurricular opportunities. I want the same experiences for all Piper students. Having 5 children currently attending school in the district, I have spent time in the classrooms, and I have volunteered at countless extracurricular activities. I realize the need for people who are committed to the long-term success of all of our children. It is my intention that all students who attend Piper receive the best education possible and that taxpayers receive the greatest possible return on their investment. I don’t have a hidden agenda or platform. I only have a true willingness and desire to serve our children and community with the commitment they deserve.
What is your top campaign issue?
Quality Education is my top campaign issue. We have some of the most committed teachers I have ever met. At recent board meetings staff members were recognized for their years of service to our district and our children. Sixteen percent of the staff in Piper USD 203 have been serving here continuously for 15-30 years. Having spent time in the classroom volunteering with some of these teachers, I have seen their dedication first hand. Having seen them work under strained budgets and in overcrowded classes, I am amazed by what they do. However, I am concerned that with continual growth and classes busting at the seams, what long term effect is this going to have on the quality education that we all pride ourselves on here in USD 203.
There may be budget constraints facing local governments and
schools. If you had to make cuts, what would be at the top of the list to cut?
Serving as a member of School Board requires you to make tough decision regarding the budget and cuts. Making cuts should never be taken lightly, and I don’t think it would be fair to answer this question never having served as a member on the board. Making decisions on those cuts are a collaborative decisions and require in-depth knowledge on what our District’s needs are.
If you are an incumbent, list your top accomplishments in office.
If you are not an incumbent, what would you change?
My intentions are not necessarily to come in and make “Changes.” I would however, like to find a way to increase and promote parental and community member involvement in the lives of our students. This would include the academic aspect and extra curricular activities that students are involved in.
What is the difference, on the issues, between you and the other candidates running for this office?
It’s hard to say, from the Information I have gathered at this point, there is a general consensus on the challenges that our district is facing. With that being said I am looking forward to our upcoming candidate forum.
Have you run for elected office previously? When, results?
No, this is my first attempt to run for elected office.