Lowell School Board incumbent Jim Chapman, a retired music teacher, is being challenged for re-election to a four-year term in Position 4 on the board by Jerry Valencia, owner of a construction company, in the May 18 elections.
Two other Lowell board seats are uncontested. Jason Prenevost, an electrician, is seeking Position 2, now held by Board Chair Joyce Donnell, who is not seeking re-election. Michael Galvin is unopposed for re-election to his Position 3 seat on the board.
Lane County elections officials say it is now too close to the Tuesday, May 18, election to safely return ballots by mail, and voters should instead take them to the nearest secure drop site. In Lowell, that is at City Hall at 107 E. Third St.
The candidates were invited to respond to three questions posed by the district’s communication office. (1) What is your main purpose for seeking office, (2) describe school activities/organizations in which you have been involved and (3) what differentiates you from other candidates?
Responses by the Position No. 4 incumbent Jim Chapman and challenger Jerry Valencia:
Jim Chapman:
- I am running for the Lowell School Board because I am a supporter of the Lowell School District. My purpose is to do whatever I can to make sure Lowell schools are excellent in: maintaining and improving facilities including safety, in hiring and keeping the very best staff; teaching traditional curriculum; maintaining fiscal responsibility; continuing the amazing extracurricular programs (especially music and athletics); and, promoting positive, open communications among all involved. I will listen with an open mind to your concerns and questions.
- I began teaching music at Lowell in 1976 and moved here in 1978. In addition to teaching music, I trained the bus drivers, drove bus as a sub, served on negotiation teams and was even a brief cheerleader adviser. After retirement I have served on the Lowell School Board for eight years to add my support for the schools. I also spent several years recycling newspapers and giving the proceeds to the current excellent music department. I have been involved for 43 years as a parent and grandparent of our family attending Lowell.
- One question I have been asked: do I support school choice? Yes. Carol and I were on a committee in 1974 that planned and implemented the first charter school in Eugene. When MVA asked to become affiliated with the district, I was the only board member to oppose. I was concerned that the competition would damage the Lowell schools. Since then it has not proven to be true. I am pleased that we offer three choices for parents and it has benefitted the district financially and in parent choice. I am a long-time proven supporter of Lowell schools and would be proud to represent you.
Jerry Valencia:
- Our district is extraordinary in that we have a public school, a charter school and a home school academy. These options keep Lowell competitive, brought new families to our community, and created opportunities for students to be successful in the Lowell School District. The Lowell School District has done a great job creating educational options for families. I am running for the Lowell School Board because I want to continue our collaborative relationship for the betterment of all Lowell students and to make sure we are preparing students for the next phase of their life.
- I have been involved in the Lowell School District for 20+ years; three of my children were part of the District. Athletics changed the direction of my life and I was able to earn a wrestling scholarship to the University of Ore- gon. I have volunteered with the wrestling team and announced at football games. I also served on Lowell’s Capital Improvement Plan committee, was a business mentor with RAIN, helped implement Lowell’s Cool Schools grant, and have worked with Senators and Representatives on behalf of small schools. My company, Bridgeway Contracting, was involved in the remodel of Lundy Elementary.
- I believe in hard work, being proactive, and I know that it’s never too late to make a difference. I want each Lowell graduate to know there are multiple paths to success and whether they choose a trade, college, or military, the foundation they are building in our school district will set them up for success. I currently serve on the Order of the O Board for the University of Oregon, where I increased revenue and shined a spotlight on women’s athletics. Finally, as a business owner, I strive to be proactive and develop solutions before problems occur.
Position 2: Jason Prenevost (unopposed)
- My main purpose is to facilitate the District’s efforts and to continue moving in a positive direction. More specifically, I aim to provide resources to make Lowell stand out among other local school districts with our exceptional and diverse facilities and programs.
- I am a member of the Budget Committee and Bond Improvement Planning Committee. I have also volunteered as a coach in wrestling, football and track. I have been through the district as a student and parent, and I will continue to support the district as my first grandchild joins Mountain View Academy this fall.
- Along with incumbent candidate Mr. Jim Chapman and current board member Mrs. Dionne Plahn, I have a multi-generational investment in the community that I hope to extend to the future, keeping Lowell families in Lowell schools. I am committed to a continual investment in our community and a maximization of our local resources.
Position 3: Mike Galvin (unopposed)
- I have served on the board for 14 years. During my tenure, I have seen the district at some of its lowest times, where the survival of the district was in question. I have also seen and been part of the district’s turnaround and emergence of one of Oregon’s best. I want to continue to participate in the continuing success of the district.
- As a board member, I have not been directly involved in many of the day-to-day activities of the district. I have been directly involved in many policy/managerial activities which have brought the district and its many programs to a high level of quality. I have been directly involved in the selection of four superintendents and the negotiation of numerous union contracts and agreements. I have also financially supported many of the district’s activities.
- My employment career was as a senior level executive in a large municipal information management organization. I was directly involved in all aspects of the organization, including administration, procurement, 24/7 operational support, labor relations and interface with the political leadership. I have had direct, high level experience in those areas, which currently challenge the district.
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