You and Your School
Greetings from TAPS. September is Minnesota School Board Recognition Month, and Tracy Area Public Schools is proud to join the Minnesota School Boards Association in recognizing the dedicated public servants who help ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. This year’s statewide theme, “Minnesota School Boards Help Minnesota Kids Rise,” capitalizes on the state’s new campaign and celebrates the essential role locally elected school boards play in helping students achieve their highest potential.
School board members volunteer countless hours to lead one of our community’s most important responsibilities — providing students with a high-quality public education that prepares them for success in college, careers, and life. Their leadership helps create learning environments where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to grow.
“Every decision our school board makes is centered on what’s best for students,” said Chad Anderson, superintendent of Tracy Area Public Schools. “Their commitment to thoughtful governance, responsible stewardship, and continuous improvement helps ensure our students have the opportunities and support they need to rise today and into the future.”
As locally elected leaders, school board members establish the district’s vision, adopt policies, approve budgets, oversee district operations, and hold the school system accountable for student achievement. In TAPS, the school board oversees a budget of $10 million, serves 650 students, supports 130 full and part time employees, and provides stewardship for 4 school buildings.
Through their leadership, school board members help:
• Set a clear vision focused on student success and lifelong learning;
• Ensure responsible stewardship of public resources;
• Support safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environments;
• Expand opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, and life;
• Partner with families, educators, businesses, and the community to strengthen public education;
• Monitor progress and make informed decisions that continuously improve student outcomes.
“School board service often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt in every classroom and by every student,” said Chad Anderson. “Their leadership helps remove barriers, create opportunities, and ensure every child has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed. Simply put, Minnesota school boards help Minnesota kids rise.”
Strong public schools are built through strong local leadership. School boards represent the voices and values of their communities while making thoughtful decisions that invest in students and strengthen the future of Minnesota.
Recognizing Our School Board We proudly recognize the members of the TAPS School Board for their dedication and service to our students, staff, and community: Rod Benson, Board Chair; Jody Bauer, Vice Chair; Nicole Swanson, Clerk; Ashley Christensen, Treasurer; Scot Bowman, Director; Jay Fultz, Director; Jeff Knott, Director; Ryan Verlinde, Director; Taylor Hoffbeck, Director; Adam Snyder, Director.
