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| Three candidates are vying for two available non-partisan seats on the RSU 14 Board of Directors representing Windham in the upcoming election on Nov. 5. From left are Jessica Bridges, Virginia 'Ginny' Woodman and Frances 'Franny' Etheridge. SUBMITTED PHOTOS |
RSU 14 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Two seats open, three-year non-partisan terms
JESSICA BRIDGES
Age/Occupation: 43, Radiologic Technologist at a nearby Urgent Care facility.
Previous Elected Experience/Terms in Office: RSU14 School Board of Directors for 3 years
Please detail specific items that you intend to propose for the RSU 14 Board of Directors to pass and how these items will benefit the residents, students and staff of the school district?
“I plan to continue to listen to residents, parents, teachers and students to make decisions that will benefit all students in our district. Policies continue to be updated following the Maine State Law and according to the Maine Department of Education. I hope to continue my work on the curriculum committee where I can suggest programs and policy modifications that may be appropriate in curriculum and program areas. New program activities undertaken by the district, the implementation of new curricula, or piloting of new programs are topics of particular interest. I also would recommend the addition of MLL teachers with the influx of non-English speaking students, as well as making sure policies, such as the cell phone policy, are being followed in each school.”
What do you believe is the most pressing issue in this race and how do you intend to handle it?
“I believe the most pressing issue of this race is maintaining a balance as this is a non-partisan seat. This is not about Republicans or Democrats but rather what is good for all our students. These decisions should be made considering the facts and opinions from all sides. It is a great responsibility to take in all this information and compile it into a concrete decision of what is best for all the students.”
What solid steps can be taken to increase participation by the public in RSU 14 district initiatives and to improve the quality of education for this community?
“One of our board goals last year was around increasing participation and communication with the community. With Parent Square, information run in the Windham Eagle, increased meetings for public participation surrounding topics of interest, I believe we have tried to reach out on several avenues to bring information to the public. We can always do better and are always open to ideas through email and public comment.”
Why did you choose to run for this specific position and what do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
“I made the decision to re-run for my RSU 14 Board of Directors seat for numerous reasons. First and foremost, as a parent of two school aged children; I have a vested interest in preserving and improving the quality of our school system. I have been involved in the school community, as a parent, volunteer, and a school board member, and would like to continue my work on the curriculum committee; where we consider and make recommendations concerning broad policies of education and research, review major areas of curriculum development, regular/special education services, pupil assessment, long-term program review and program revisions. I believe in quality public education for our current and future students and in order to achieve this; our district needs school board members to collaborate as a team to accomplish the district's goals.”
What are your budget priorities and how will it impact the residents of your district?
“The administration at RSU 14 works incredibly hard on proposing a budget for the board to consider. One priority is keeping the percentage increase as low as possible without negatively impacting the education of our students. These next few years we will be faced with having to start paying for the new middle school but using our resources and carefully focusing on what is important for the district I believe that we can collectively come to a consensus where we can keep the impact to the residents as minimal as possible while maintaining our standards for our children’s education.”
What do you like the most about the RSU 14 school district?
“Every RSU 14 administrator, teacher, staff member, and transportation department employee that I have ever come into contact with is genuine and passionate about serving our community and enhancing the lives of our district's children through quality educational offerings.”
VIRGINIA “GINNY” WOODMAN
Age/Occupation: 70, retired registered nurse
Previous Elected Experience/Terms in Office: None
Please detail specific items that you intend to propose for the RSU 14 Board of Directors to pass and how these items will benefit the residents, students, and staff of the school district.
“I would propose a curriculum review committee comprised of board members, concerned citizens and teachers to clarify what exactly is being taught in RSU 14. I believe we need to return to basics including simple skills like cursive and memorization of math tables. We need to bring back history and civics classes. A knowledge of where our present-day society evolved from is crucial to our nation’s success. Computer skills are necessary, but young minds need to be stretched and exercised to include information they can draw upon when they don’t have a computer at hand. The benefit to students includes increased self-confidence and self-esteem. Benefits to the staff include a measurable skill set. Benefits to the public include students who have the basic building blocks and self-reliance to become successful adults in their career choices and in day to day living.”
What do you believe is the most pressing issue in this race and how to you intend to handle it?
“I think teacher satisfaction and retention is a key issue. There is no RSU 14 without teachers. We are blessed with strong, dedicated professionals who need to be supported with the resources they need and with the knowledge that they are valued. In my mind, communication is the key. I want to hear what the teachers need and their ideas on how we can try to provide it. I came from a family of educators and feel I have an understanding of how much teachers love their students and want them to succeed.”
What solid steps can be taken to increase participation by the public in RSU 14 district initiatives and to improve the quality of education for this community?
“My underlying theme is communication. I am willing to organize round table discussions and informational meetings outside of the public school board meetings. It has been my experience that issues which seemed contrary to my beliefs or understanding might become some of my favorites when they are explained to me on a one to one or even group basis. Building relationships is key. The School Board, RSU 14 Staff, concerned citizens, parents and students are a team. Working together, brain storming, respecting each others’ viewpoints, building trust are all vital to building a strong team and ultimately facilitating a successful outcome for our students."
Why did you choose to run for this specific position and what do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
“I’ve lived in Windham for 47 years and have three grown children who successfully completed their K-12 education here. I had great faith in the Windham school system. I was a room mother in the elementary school and loved the close contact I had with those teachers. It is my wish to give back and try to help iron out some of the issues that seem to be dividing our community. In any institution there is always room for improvement and I hope to be a means to that end.”
What are your budget priorities and how will it impact the residents of your district?
“RSU 14 School Board has been entrusted with a budget that is built on individuals’ finances. We have to be good stewards of those finances. In these difficult financial times, I feel we have to tighten our belts and live within our means just as we do with our personal budgets. The public wants to support strong education, but there is a limit to what we can ask folks to contribute and how high taxes can go. My perspective as a retiree on a fixed income may shed a light on what might be nice to have, but what in reality may be unnecessary to provide a solid education for our students.”
What do you like the most about the RSU 14 school district?
“We have so much to be proud of in our district. We have Championship teams, the Chamber Singers, outstanding competitors on High School challenge programs just to name a few. Our school bus transportation system is state of the art. The lengths our faculty and staff will go to make sure our children are safe is at times heroic. But it is the individual caring that stands out to me. We recently helped a family settle into the school system and every question that I had was answered kindly and professionally. We have something very special in RSU 14 and I hope I can be of service to maintain and improve upon this strong institution in the next three years.”
FRANCES “FRANNY” ETHERIDGE
Age/ Occupation: 38, a wife, mother of three, and serves on the board of directors for a real estate investment firm in North Carolina. Previously homeschooled her older children before enrolling them in RSU 14.
Previous Elected Experience: None
Please detail specific items that you intend to propose for the RSU 14 Board of Directors to pass and how these items will benefit the residents, students, and staff of the school district?
“My initial goal will be to educate and familiarize myself with the many facets of operating a school district from school bus tires, cafeteria supplies, playground inspections, curriculum development, district security, staff benefits, and everything in between. I would like to advocate for the return of essential life skills like proper typing techniques and cursive writing, which are no longer widely taught but remain crucial for student development. Cursive writing is a gateway to understanding important historical documents, while typing is fundamental in today’s digital age. Reintroducing these types of skills will better prepare our students for both academic and real-world challenges. Additionally, I will work on improving communication between schools and parents, ensuring they are informed and engaged in their children’s learning.”
What do you believe is the most pressing issue in this race, and how do you intend to handle it?
“The decline in academic rigor and overall educational quality is the most pressing issue. I have seen this decline in my own children and believe we must refocus on age-appropriate academic content that prioritizes core subjects like math, reading, and science. I will also encourage a partnership between parents and educators, helping families take an active role in their children's social and emotional development. By promoting stronger relationships between schools and families, we can build a more balanced and effective educational system.”
What solid steps can be taken to increase participation by the public in RSU 14 district initiatives and to improve the quality of education for this community?
“To increase public participation, I believe in making it easier for parents to access school information and resources. Many parents juggle demanding schedules and clear, accessible communication is crucial to keep them informed and engaged in district initiatives. I would advocate for improved online tools, more transparent meeting schedules, and user-friendly access to curriculum updates. Additionally, I would work to enhance outreach efforts to ensure parents and community members know how they can get involved and contribute to improving educational quality in RSU 14.”
Why did you choose to run for this specific position, and what do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
“I’m running because I am deeply invested in the future of RSU 14, not only for my own children, but for all the students in the district. With three children in three different schools, as well as actively volunteering within their schools, I’ve had a unique opportunity to see both the strengths and areas for improvement. I hope to advocate for policies that prioritize students’ academic success, and I aim to ensure that our schools maintain a focus on learning that prepares students for life beyond graduation. Ultimately, my goal is to support our families and educators to create a system that works for every student.”
What are your budget priorities, and how will it impact the residents of your district?
“My budget priorities are centered on making sure teachers have the necessary resources to offer high-quality education, while avoiding unnecessary spending. I believe in allocating funds toward essential tools and programs that directly benefit students’ learning, such as classroom materials, teacher development, and student services. Being mindful of the district’s financial responsibilities, I would focus on balancing high-quality education with fiscal responsibility to avoid unnecessary tax burdens on the community.”
What do you like the most about the RSU 14 school district?
“What I love most about RSU 14 is the sense of community that exists within the district. I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated our teachers, parents, and volunteers are to ensuring student success. There is a shared commitment to doing what’s best for our children, and I believe that by fostering a collaborative approach, we can build an even stronger academic environment. This community-focused spirit is something I truly value and wish to continue strengthening.”
Two seats open, three-year non-partisan terms
JESSICA BRIDGES
Age/Occupation: 43, Radiologic Technologist at a nearby Urgent Care facility.
Previous Elected Experience/Terms in Office: RSU14 School Board of Directors for 3 years
Please detail specific items that you intend to propose for the RSU 14 Board of Directors to pass and how these items will benefit the residents, students and staff of the school district?
“I plan to continue to listen to residents, parents, teachers and students to make decisions that will benefit all students in our district. Policies continue to be updated following the Maine State Law and according to the Maine Department of Education. I hope to continue my work on the curriculum committee where I can suggest programs and policy modifications that may be appropriate in curriculum and program areas. New program activities undertaken by the district, the implementation of new curricula, or piloting of new programs are topics of particular interest. I also would recommend the addition of MLL teachers with the influx of non-English speaking students, as well as making sure policies, such as the cell phone policy, are being followed in each school.”
What do you believe is the most pressing issue in this race and how do you intend to handle it?
“I believe the most pressing issue of this race is maintaining a balance as this is a non-partisan seat. This is not about Republicans or Democrats but rather what is good for all our students. These decisions should be made considering the facts and opinions from all sides. It is a great responsibility to take in all this information and compile it into a concrete decision of what is best for all the students.”
What solid steps can be taken to increase participation by the public in RSU 14 district initiatives and to improve the quality of education for this community?
“One of our board goals last year was around increasing participation and communication with the community. With Parent Square, information run in the Windham Eagle, increased meetings for public participation surrounding topics of interest, I believe we have tried to reach out on several avenues to bring information to the public. We can always do better and are always open to ideas through email and public comment.”
Why did you choose to run for this specific position and what do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
“I made the decision to re-run for my RSU 14 Board of Directors seat for numerous reasons. First and foremost, as a parent of two school aged children; I have a vested interest in preserving and improving the quality of our school system. I have been involved in the school community, as a parent, volunteer, and a school board member, and would like to continue my work on the curriculum committee; where we consider and make recommendations concerning broad policies of education and research, review major areas of curriculum development, regular/special education services, pupil assessment, long-term program review and program revisions. I believe in quality public education for our current and future students and in order to achieve this; our district needs school board members to collaborate as a team to accomplish the district's goals.”
What are your budget priorities and how will it impact the residents of your district?
“The administration at RSU 14 works incredibly hard on proposing a budget for the board to consider. One priority is keeping the percentage increase as low as possible without negatively impacting the education of our students. These next few years we will be faced with having to start paying for the new middle school but using our resources and carefully focusing on what is important for the district I believe that we can collectively come to a consensus where we can keep the impact to the residents as minimal as possible while maintaining our standards for our children’s education.”
What do you like the most about the RSU 14 school district?
“Every RSU 14 administrator, teacher, staff member, and transportation department employee that I have ever come into contact with is genuine and passionate about serving our community and enhancing the lives of our district's children through quality educational offerings.”
VIRGINIA “GINNY” WOODMAN
Age/Occupation: 70, retired registered nurse
Previous Elected Experience/Terms in Office: None
Please detail specific items that you intend to propose for the RSU 14 Board of Directors to pass and how these items will benefit the residents, students, and staff of the school district.
“I would propose a curriculum review committee comprised of board members, concerned citizens and teachers to clarify what exactly is being taught in RSU 14. I believe we need to return to basics including simple skills like cursive and memorization of math tables. We need to bring back history and civics classes. A knowledge of where our present-day society evolved from is crucial to our nation’s success. Computer skills are necessary, but young minds need to be stretched and exercised to include information they can draw upon when they don’t have a computer at hand. The benefit to students includes increased self-confidence and self-esteem. Benefits to the staff include a measurable skill set. Benefits to the public include students who have the basic building blocks and self-reliance to become successful adults in their career choices and in day to day living.”
What do you believe is the most pressing issue in this race and how to you intend to handle it?
“I think teacher satisfaction and retention is a key issue. There is no RSU 14 without teachers. We are blessed with strong, dedicated professionals who need to be supported with the resources they need and with the knowledge that they are valued. In my mind, communication is the key. I want to hear what the teachers need and their ideas on how we can try to provide it. I came from a family of educators and feel I have an understanding of how much teachers love their students and want them to succeed.”
What solid steps can be taken to increase participation by the public in RSU 14 district initiatives and to improve the quality of education for this community?
“My underlying theme is communication. I am willing to organize round table discussions and informational meetings outside of the public school board meetings. It has been my experience that issues which seemed contrary to my beliefs or understanding might become some of my favorites when they are explained to me on a one to one or even group basis. Building relationships is key. The School Board, RSU 14 Staff, concerned citizens, parents and students are a team. Working together, brain storming, respecting each others’ viewpoints, building trust are all vital to building a strong team and ultimately facilitating a successful outcome for our students."
Why did you choose to run for this specific position and what do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
“I’ve lived in Windham for 47 years and have three grown children who successfully completed their K-12 education here. I had great faith in the Windham school system. I was a room mother in the elementary school and loved the close contact I had with those teachers. It is my wish to give back and try to help iron out some of the issues that seem to be dividing our community. In any institution there is always room for improvement and I hope to be a means to that end.”
What are your budget priorities and how will it impact the residents of your district?
“RSU 14 School Board has been entrusted with a budget that is built on individuals’ finances. We have to be good stewards of those finances. In these difficult financial times, I feel we have to tighten our belts and live within our means just as we do with our personal budgets. The public wants to support strong education, but there is a limit to what we can ask folks to contribute and how high taxes can go. My perspective as a retiree on a fixed income may shed a light on what might be nice to have, but what in reality may be unnecessary to provide a solid education for our students.”
What do you like the most about the RSU 14 school district?
“We have so much to be proud of in our district. We have Championship teams, the Chamber Singers, outstanding competitors on High School challenge programs just to name a few. Our school bus transportation system is state of the art. The lengths our faculty and staff will go to make sure our children are safe is at times heroic. But it is the individual caring that stands out to me. We recently helped a family settle into the school system and every question that I had was answered kindly and professionally. We have something very special in RSU 14 and I hope I can be of service to maintain and improve upon this strong institution in the next three years.”
FRANCES “FRANNY” ETHERIDGE
Age/ Occupation: 38, a wife, mother of three, and serves on the board of directors for a real estate investment firm in North Carolina. Previously homeschooled her older children before enrolling them in RSU 14.
Previous Elected Experience: None
Please detail specific items that you intend to propose for the RSU 14 Board of Directors to pass and how these items will benefit the residents, students, and staff of the school district?
“My initial goal will be to educate and familiarize myself with the many facets of operating a school district from school bus tires, cafeteria supplies, playground inspections, curriculum development, district security, staff benefits, and everything in between. I would like to advocate for the return of essential life skills like proper typing techniques and cursive writing, which are no longer widely taught but remain crucial for student development. Cursive writing is a gateway to understanding important historical documents, while typing is fundamental in today’s digital age. Reintroducing these types of skills will better prepare our students for both academic and real-world challenges. Additionally, I will work on improving communication between schools and parents, ensuring they are informed and engaged in their children’s learning.”
What do you believe is the most pressing issue in this race, and how do you intend to handle it?
“The decline in academic rigor and overall educational quality is the most pressing issue. I have seen this decline in my own children and believe we must refocus on age-appropriate academic content that prioritizes core subjects like math, reading, and science. I will also encourage a partnership between parents and educators, helping families take an active role in their children's social and emotional development. By promoting stronger relationships between schools and families, we can build a more balanced and effective educational system.”
What solid steps can be taken to increase participation by the public in RSU 14 district initiatives and to improve the quality of education for this community?
“To increase public participation, I believe in making it easier for parents to access school information and resources. Many parents juggle demanding schedules and clear, accessible communication is crucial to keep them informed and engaged in district initiatives. I would advocate for improved online tools, more transparent meeting schedules, and user-friendly access to curriculum updates. Additionally, I would work to enhance outreach efforts to ensure parents and community members know how they can get involved and contribute to improving educational quality in RSU 14.”
Why did you choose to run for this specific position, and what do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
“I’m running because I am deeply invested in the future of RSU 14, not only for my own children, but for all the students in the district. With three children in three different schools, as well as actively volunteering within their schools, I’ve had a unique opportunity to see both the strengths and areas for improvement. I hope to advocate for policies that prioritize students’ academic success, and I aim to ensure that our schools maintain a focus on learning that prepares students for life beyond graduation. Ultimately, my goal is to support our families and educators to create a system that works for every student.”
What are your budget priorities, and how will it impact the residents of your district?
“My budget priorities are centered on making sure teachers have the necessary resources to offer high-quality education, while avoiding unnecessary spending. I believe in allocating funds toward essential tools and programs that directly benefit students’ learning, such as classroom materials, teacher development, and student services. Being mindful of the district’s financial responsibilities, I would focus on balancing high-quality education with fiscal responsibility to avoid unnecessary tax burdens on the community.”
What do you like the most about the RSU 14 school district?
“What I love most about RSU 14 is the sense of community that exists within the district. I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated our teachers, parents, and volunteers are to ensuring student success. There is a shared commitment to doing what’s best for our children, and I believe that by fostering a collaborative approach, we can build an even stronger academic environment. This community-focused spirit is something I truly value and wish to continue strengthening.”
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