The Ipswich School District election will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2023. The polling place is the Ipswich School main entrance. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Three candidates are vying for one three-year term on the School Board.
Candidates are the incumbent Todd Hettich, Rhonda Geditz and Scott Braun.
Each responded to a Ipswich Tribune questionnaire. Their responses are:
Scott Braun
Family and background: Born to Shirley and Allan Braun. Born and raised in Ipswich. Graduated from IHS in 2000. Graduated from Lake Area with a degree in computer networking in 2003 then decided to move back to the family farm and started farming and ranching. Married to Stephanie Braun and have four kids ages 14, 11, 6, and 3 years old.
Why are you running for Ipswich School: I feel the current school administration and staff are doing an excellent job and hope to bring new ideas to help further progress our school.
What experience would you bring to this position? I feel I offer the experience of being a native Ipswich who graduated from IHS and is also raising four children who go to school at IHS (or will go to school soon). I have been very involved in my children’s youth programs. I also feel my 20 years of farming and ranching has given me a lot of knowledge. I feel these experiences make me very relatable to my fellow community members.
What is your vision for the future of the Ipswich School? My vision for the Ipswich school is to continue striving to have a school that students, parents, staff, and community members are proud of.
Rhonda Geditz
Family & Background: My name is Rhonda Geditz and my husband is Tony Geditz. We have three children, Zach, (18), an Ipswich HS graduate and SD National Guard member, Tristan (14), a 9th grader and Margaret (10), a 5th grader. We own a farm southwest of Ipswich.
Why Are You Running For Ipswich School Board? I want to ensure our school board aligns with the values and traditions of our community. Support for teachers, support staff, administrators and community development is essential for advancing our educational programs. As a board member I will prioritize collaboration with state advocates and agencies to enrich our school development.
What Experience Would You Bring To This Position? Having closely worked with all school personnel due to my children, I understand the educational environment well. Furthermore, my background in accounting and business management establishes a strong foundation for this role. Years of running a business have instilled in me determination, open-mindedness and the ability to make discerning decisions. Armed with these tools, I will confront any challenge directly, striving to implement the best practices to achieve optimal results.
What Is Your Vision For The Future the Ipswich School? My vision is to cultivate an extraordinary educational environment that encourages both exploration and enjoyment. A flourishing community is a direct outcome of the individuals our school system nurtures. I firmly believe that achieving this goal requires effective communication across all areas, including budgets, safety and equipment, to fulfill the needs of students, staff and most importantly, our community's future. Ultimately, my aspiration is for our students, staff and administrators to reflect upon the conclusion of each school day with a profound sense of pride and accomplishment.
Todd Hettich
Family and Background: I am married to my wonderful wife - Christina Hettich. We have three energetic boys - Matthew, Tyler, and Kyle – that have been part of the Ipswich School. Matthew and Tyler are both attending the University of North Dakota pursing degrees in commercial aviation. Kyle is a sophomore this year and continues to keep us young. We are grateful for the education they have received, and the preparation teachers and administrators have afforded them. Christina and I both work for the same Information Technology (IT) company called DXC Technology.
I am a graduate of Aberdeen Central. I served in the USAF for 4 years as an Air Weapons Controller. Thereafter, I worked for GTE & MIT in the Marshall Islands for 5 years tracking satellites and supporting missile testing. I currently work for a major Information Technology company (DXC Technology) in the Aerospace and Defense industry (32 years) as a director in IT Service Delivery. I hold three degrees: MBA, BAM, and an Information Technology degree.
Why are you running for Ipswich School Board? I have a strong desire to CONTINUE to be involved with the education of our future generation in Ipswich. Gaining a sound education for our kids is the most important aspect I will keep at the forefront. Secondary to this, keeping the school in a sound financial state while recruiting and retaining the brightest educators is of the utmost importance in accomplishing this. I am committed to being actively involved with the Board and Administration to ensure we do not faulter in achieving this.
What experience would you bring to this position? I bring a wealth of knowledge in business, education, and Information Technology. I have lived all over the world to include multiple locations within and beyond the US; therefore, I am able to bring a “world view” of things that have potential to affect our school and community. I have an extremely strong business background in the corporate community and bring a common-sense approach to the Board. I have served on the Ipswich School Board, and I also serve on another corporate board which allows me to hit the ground running in a Board environment. Most importantly, I am not afraid to ask the tough questions, and I am able to participate in healthy debate in support of the right decisions for the kids and our School.
What is your vision for the future of the Ipswich School? My vision for the Ipswich School is to bring the advanced curriculum, technology, learning environment (to include facilities) and staff to fulfill our obligation. The kids MUST be prepared to enter the work force with the highest level of education they are capable of obtaining. This all must be done in a financially responsible manner seeking out and applying for grants and federal funds where available.
With that said, I would be grateful for your vote on 20 June!
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