Why I am Running
I'm running for the school board because our schools shape what Brainerd becomes. Every student who walks through our doors deserves an education that prepares them for what comes next, whether that's college, a skilled trade, military service, a first job, or the ordinary work of being a good neighbor.
The district faces real pressures. Enrollment is declining, budgets are tight, and families have fair questions about class sizes. Decisions like these call for board members who listen first, work well with people they don't always agree with, and weigh the long-term consequences of every vote.
I want to help rebuild trust between the district and the families it serves, because schools work best when the community feels like a partner in them.
My Seven Commitments to District 181
1
Listen to Parents and the Community
Good decisions start with hearing from the people they affect. I'll make time for parents, students, teachers, and staff. Making sure what they tell us reaches the board before a vote, not after.
2
Support Student Safety
Every family deserves to send a child off in the morning without worry. I'll support safe buildings, attentive supervision, and prompt, straightforward communication when a parent or staff member raises a concern.
3
Use Taxpayer Dollars Responsibly
Every dollar the district spends belongs to someone in this community. I'll keep classroom needs at the center of budget decisions and make sure residents can see plainly where their money goes.
4
Strengthen and Expand Career and Technical Education
Career and technical education is one of Brainerd's real strengths, and it deserves room to grow. I'll work to expand hands-on programs that prepare students for skilled trades and technical careers, including opportunities for eligible homeschool and private school students.
5
Use Every School Building Wisely
Our buildings are among the district's largest assets. I'll push for an honest look at how each one is used, and for practical ways that space can serve more students, more programs, and the wider community.
6
Bring Families Back to
Brainerd Schools
When a family leaves the district, we should know why. I'll work with the board and district staff to ask those questions, listen to the answers, and use what we learn to make Brainerd a district families choose to come back to.
7
Give Teachers the Class Sizes and Tools They Need
Teachers can only do their best work under conditions that allow it. I'll support reasonable class sizes and make sure classrooms are stocked with the resources teachers actually need.
About Ed
Along with my work as a local attorney, I have served on the Brainerd Public Library board and as
secretary of the Forestview Middle School Parents Association.
I also belong to the Paul Bunyan Cyclists Club, the Brainerd Nordic Ski Club, and the Northland
Arboretum.
Why Neighbors Support Ed
Lindy Grell
Ed listens to local concerns and thoughtfully explores what is best.
Jack Durand
Ed treats people with respect and works well with others to get things done.
Dan Fundingsland
Ed has always valued education as a priority for our youth.
Contact
Get in Touch with Ed
For inquiries or to learn more about Ed's work, feel free to reach out using the form below.