(Pocatello for Accountable Government Entities, October 12, 2023)
Candidate questionnaires were emailed to the Pocatello-Chubbuck School District 25 Board of Trustee candidates for ZONE 3 and ZONE 4 on 10/03/23 inviting participation. We will post these responses as they are received.
MARTY VIZCARRA – School District 25 Trustee Candidate – ZONE 4
QUESTIONS FOR POCATELLO-CHUBBUCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 25 CANDIDATES
1. What experiences and/or skills do you have that contribute toward you being the best candidate for this position?
My professional background is in architectural design and project management. Though I am not currently a licensed architect, I have been working in the field of architecture for over 10 years. Most recently I have been employed with Idaho State University in their Facilities Services department working on projects of various sizes. While I would not say that I am the most well versed individual when it comes to understanding facilities and physical plant needs, my time with ISU has taught me a considerable amount regarding the needs of educational facilities. It is my belief that my experience in design and construction will be of benefit to the school district and community as we look to the possibility of reconstructing and building new facilities in our area.
Apart from my experience with design and construction, I believe that my approachable attitude and willingness to listen will be a valuable asset to the School Board. My time as a member of Leadership Pocatello-Chubbuck through the Chamber of Commerce has provided me with significant experience in team leading. I understand that leaders inspire through authentic interaction and collaboration. I view myself as a conduit for the community and hope to provide our public with a platform to express their opinions without repercussion and to enable healthy conversation. I believe decisions that impact our community should be made with as much public input as possible.
2. How do you plan to learn about and then best represent the interests of your Zone?
From the moment I decided to pursue this position I have tirelessly studied the School Board Policy Manual. I have met with Superintendent Douglas Howell and current members of the Board to better understand the requirements and expectations of the position. I would like to have an active role in seeking information from constituents. I believe the School Board should implement quarterly town hall meetings and continue to invite public comment. Additionally, I intend to make myself available to the public through digital forms of communication and would be willing to meet with community members face to face to hear their thoughts. As a member of this community myself, I understand the benefit of feeling heard. Community buy-in happens when individuals feel they are able to adequately express concerns and discuss issues personal to them.
3. Identify an issue within the district that needs improvement and how do you intend to address that issue?
While I personally believe we have an exceptional School District filled with active learners and well qualified individuals, one issue I feel I can isolate in our district is trust.
Building trust in our local school district hinges on open and transparent communication and accountability. Effective communication ensures that parents, teachers, students, and the community are well-informed about district activities and decisions. It’s crucial to maintain easily accessible channels of information to keep the public involved and knowledgeable. I intend to actively listen to concerns and feedback and make efforts to address issues promptly.
Furthermore, I pledge to remain accountable. I believe it is vital to make decisions that are fair and consistent and to communicate these policies clearly to parents and students. Ensuring that policies and rules are applied consistently and equitably reinforces trust in the district. I do not believe in backroom decisions.
When transparent communication and accountability are in place, parents, teachers, students, and the community will have confidence in the district’s decisions, fostering a positive educational environment and community support.
4. Open – for your comments or message to voters.
I would like to say thank you to our community for granting me the opportunity to pursue this position. I believe we have an amazing community and I would like to be a part of its growth and help in any way possible. I promise you that I will put my best foot forward everyday and work to strengthen the bond between our schools and our community. I genuinely believe that everyone has a voice to share and I hope to reach as many of our community as possible to receive feedback on how we can make Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 the highest standard for public education.
