Six candidates compete for four Avoca School Board seats

Six candidates are competing for four seats on the Avoca School District 37 Board in the April 1 election. The candidates include three incumbents—Dan Seals, Gil Gibori, and Yoav Sharon—and newcomers Jared Branahl, Carolyn Cole, and Lauren Rivera-Haire. During a recent candidate forum, the incumbents highlighted their achievements, including a budget surplus and successful superintendent recruitment. They discussed the importance of competitive teacher salaries and the need for community engagement regarding school upgrades after a failed bond referendum. Candidates proposed various methods to improve communication with the community, such as quarterly updates and increased use of social media. They emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust and ensuring community involvement in school board decisions.