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Caitlin Bach and Danny Bloom are running for an open three-year seat on the Florence school board. The Watertown Current asked the candidates the same six questions. Here are those questions and the candidates’ responses.
The election for the Florence school board is Tuesday, June 17.
1. Why are you running for Florence school board?
Bach: I am running for Florence school board because I am very passionate about the betterment of our students, district and community as a whole. As a caring individual, I truly believe that I look into all aspects of decision making.
Bloom: I’m running for the Florence school board to be a strong voice for our kids. Over the years, I’ve seen first-hand the potential and promise our students hold. Our decisions must always put them first. I’m also committed to making sure our tax dollars are used wisely and directly support the success of our school and students.
2. What are your top three priorities and why?
Bach: My priorities are the students, district and community, because it takes all to make this the best district and community. The students play an important role in the school staying functional, the district is keeping students in school and giving them academic success for the future, and the community supports the school. I truly care about everyone involved or affected by the school board decisions.
Bloom: I don’t have a list of priorities. If elected, my only priority would be the students and the Florence School District. I’m committed to continuing to help provide a top-tier education and meaningful experiences for every child who walks through our doors.
3. What are your thoughts on open enrollment? How do you balance the opinions of Florence taxpayers and open enrolling families?
Bach: Open enrollment brings both opportunities and challenges. At the core, it is providing commitment to education equity, allowing families to seek what is best fit for their children. However, we also have the responsibility to our local taxpayers, who rightly expect that our investments into our school benefits their community. Striking a balance means being transparent, data-driven, and community minded. The board’s focus should be accessing on a regular basis the academic, financial and social impacts of open enrollment. Ultimately, we must frame this not as an either-or issue, but a shared investment in the success of every student who walks through our doors.
Bloom: When we talk about open enrollment here in Florence, it’s important to remember that many of these families have a meaningful connection to our district. In many cases, these are alumni who feel strongly enough about their experience here to entrust us with their children’s education. That speaks volumes. Open enrollment has brought growth, and with that growth comes more opportunities for our kids. which is, ultimately, what this is all about. At the same time, growth comes with growing pains. We’re starting to feel some of those, and that’s OK. Our focus now needs to be on the students in our buildings today — making sure we’re meeting their needs and working through the challenges that come with a growing district.
4. What is your opinion on the athletic co-op with Henry?
Bach: An opinion is just an opinion and should not skew the decision as a board member. As a school board member, I would be committed to making decisions to serve the best interests of all students within the co-op, while also considering the impact on our communities and ensuring that we are fiscally responsible for the district. My decision will be guided by accurate, factual information provided to the board.
Bloom: When it comes to the athletic co-op with Henry, my priority is doing what’s best for all student-athletes in the Florence School District. Every decision should be focused on what will provide the best opportunities, experiences and outcomes for our kids. If elected, I would make my decision based on facts, data, and input from those directly impacted — always keeping our students at the center.
5. What is your approach to handling controversial and complicated issues?
Bach: My approach on handling controversial and complicated issues would be that no decisions are made without the facts, remaining confidential, and doing what is right. The No. 1 thing to me, if elected as a board member, is keeping my personal feelings and opinions out of the situation to make a level-headed decision.
Bloom: If elected, I want to bring a calm and steady approach while finding a workable solution alongside my fellow board members.
6. Do you support using public funds for private education?
Bach: I believe public funds should stay supporting the public-school systems, which is there to provide equitable, accessible education for all students. Taxpayers fund the public schools and serve the entire community. This is a crucial role in ensuring every child, regardless of income or background, has the chance to learn and succeed. Private education is a voluntary choice made by the families and is typically financed through tuition and private contributions. If public funds are redirected to private education, it compromises the integrity and effectiveness of public education.
Bloom: In short, no. I do not support public funds going to private schools. While I understand that it’s not ideal for families to pay taxes to a school district their child doesn’t attend, the reality is that public funds are meant to support public education. Until there’s a better solution that doesn’t compromise the resources available to our public-school students, my stance remains no.
