Election time is coming. Most people know who they will be voting for from governor down to mayor. Many forget to pay attention to the down ballot candidates: those running for county commissioner, City Council and school board. I have been guilty myself. These local elected officials have an impact on our county, city and our school district. If you are wondering who is on your ballot, go to mnvotes.org and find out.

Let me bring your attention to the school board race. Last election, the public voted to add a seat to the board. Beginning January, there will be a seven-member board. Each election cycle, the public has an opportunity to vote on half of the board positions, but this year you will be voting on the additional seat, as well. When you go to the polls, you can vote for up to four candidates.

I plan to cast one of my votes for Brian Anderson.

Like many district residents, Brian went straight into the workforce after high school. Not only will Brian help the board better reflect the population it represents, Brian knows first-hand the skills he needed when he graduated and the areas in which the district could have better prepared him. The school district has been focusing on just that: preparing students planning to go directly into the workforce. Brian is well suited to help the district move toward adequately preparing students who are just like him.

Brian is a great guy who wants to serve our community that he has lived in his whole life. Brian is a good listener and a bit of an information junkie. I have no doubt Brian will be well informed when he votes, and that his vote will reflect the best interest of students.

I hope you will join me in voting for Brian Anderson for school board.

Angie Hanson

Albert Lea