Candidate for Anchorage Independent School Board of Education
Thank you for visiting my campaign website! I’m Elizabeth Kolk and I am a candidate running for the Anchorage Independent School Board of Education. I’ve designed this website to provide you with insight into my candidacy for the Anchorage School Board. With a strong background in software engineering, finance + business, and a passion for education, I’ve created this platform to share my vision, goals, and the reasons behind my campaign.
On this site, you’ll find detailed information about my qualifications, my commitment to continuing to improve our beloved Anchorage School, and how you can get involved to support this important cause. I am dedicated to fostering an environment where every single student has the opportunity to succeed, and I hope to earn your support in this endeavor, and I would be honored to earn your vote on November 5, 2024.
Thank you for your time and interest. I am here to listen, serve, and make a difference. I love this community, and I believe we can work together to make our school and the school board even better. If elected, I will bring my passion, my dedication, and my commitment to creating the best possible environment for our children to grow and learn. By creating a warm, welcoming environment within the school, we ensure that this close-knit, supportive community continues to thrive for generations to come. I’m dedicated to keeping that spirit alive, because when we work together as a community, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish for our children and students.
27 Days Until Election Day!
Meet Elizabeth
Hi, I’m Elizabeth! I’m a proud mother of two spirited APS students. I grew up in Glastonbury, Connecticut and graduated from the University of Connecticut with an A.A.S. in Agriculture, specializing in Plant Science, Greenhouse Management, and Turfgrass Management. In 2007, I moved to Anchorage, Kentucky and later earned a B.S. in Computer Science with Information Systems with a Minor in Business, along with an A.S. in Computer Science with a Concentration in Computer Networking from Indiana University Southeast. I’ve enjoyed a successful and fulfilling career as a software engineer in the healthcare industry. I am deeply committed to lifelong learning and regularly engage in educational activities to expand my knowledge and skills, which I believe is essential for personal and professional growth. I love spending time with my family, volunteering within the Anchorage community, baking and cooking (Ina Garten is my inspiration, whose memoir I eagerly anticipate reading), biking, and providing computer troubleshooting knowledge services and solutions to individuals and businesses. Giving back and helping others is something I’m truly passionate about.
I am wholeheartedly dedicated to supporting our students, enriching their educational experiences, helping to create opportunities that enrich students’ educational experiences, and I am deeply invested in ensuring that all students receive the support they need for a successful education. As an active volunteer at Anchorage Public School, I work closely with students and educators to foster a positive and engaging learning environment. My involvement includes serving on the School Safety Committee, where I focus on maintaining a safe and secure atmosphere for all, I am an active member of the Anchorage Parent Teacher Association, the Anchorage Civic Club, a Room Parent for the two second-grade classes, an Art Discovery Volunteer for the two second-grade classes, an active “Mystery Reader” for both of my twins’ classes, a Christmas in Anchorage Volunteer and Baker, a Teacher & Staff Appreciation Volunteer to support our teachers and staff, Chair of the Dining & Entertainment Committee for the 32nd Annual APTA Auction “Boots and Bling”, a member of the Anchorage Cookbook Committee helping to create and contribute to the “Anchorage Cooks: A Collection of Recipes From Your Friends and Neighbors” cookbook. Each role I take on reflects my unbridled dedicationto fostering educational excellence and making a meaningful impact in our beloved Anchorage community. I find great fulfillment in participating in events and initiatives that strengthen our community and enhance our shared quality of life.
I’m involved in exploring ways to support economic development; as I believe that a thriving local economy benefits everyone – not just those with children in the school system. Approximately 73% of Anchorage residents do not have children in the Anchorage School system. Having one of the highest quality schools of Kentucky located in our cherished Anchorage community contributes substantially to property values, it attracts businesses, makes our community much safer (Thank you Anchorage Police Department & Anchorage Middletown Fire and EMS!), and quality education is a major investment in the future workforce, which benefits our entire community. There is a critical link between quality of education and the overall well-being and prosperity of our community. The interconnectedness of education, economy, community, strong connection, safety, and public health is essential for creating a brighter future for everyone in Anchorage. I have a keen interest in public safety and frequently look for ways to ensure that our community remains safe, secure, and prepared.
I Believe…
Every student deserves equal access to opportunities that foster success, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Every student must feel they belong, are understood, and are valuedin a nurturing educational environment.
Every student possesses unique strengths and faces individual challenges, which must be recognized and supported.
Every student’s distinct learning style should be embraced, fostering a personalized approach to education.
Every student should be accepted for who they are, with their individuality celebrated and respected.
Every student should be guided to show kindness, care, and respect toward others, building a community of empathy and understanding.
Every student’s voice is powerful and should be heard, ensuring they play an active role in their education.
Every student should be equipped with the tools and encouragement needed to blossom and develop self-confidence.
Every student should feel safe and secure both at school and during their commute, whether walking, biking, or driving.
Every parent or guardian deserves a voice in their child’s education and must be kept informed of decisions and changes, with a commitment to open communication and transparency.
We must keep hiring the best and highest-quality teachers to maintain and enhance our standard of excellence.
Teachers and administrators are the backbone of our school.
Teachers are on the front lines, and their expertise should guide how we support our students.
We need to provide the resources and frameworks that empower teachers to deliver the best education possible, but we must also trust them to innovate and adapt their teaching to meet students’ unique needs.
The board can help create the conditions for that success by supporting teachers and administrators every step of the way, ensuring that their work reflects the needs of the community and the high standards we all want for our children.
It’s crucial that every voice is heard, and I would ensure that feedback loops are in place, where concerns can be raised and addressed directly.
By fostering an open dialogue and committing to transparency, we can prevent misinformation from taking root and create a more unified, informed school community.
In transparent leadership, collaboration, and fostering a strong community where every voice is heard. I’m here to serve, and I will work tirelessly to ensure our children have the best opportunities to learn and grow. Together, we can build a stronger, brighter future for Anchorage School.
How You Can Support My Candidacy
1. Vote: Review the 4 Candidates running for the Anchorage School Board. There are only 2 openings in this election. I truly hope to gain your trust, earn your support, serve our community, and I would be absolutely honored to earn your vote.
2. Spread the Word: Share information about my campaign with friends, family, and neighbors. Your endorsement can help reach more voters and increase awareness of my goals.
3. Give Feedback: I deeply value your thoughts and suggestions on how I can better serve our community through my campaign. Your input is crucial in helping me understand what you seek in an ideal Anchorage School Board member. What values are most important to you? Do you want someone who brings innovative solutions and fresh perspectives? Do you value a candidate with over a decade of Financial Management experience, someone who is passionate about budgeting and prioritization and working with numbers, a candidate with over a decade of Computer Science Technology specializing in Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Quality Assurance, or perhaps you’re looking for someone who is, and will always be, a dedicated advocate for our students? Do you want someone who listensto your thoughts and opinions (because what YOU say matters to me) before a final decision is made? I am in this race for the children, and I want to ensure that my approach reflects the needs and priorities of our entire community. Your feedback is incredibly valuable in shaping my campaign and ensuring that I address all of our community’s wants and needs effectively. Please fill out the Feedback section at the top of the page and/or email me directly at ekolkaps@gmail.com or my personal email ekolk412@gmail.com.
4. Join ME at the School Board Meetings: Come join the current School Board members (Hannah Barnes, Rosanna Gabriele, Sara Tyler, Andrew O’Brien, and Wilson Greene), Interim Superintendent Sharla Six (her first day was Tuesday September 24, 2024), and myself at the monthly meetings. The more the merrier! Sign up to speak if you’d like; I will be there listening and taking thorough notes on what you say and what is discussed. Email Hillary Arney (Assistant to Superintendent) at hillary.arney@anchorage.kyschools.us or sign up when you get there! Feel free to sit with me, too!
As a dedicated candidate for the Anchorage School Board, I am excited to invite you to two important upcoming events that will provide invaluable insights into our community’s educational landscape:
1. Q&A with Mayor Neil Ramsey and Hannah Barnes: (My Audio Recordings are on my Facebook Page)
When: Monday, October 7, 2024, at 5:30 PM
Where: Ramsey Barn, 906 Evergreen Road, Anchorage, KY 40223
Join us for an engaging Q&A session where Mayor Ramsey will host Hannah Barnes, Chair of the Anchorage Independent Board of Education. This is a crucial opportunity to discuss the importance of delivering accurate information to our community, especially amidst the swirl of misinformation. Your voice matters, and this is your chance to ask questions and share your thoughts!
2. School Board Candidate Meet and Greet: There is a Live Stream via Zoom of this event, for those of you that cannot make it – I gave my consent! (My Audio Recordings Are On My Facebook Page – Link is in My Contact Information Below)
When: Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 6:30 PM
Where: Anchorage School’s Library
Come join me & the other 3 candidates (Rosanna Gabriele, Nancy Lynne Walters, and Ken Kris Towery) at the School Board Candidate Meet & Greet hosted by the APTA and AISD. I hope to see you there & I look forward to answering all of your questions!
I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for the work of our current school board members – Hannah Barnes, Rosanna Gabriele, Sara Tyler, Andrew O’Brien, and Wilson Greene. I deeply value the time, energy, and thoughtful decisions you’ve made to ensure the continued success and growth of our wonderful school.
While I have a deep respect for the work you’ve done, I believe there are opportunities to further enhance our district by strengthening communication, leadership, transparency, community engagement, using online portals, involving stakeholders, prioritizing accessibility, educating the community, and ensuring success in a way that aligns with all taxpayer priorities. My vision is to ensure that the voices of all key stakeholders – parents, students, teachers, staff, administration, and the broader Anchorage community – are actively listened to and reflected in decision-making. Effective communication helps build healthy relationships, reduces unnecessary conflict, and promotes better understanding. It’s essential that we all work collaboratively to not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of our district.
I look forward to building on the remarkable foundation that has been laid by this board. With my unwavering passion for improving communication, fostering transparency, inclusion, leadership, and ensuring genuine community engagement, I am eager to bring fresh, innovative perspectives that will drive our district forward. My goal is to elevate our beloved Anchorage School to even greater heights by embracing new ideas, utilizing modern technological tools, and ensuring that every decision we make truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our students, families, educators, and the entire Anchorage community.
Together, we can not only sustain the progress that has been made but also push beyond the status quo, ensuring that our district is a model of excellence, inclusivity, and forward-thinking solutions. I am committed to working alongside all stakeholders to make meaningful, purposeful, lasting enhancements that will benefit our school for years to come; not only for my children, but also one day for my future grandchildren (if I am so blessed).
How to Vote
1. Check Your Registration: Ensure you are registered to vote and that your information is up-to-date.
To check your voter registration information visit the Voter Information Center, click this link: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/vic/
Hey, are you 17 years old? You may register to vote in Kentucky as a 17-year-old if you will be 18 years old by the next General Election, which will be November 5, 2024. Get registered!!
If you’re a college student registered to vote in Kentucky and you’re unable to vote in your precinct on election day, you may apply for an absentee ballot with your county clerk, click this link: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/County-Clerks.aspx
Would you like more information? If you have any questions about voting, please contact the Kentucky State Board of Elections at (502)573-7100.
2. Know the Election Date: Be aware of Election Day and any important deadlines for Absentee Ballots or early voting.
The General Election is Tuesday November 5, 2024.
3. Prepare Your Ballot: Familiarize yourself with the ballot and any voting procedures to ensure a smooth voting experience. (Make sure you select my name, Elizabeth Kolk!)
View the Voter Information Portal for useful information on deadlines, absentee ballot requests, registration review and absentee ballot status, new/update registration, military & overseas voters, polling locations, poll worker volunteer opportunities, candidate filings, sample ballots, election results (when all the votes are processed), and key information. Click this link: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/ovrweb/govoteky
ANCHORAGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 11403 PARK ROAD ANCHORAGE, KY 40223
The Absentee Ballot Portal for Mail-In Absentee Ballots opens on September 21, 2024 through October 22, 2024 – it is open NOW! Click here to Request an Absentee Ballot: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/abrweb/
The 2024 General Election is Tuesday November 5, 2024.
The Registration Deadline for the 2024 General Election is October 7, 2024 at 4:00 P.M. local time. If you are not registered on or before this date, you are not eligible to request an Absentee Ballot or Vote in person during the Election.
4. Get Out There & Vote: Go to your local polling location and cast your vote! Please Note: The Anchorage School Board is Non-Partisan, so in order for your vote to count DO NOT do a Straight Party vote. Please individually select the 2 Candidates out of 4 that you are voting for.
5. Do You Need Transportation: As we approach Election Day, it’s important that everyone in our great Anchorage community has the opportunity to cast their vote. If you or someone you know needs a ride to the polling location, I have a solution! My two tenacious and thoughtful twins are offering their transportation services to ensure everyone can get to their polling location on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Whether it’s a lift in their spacious Radio Flyer wagon, a speedy ride in their upgraded Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler (complete with top-of-the-line all-wheel-drive tires and a new 20V battery for extra speed), or even a fun trip on their bicycle handlebars, they’re ready to assist. These chivalrous little gentlemen are available all day (no school that day) to provide rides and help our community make every vote count. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need transportation. We’re all in this together!
My children took it upon themselves to create these thoughtful, colorful drawings in support of my candidacy for the Anchorage School Board. These pictures represent not only their love for me as their Mom, but also their belief in the positive changes we can bring to our school together. Their creativity reminds me of why I’m running – to ensure ALL students in our district have access to the best education possible and a future full of opportunity. I’m incredibly touched by their support and even more motivated to make a difference for all the children in our fabulous community.
Your Feedback Is Incredibly Important To Me: I’d Love to Hear It & Respond!
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be beyond honored to earn your vote on November 5, 2024. Together, we can make a positive impact on our community’s educational future. I’m 100% committed to empowering student success, maintaining our high standards of educational excellence, supporting teachers, and transparency for all. Let’s work together to build a stronger future for APS. Vote for progress! Vote for positive change!
