Submitted by Kelsey Brewer
BALDWIN-WOODVILLE, WI – There are three candidates running for the Baldwin-Woodville School Board and three spots available:
Dave Becker
Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up?
For the past 18 years, we have proudly called the Baldwin-Woodville area home. Growing up in the small town of Chetek, WI, I developed a deep appreciation for the close-knit spirit that small communities foster. My wife, Julie, and our two children, Evan and Bennett, have cherished being active and engaged members of the Baldwin community.
What made you want to run for the school board?
My goal is to become more involved in the community, and I see this as a very meaningful way to do so. Having observed education from multiple perspectives—especially through my wife’s 26 years of teaching—I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication and effort teachers invest in their students. I want to support both educators and students by contributing to their educational experiences. I believe a strong educational system is essential in shaping the future of our children, ultimately strengthening our entire community.
What do you believe is the most positive aspect of the district that sets it apart and makes it a great place for students and the community?
I see a strong sense of pride throughout the district—from teachers and students to coaches and district leaders. The moment you walk into the schools, you can feel it. This pride extends beyond the school walls and into the entire community. I experienced it firsthand while watching the football team advance to the state playoffs. The overwhelming support from students, families, and community members created an incredible atmosphere, truly showcasing the unity and spirit that make this district so special.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
My goal is to support the success of every student by fostering an environment where all children have the opportunity to thrive. Having lived in Baldwin for many years, I deeply appreciate the strength and unity of this community. I am especially passionate about ensuring that every student has equal access to a high-quality education. Additionally, I recognize the importance of fiscal responsibility as a school board member. It is essential that we serve as good stewards of taxpayer dollars, ensuring resources are used effectively to benefit students and the community.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
I have dedicated my entire career to the nonprofit and social sectors and currently serve as the President and CEO of Angel Foundation, a Twin Cities nonprofit supporting cancer patients. With over 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience, I bring expertise in fiscal management, community development, audit preparation, communications, evidence-based programming, and policy oversight. My work has been deeply focused on serving the community. This background, combined with my passion for community service, would be a valuable asset as a member of the Baldwin-Woodville School District Board of Directors.
Education has always been a cornerstone of my career. As a lifelong advocate for its transformative power, I have worked to empower individuals, educate communities on critical health issues, and support those in need. As a School Board member, I would be committed to leveraging my strategic leadership skills to help Baldwin-Woodville schools thrive—prioritizing inclusivity, transparency, and meaningful impact that aligns with the needs of our community.
Monica Polk
Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up?
My name is Monica Polk. My husband and I have three kids in the Baldwin-Woodville School District ages 16, 14 and 11. We have lived in the Baldwin-Woodville School District since 2005. I grew up in the neighboring town of Spring Valley. I work as a Registered Nurse in Hammond and Amery. In my free time, I like to go the gym and work at the Baldwin Food Shelf. In the summers we love to go to our cabin up north and spend time with family and friends.
What made you want to run for the school board?
I am running for school board because I have three children in the School District and I have a vested interest in what happens within our schools. I think it’s important to provide the best possible education to our children, while also being a responsible steward of our taxpayer dollars. I would like to have a voice in the school district that our children will be attending for the next seven years.
What do you believe is the most positive aspect of the district that sets it apart and makes it a great place for students and the community?
We are extremely lucky because our district has amazing teachers. Our community and School District has been growing, but it still has that “small town” feel, which sets it apart from others. That “small town” feel includes values and life lessons that get lost in larger School Districts, and I want to protect that.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
There’s not a particular issue that is motivating me to run. In general, I think we need to keep common sense and practicality within our schools.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
Working in healthcare for 20+years has taught me invaluable skills. They include listening and thinking outside of the box. I am a good problem solver and can have an open mind with solutions. As a registered nurse, I’m an advocate for my patients on a daily basis. That has developed an ability to advocate for what is best for the kids and community. It is a skill that I have learned and fostered over years of care conferences and meetings, focusing on the best outcome after weighing all options.
Austin VanDamme
Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up?
My name is Austin VanDamme and I am running for re-election to the Baldwin-Woodville School District Board in April. I was a 2003 graduate from Baldwin-Woodville and have lived in the Baldwin-Woodville area the majority of my life living on the family farm. I live with my wife Jess and 3 of our 4 children. Two of our daughters were graduates from Baldwin-Woodville and we also have a daughter in 6th grade and a son in 4th grade. I work as a pilot plant supervisor at 3M and also run a small business at my residence.
What made you want to run for the school board?
The reason that I ran for school board three years ago and the reasons I am seeking re-election have not changed. I want to give back to this great community and create the best possible environment for our children by giving them the best opportunities to learn and grow so they can become productive and successful members of society.
What do you believe is the most positive aspect of the district that sets it apart and makes it a great place for students and the community?
I believe there are many positive aspects of our district but there is one that stands out the most to me. That is the quality of our district’s staff, this includes the admin team, teachers, and support staff. Baldwin-Woodville’s high quality staff is dedicated and passionate about giving our children the best opportunities to grow and learn. I am also proud of how they create an open and welcoming atmosphere to new students and staff.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
There is not just one particular issue that motivates me to serve on the board of education for Baldwin-Woodville. I want Baldwin-Woodville to offer the best education and learning environment not only in our area but also in the state. I also want to make sure we keep the polarization of our nation’s politics from getting in the way of our children getting a great education.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
Previous school board experience and the various committees I have served on while on the board have prepared me to continue my service to our children and this community.
I hope to get your vote in April and look forward to continuing my service to our district.
