July 2026 article
By Superintendent Tammy Champa
Every community has people who quietly make a difference.
They're the ones who volunteer, coach youth sports, support local businesses, cheer from the stands at school events, and believe deeply in creating opportunities for the next generation.
Some of those same people become school board members.
As superintendent of Owatonna Public Schools, I've had the privilege of working alongside incredibly talented and dedicated board members who share their time—not because it's easy, but because they believe our students deserve the very best. They understand that strong public schools are one of the greatest investments a community can make, and they're willing to roll up their sleeves to provide thoughtful governance that helps shape the future of our schools.
At Owatonna Public Schools, our mission is simple but powerful: Inspiring Excellence. Every Learner, Every Day. That mission guides the work of every employee across our district, and it also serves as the foundation for the decisions made by the Owatonna School Board. Every policy adopted, every budget approved, and every strategic conversation begins with a shared commitment to creating opportunities for every student to succeed.
This November, our community will have the opportunity to elect individuals who will help guide our district for years to come. School board members set the vision for the district. They establish policies, oversee responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, hire and evaluate the superintendent, and make decisions that impact thousands of students and employees. Those responsibilities are significant, but at their heart is one simple question:
"What's best for kids?"
That question guides every meaningful discussion.
The work isn't always easy. Public education is constantly evolving, and board members are often asked to consider complex issues from many perspectives. They spend hours reading reports, attending meetings, listening to community members, asking thoughtful questions, and making decisions that may not always be popular but are intended to serve students today and into the future.
If you've ever thought, "I'd like to make a difference," this may be your opportunity.
The filing period for the 2026 school board election runs July 14 through July 28. To be eligible, candidates must be at least 21 years old, be an eligible voter, have lived in the district for at least 30 days, and meet Minnesota's legal eligibility requirements.
As superintendent, I can say with confidence that the strength of a school district is measured not only by the students in its classrooms or the educators in its schools, but also by the community members who are willing to step forward and lead. If we are to fulfill our mission of Inspiring Excellence. Every Learner, Every Day, we need thoughtful, dedicated leaders who are committed to that same purpose.
Our students deserve champions. Our staff deserve partners. Our community deserves a school board that reflects its values, embraces thoughtful leadership, and believes in the limitless potential of every learner.
If your heart is in this community and you believe in the power of public education, I hope you'll consider answering the call to serve.
Together, we can continue Inspiring Excellence. Every Learner, Every Day.
Interested in running for the Owatonna School Board?
- Candidate Filing Period: July 14–28, 2026
- Election Day: November 3, 2026
- Learn more at: www.isd761.org/election
- Call the District Office: 507-444-8600