In the news + Testimonials

Policy advocacy and news  

• Alpha News: Impact of new mandates a major concern for school districts and staff, committee hears 

• CBS News: Minnesota school leaders testify about budget woes in Senate hearing

• Dakota Tribune: Kyle Christensen files for second term on the Farmington School Board 

• Star Tribune: State awash in surplus, schools drowning in deficits 

• Dakota Tribune: Farmington School Board challenges unfunded mandates 

• Dakota Tribune: Farmington School Board adopts employee conduct policy 

Testimonials: 

Dakota Tribune: 2024 Letter to the Editor from Jeffrey Udell

I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for Kyle Christensen to be re-elected to the Farmington School Board. I’ve gotten to know Kyle and his family through my own service as president of the Parent-Teacher Partnership at North Trail Elementary. At that time, Kyle led the Cub Scout Pack at the school and coached baseball. Kyle and his wife, Lisa (who preceded me as PTP president), have always been among those parents stepping up to help make PTP events successful.

Kyle and I both ran for School Board in 2020. He had my support then, and even more so today. As a member of the board, and his service as board chair for two years, Kyle demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to our community.

I’d highlight a couple of strengths. First, Kyle is always available. During the pandemic he was there for anyone who had questions about ever changing rules, and more importantly, how parents could advocate for their kids. Second, he’s been a tireless advocate for our schools, particularly lobbying the Legislature for special education funding, school safety and more. Both examples require a willingness to work with people who may not see eye-to-eye, to empathize and seek understanding, and find common ground – exactly the type of leadership and experience we need on our School Board.

I wholeheartedly recommend Kyle Christensen for the Farmington School Board and urge my fellow community members to support his re-election too.

Jeffrey Udell

Dakota Tribune: 2024 Letter to the Editor from Kiera Sosinski

 I am writing to express my strong support for Kyle Christensen in his re-election bid for the School Board of District 192. Over the past four years, Kyle has made a significant impact on our schools by advocating for students and families, while also volunteering extensively within the community.

Throughout his tenure, Kyle has shown unwavering dedication to improving educational opportunities for all students. He has consistently listened to a diverse range of stakeholders, incorporating multiple perspectives into his recommendations and decisions. This was particularly crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, when rapid changes required adaptable policies to meet the evolving needs of students and teachers. His transparent communication and attentiveness to community members, educators, and staff have established him as a trusted voice in our community.

Beyond his board service, Kyle is committed to youth development through activities such as coaching baseball and mentoring Scouts. His involvement highlights his passion for fostering teamwork and leadership skills, as well as his understanding of the challenges children face outside the classroom.

Kyle embodies the values of our community — dedication, integrity, and a genuine desire to help our youth succeed. Re-electing him will ensure that our schools continue to thrive and adapt to the needs of students and families.

Kiera Sosinski, Farmington

Dakota Tribune: 2024 Letter to the Editor from Sue Dentinger, former member of the Farmington School Board and leader of The Tiger Fan Club, Marching Band Booster club and more: 

I’m writing to encourage all voters in the Farmington School District to re-elect Kyle Christensen and Hannah Johnson to the ISD 192 School Board. At a time when even public education is subject to divisiveness, Kyle and Hannah have, over the past four years, led the Farmington School Board by modeling civility, inclusion, and respect. Their approach enriches discussions at the board table and sets a positive example for others.

I’ve interacted with and sometimes advised the School Board extensively over the years, both as a parent deeply involved in the district and as a leader of the Tiger Fan Club and Band Boosters. I also served on the Board in 2022 when I was appointed to serve the remainder of a term created by a vacancy.

Through these experiences, I’ve gained a real appreciation for the unique leadership Kyle and Hannah bring to the table week after week. Each may approach the work differently, but both do so with humility and an open mind, committed to making good decisions for our schools and community. Their forward-thinking mindset has been instrumental in shaping policies that prioritize the well-being and success of our students.

Serving on a school board isn’t easy—I know. Farmington schools are fortunate to have solid leaders on its School Board. Kyle Christensen and Hannah Johnson have earned my trust, and I know many in our community support their re-election as enthusiastically as I do.

Sue Dentinger, Farmington

2020 endorsement from former Farmington School Board Director, Melissa Sauser

"Today I will recommend two candidates for school board: Kyle Christensen & Jeffrey Udell 

For me, three important qualities for a future board colleague are service, work ethic and passion for the kids in our district. 

I have known Kyle and his wife Lisa Christensen since our daughters were in preschool together and our sons both started trombone at the same time.  Kyle has a service record in local scouts, church and sports.  He has been engaged with the school board and district before regarding test scores, wanting to make sure that the students in our district our receiving the best education possible.

I have gotten to know Jeff through his service in North Trail Elementary’s PTP and at Dodge Middle School.  Jeff also has been an actor in various community theatre productions and it great to see one involved in their spark and volunteering time with other youth.  Jeff has also asked tough questions of the board and district when I have been in attendance at community meetings.

But lastly, I believe both Kyle & Jeff are willing to speak up on behalf of our students, teachers and community members at the board table without hesitation."

- Melissa Sauser, Director, Farmington School Board