Hello, I'm Rikki Wold, and I'm running for the school board because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed in a safe, supportive, and challenging learning environment.

I was born and raised as a New London native, and it's the place I'm proud to call home. Like many families here, I care deeply about the future of our schools—not only for today's students, but for generations to come. I believe strong schools create strong communities, and I want to help ensure our district continues to provide an excellent education while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.

For the past 4.5 years, I've worked as a Correctional Officer at Prairie Lakes Youth Programs, along with 10+ years of volunteering at Kandiyohi County Restorative Justice, working directly with youth who have experienced difficult circumstances, behavioral challenges, trauma, and educational setbacks. Every day, I see the difference that caring adults, positive role models, accountability, and quality education can make in a young person's life.

That experience has given me a perspective that few people have. I've seen firsthand what happens when students don't receive the support they need early enough, and I've also seen incredible success stories when young people are given the tools, encouragement, and opportunities to grow. Those experiences have strengthened my belief that schools play one of the most important roles in shaping a child's future.

Throughout my career, I've worked closely with teachers, case managers, social workers, probation officers, families, and community members to help young people overcome challenges and prepare for successful lives. I've learned the importance of listening, working as a team, making thoughtful decisions, and always keeping the best interests of children at the center of every conversation.

Outside of my professional career, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, camping, traveling, being outdoors, hunting, fishing, watching my daughter race BMX, and staying active in the community. I believe in giving back and helping make our community an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

If elected, I will bring a practical, level-headed approach to every decision. My priorities are simple:

• Putting students first.

• Supporting teachers and all other school staff.

• Maintaining safe and welcoming schools.

• Offering supportive and a positive environment for every student and family.

• Being fiscally responsible with taxpayer dollars.

• Listening to parents, students, staff, and community members before making decisions.

• Preparing students not only for graduation, but for successful futures in college, careers, possible military services, and life.

• Transparency

I don't believe school board service should be about politics. It should be about people—our students, our educators, our families, and our community.

 I'm not running because I have all the answers. I'm running because I care deeply about our schools and community, I'm committed to listening, and I'm willing to put in the work necessary to make thoughtful decisions that benefit every student. I am running because there was a handful of teachers, coaches, and many other school staff who changed my life in this very community, who were there for me when no one else was. A community that put in the extra work, not for the money, not for attention, or because they were told they had to, but simply because they wanted to. This is the community and support I'd like to maintain and build for our kids. 

I would be honored to earn your trust and your vote.

 Together, we can continue building schools that make our entire community proud.

 VOTE RIKKI 

This November