3 questions: What’s next for Fairfield’s newest school board member?

Fairfield Board of Education’s newest member has never held political office before and will decide in the coming weeks whether she will pursue the seat in the fall election.

Jerrilynn Gundrum was appointed by school board members last week to fill the seat of recently resigned, former member Dan Hare.

Gundrum is an attorney and was chosen by the board to fill Hare’s seat through Dec. 31 unless she decides to seek voter approval in the Butler County school system to serve an additional four-years.

“I hope to know within the new few weeks,” she said in response to the question of adding her name to the Nov. 5 ballot.

Gundrum is also an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati. In the community she has been active with the Fairfield Township Youth Basketball League, including its board.

The Fairfield Township resident – the 10,000-student Fairfield Schools serves both the township and the city of Fairfield – said there are few things more important than local, public education for any community’s future.

“The success of today’s youth will affect the entire community for years to come,” she said.

“Regardless of whether students go on to college, vocational training, or directly into the workforce after graduation, helping the district’s students realize their full potential ultimately helps the entire community in the long run,” said Gundrum.

The Journal-News asked the new school board member three questions.

1. Why did you apply to fill the vacant seat on the Fairfield Board of Education?

“When I was in private law practice, I spent a lot of time working in the juvenile courts. This ultimately led to an interest in education law. When the opportunity to apply for the school board position came up, it felt like a good way to merge my interest in education law and my desire to serve the community.”

2. What are among your top priorities as a new board member?

“I hope to work well with the school board, administration, and faculty to help students be successful and realize their potential in a safe environment.”

3. What would you most like Fairfield school district residents to know about you?

“I have a strong work ethic and a desire to give back to the community. I will work to the best of my abilities to serve the best interest of the district and the students.

The success of today’s youth will affect the entire community for years to come. Regardless of whether students go on to college, vocational training, or directly into the workforce after graduation, helping the district’s students realize their full potential ultimately helps the entire community in the long run.

About the Author