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LISTENING, LEADING, & SERVING
Our schools shape the future of our children and strengthen the future of our community. As a parent, Navy commander, chaplain, and longtime community volunteer, I've dedicated my life to serving others.
Hi, I'm Jennifer Anderson, and I'm running for the Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools School Board because I believe we need thoughtful, collaborative leadership that listens, works respectfully, and always keeps students at the center of every decision.
Together, we can build on our strengths, meet today's challenges, and ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.
ABOUT ME
I've spent my life serving others through ministry, military service, and my local community. As an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church with more than 23 years of ministry experience, I've served in local pastoral ministry, hospital chaplaincy, and, for the past 18 years, as a chaplain in the United States Navy, both on active duty and in the Navy Reserve. Today, as Commander Anderson, I serve as the Deputy Wing Chaplain for 4th Marine Aircraft Wing.
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In 2020, I transitioned from active duty to the Navy Reserve to devote more time to raising my family, investing in my neighborhood, and serving the community I call home. Since then, I've served as President on my neighborhood HOA board and the Redtail Ridge Elementary PTC, coached youth soccer, remained active in my church, and cherished living close to family.
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Education has always been an important part of my family's story. From my grandmother's work in school child nutrition to my sister, aunts, and uncles who have served as educators, I learned early on the vital role public schools play in strengthening our communities.
Above all, I'm the proud mom of Thaddeus, a rising sixth grader in Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools. As both a parent and a lifelong public servant, I understand that strong schools are built through listening, collaboration, and a commitment to serving others.
WHY I'M RUNNING
I believe in community. And I believe strong public education is the foundation of a thriving community.
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Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools are at an important moment. Our district has faced difficult financial decisions, including budget reductions and school closures, and there are still important challenges ahead. Now more than ever, we need thoughtful leadership that listens, builds trust, and keeps students at the center of every decision.
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I'm running because I believe our community deserves school board members who lead with integrity, work collaboratively, and focus on solutions. While we may not always agree, we can approach challenges with respect and a shared commitment to doing what is best for students.
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Service has always been at the heart of who I am. As my son begins middle school and my military career approaches retirement, I feel called to serve our community in a new way. After thoughtful consideration and encouragement from community members, I believe this is the right time to step forward.
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I love this community, I believe in our schools, and I am ready to serve Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools with integrity, collaboration, and a focus on student success.
WHAT I BRING TO THE SCHOOL BOARD
A Lifetime of Service
For more than two decades, I've dedicated my career to serving others through ministry and military service. Those experiences have shaped my approach to leadership—leading with integrity, putting people first, and staying committed to the mission even during challenging times.
A Parent & Community Perspective
As a parent of a student in Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, a volunteer, coach, and active member of this community, I understand the experiences and concerns of families firsthand. I care deeply about creating schools where students are supported, educators are valued, and families feel connected to their schools.
Bringing People Together
Throughout my career, I've worked with diverse groups of people to solve problems, build consensus, and accomplish shared goals. Serving as a chaplain has reinforced the importance of listening first, building trust, and creating space for respectful conversations. I believe the best decisions come when people feel heard, even when they don't always agree.
Fiscal Leadership
My experience managing budgets, overseeing contracts, and leading complex projects has given me a strong understanding of responsible resource management. I know that every decision has an impact, and I believe in making thoughtful choices that balance current needs with long-term goals.
MY COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION
Putting Students First
Every student deserves a learning environment where they feel supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed. As a school board member, I will keep student achievement, growth, and well-being at the center of every decision.