As I’ve been canvassing, I’ve noticed that many voters are surprised to find that the school board ballot does not indicate which candidates are incumbents. To help you be a more informed voter, I’ve posted a sample ballot with the following information:

• New Entrants: Elizabeth Hanke, Tim Flynn, Joel Hollerich, and Tracy Fredrick Corcoran
• Incumbents: Liz Ratcliff, Erin Roberts, and Chris Kind

Additionally, here are some resources to learn more about each candidate’s positions:

• GMG Written Q&A
• LWV Video Q and A
• School Board Member application

This way, you’ll have all the details you need to cast an educated vote!

You can find out more

You can find out more about me and my platform by visiting elizabethhanke.com

Here is a SAMPLE ballot, with one version highlighting my name and another without. Please note that candidate names may appear in different orders, so take a moment to familiarize yourself with all the candidates.

You can but do not have to vote for 4 candidates

I am writing to enthusiastically endorse Elizabeth Hanke for the Mankato Area School Board.

Having canvassed alongside Hanke, I have witnessed firsthand her deep commitment to listening to the community’s concerns and genuinely engaging with the issues that matter most to our schools. Her attentiveness to the needs of Mankato’s families is refreshing, whether the conversation is about increasing access to remedial services, addressing transportation needs, or ensuring safe and consistent disciplinary standards for all students.

Hanke is also a strong advocate for creating inclusive spaces for all students. I deeply appreciate her stance against restricting access to school activities by race. She understands that every student should have the opportunity to participate, succeed and feel a part of their school community. Her vision is one of unity, where we work together to foster an environment that celebrates the potential in each child.

Hanke and I share the belief that our primary investment should be in the classroom, directly supporting teachers and students. We both stand for prioritizing funding where it impacts students most while carefully managing administrative growth. This approach ensures that resources go where they are needed most— into the hands of those working directly with our students.

Hanke’s dedication to our schools and students is undeniable. I am confident that she will serve as a valuable advocate for all of Mankato’s children, teachers and families, helping to shape a stronger future for our community.

Julie Strusz

Mankato