• Navigating Trust and Boundaries: Why Teachers Need Policies on Sexuality in the Classroom

    The topic of sex and sexuality in our classrooms is undoubtedly one of the most delicate challenges educators face today. Many teachers I’ve spoken with feel unprepared to navigate this complex terrain without clear, consistent guidelines. Some have voiced discomfort when they receive book donations on these subjects—well-intentioned, perhaps, but often ill-suited for the age

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  • Balancing Inclusivity and Fairness: Bathrooms and sports

    I want to speak today about a topic that has become increasingly fraught: gender identity and its implications for public spaces like bathrooms and sports teams. I know this conversation can feel like a minefield, but I believe we need to be able to talk about it openly, honestly, and with compassion for everyone involved.

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  • Help Shape the Conversation: Submit Your Questions for the LWV Mankato School Board Forum

    I’ve heard that several people are interested in learning more about upcoming debates. There will be a Mankato ISD77 School Board candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of St. Peter Area on September 26, 2024, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at the Mankato West High School Cafeteria, located at 1351 S. Riverfront

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  • Driving student rigor

    By: Elizabeth Hanke I’d like to extend my gratitude to Holly Marie Moore for capturing my stance on several important educational issues. You can read her full article, “Candidate Elizabeth Hanke Wants to Drive Student Rigor.“ Here are some of my favorite quotes from her article: “Having kids in the district and exchange students and

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  • Presentation of Mankato School Board Candidate Applications

    The candidate applications are presented in the order they appeared on the district website, except for my own, which I placed at the beginning. I have redacted phone numbers and addresses for privacy. You can click on Names in bold to be brought to the original application. Elizabeth Hanke Background: I am a dedicated business

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