Who is running for School Board?

Four Candidates are vying for two open seats on Troy's Board of Education

Every two years, voters head to the polls throughout the state to elect members to boards of education. Troy is no exception to this. Many times these elections are low-key affairs, but the 2023 School Board election takes on a bit more interest.

Not only will voters be asked to choose two members of the city’s school board, voters are also making the important decision to vote in a combined bond/levy issue that will build new schools in the community. Regardless if that measure passes or fails, the new school board will have to deal with the next steps after the November vote.

The candidates have been hard at work putting forward their ideas and visions. After reviewing information in local media and through the Chamber’s Meet the Candidate nights, this publication is putting forward this guide to help give a fair representation of the candidates.

Sarah Davis

• Background: At 43, Mrs. Davis is stepping into the world of elections for the first time. She graduated from Versailles High School and later got her associate’s degree in marketing design and business. Sarah is currently a design coach. For the past 23 years, she's called Troy her home, where she's raising three kids aged 15 to 21 with her husband, Rob.

• Focus: Davis wants to be the voice that truly understands parents. She is particularly concerned about upcoming decisions related to school construction and believes in keeping everyone informed. Sarah has also noticed parents' concerns about homework and library content. She’s determined to ensure the best for children and staff as education changes.

• Strengths: Having lived in Troy for over two decades, Davis has a deep understanding of the community. She's also keen on improving communication within the school district, suggesting the formation of sub-committees and regular reminders for meetings.

Brian Honeycutt

• Background: At 47, Mr. Honeycutt brings 20 years of experience in education. A proud graduate of Troy High School, Brian went on to get his bachelor's from Bowling Green State University and a master's from the University of Dayton. He's currently working on his PhD from the University of Dayton. Brian and his wife, Krissy, are raising three children in Troy.

• Focus: Honeycutt is concerned about old school buildings and believes new ones could improve safety and technology for students. He also has a keen interest in ensuring teacher retention and understands the complexities of school funding.

• Strengths: With two decades in education, Honeycutt knows the ins and outs of the system. He also values open communication, suggesting regular meetings akin to superintendent interactions.

Timothy Horgan (Tim)

• Background: Mr. Horgan, 40, works as a physician recruiter. He has served 21 years in the Air Force, which has given him valuable experience in teamwork. He's not just thinking about the present – with a young first-grader and another child who’s only 2½ years old, Horgan is thinking about the future of Troy schools.

• Focus: Horgan is very passionate about the need for new school buildings. He's also quite worried about inappropriate content in classrooms. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of transparency within the board.

• Strengths: His military background could make this candidate skilled at collaborating with various groups, ensuring the best for the students.

Ben Redick

• Background: Mr. Redick, 43, graduated from Troy High School and later received his degree in organizational management from Bluffton University. Today, he's a real estate broker at Bruns Realty Group. Together with his wife Kati, Ben is raising two daughters who attend Troy schools.

• Focus: Redick is looking at the challenges that come with potential upgrades to school facilities, especially after the tax vote. He emphasizes the importance of respecting taxpayers and wants to create an inclusive environment for all – students, staff, parents, and taxpayers.

• Strengths: Redick’s community involvement and executive leadership skills make Ben a strong candidate. With his private sector experience, Redick brings a unique analytical approach to board decisions.

Let's Talk Issues:

• Funding: This is always a challenging area. While Davis wants to focus on broader policies, Honeycutt suggests an increase in open enrollment numbers for extra funds. Redick stresses efficient budgeting and exploring grant funding for special projects.

• District Strengths and Areas of Improvement: Davis is proud of the district’s dedicated staff but feels communication can be better. Honeycutt loves the quality of education but believes there’s room for growth in facilities and student well-being. Redick praises the district's community support, though he sees the aging infrastructure as a concern.

Final Thoughts: Each candidate brings something unique to the table. Davis' parent-focused insights, Horgan's military experience, Honeycutt's deep knowledge of education, and Redicks's community-driven leadership all present promising futures for Troy City Schools.

Remember, your vote can shape the future of education in Troy. So, think about what matters most to you, and let your voice be heard on Nov. 7. Your vote truly counts, trust me, I probably know more about this than most people! If you want more details, check out each candidate's Facebook page. Let’s aim for the best for our schools. Happy voting, Troy!