Regardless of the outcome, the Noblesville School Board was going to have at least one new member with two at-large seats available between candidates Kevin Kalstad, Carl Johnson IV and incumbent Julia Church Kozicki. Kalstad received the most votes (5,339) with Kozicki in second with 5,215 votes. Johnson finished with 4,827 votes.
“I have to thank the community for their overwhelming support today (Nov. 4) with my selection to the Noblesville School Board. I am humbled, and honored to serve our district in this vital role,” Kalstad said. “I look forward working closely with my fellow board members and (Supt.) Dr. Beth Niedermeyer in early 2015 and for the next four years. We have some challenging obstacles, but with a collegial and balanced approach to all matters, I know it can be a win-win for the entire district.”
Kalstad said he and the board should think “Student first” with all of their decisions.
“That philosophy must drive our projects, systems, and spending,” he said. “I heard many times during the campaign the great need for an advocate for every student in our district. I will be available to those students, and families.”
Johnson said the experience was one he is grateful for having, despite the outcome.
“Sure there’s disappointment, but it’s been overshadowed by the nature of this experience,” Johnson said. “I had so many great conversations with people in person over the past six months. People with great ideas, 30 to 40 years of experience in education, passion for supporting teachers, the best interests of kids at heart, and a love for our community. I never would have had the chance to meet many of these folks let alone hear their ideas and their stories if I hadn’t run for the school board. To be honest, I’m finding myself inspired by the whole experience with a renewed sense of appreciation for those that give their time and effort to the schools.”
Johnson said it was the first time since seventh grade he ran in an election.
“I got a lot more votes (this time),” he said. “I’m going to keep volunteering and helping out where I can.”
Kozicki, the lone incumbent running for reelection, earned a third term.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Noblesville one more time,” she said. “It is a privilege to work with Noblesville Schools. I am proud to serve my hometown school.”
Even with her political experience, Kozicki said the wait for results wasn’t an easy one.
“It is always nerve-wracking,” she said. “They are never easy or fun.”
Kozicki said the results “were clear that some people are unhappy.”
“We’re certainly working to address communication issues,” she said. “Overall, things are awesome at Noblesville Schools. We are working to communicate that message.”
