Verify, Then Trust
It’s Time to Restore Trust in Our Schools
Our students, teachers, and families deserve responsible leadership, transparent decisions, and financial stewardship that puts classrooms first.
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Saying the Hard Things On the Record
When it mattered most, Robert Barr spoke up for the people of our community.
- Spoke up as budget gaps grew
- Demanded accountability when funds were moved without board approval
- Raised concerns about financial oversight and internal controls
- Asked tough questions when audit findings revealed serious problems
- Opposed tax increases to cover budgeting failures
What financial safeguards are in place to ensure this doesn’t happen again?
We've approved Policy 3330 Contract Administration.
1. Clear Approval Authority
A policy has been approved by the committee that contracts that paid with funds from the central office also need to be sent to the Director of Finance for pre-auditing before any work or purchase is initiated. This prevents informal or unauthorized agreements that can spiral out of control.
2. Accountability for Performance
Staff is presenting regularly to the Board, so that the Board can closely monitor budgeting and spending.
3. Financial Management Software
The district is implementing a new ERP - financial software program - with more controls and processes that support sound financial planning and management.
4. Ongoing Reviews Cooperation
We continue to work with the State Auditor's office and the State Board of Education on reviews of our internal controls and responses to their findings and recommendations to improve financial management.
5. Board Training Sessions to Support Growth
The Board has engaged in several training sessions to support growth and understanding around budget and financial management of district resources.
Safe Schools, Open Futures
Keeping students safe takes more than a single solution - it takes a layered, common-sense approach. Robert supports using Open Gate screening systems to help deter weapons at school entrances, paired with a visible law enforcement presence, strong community partnerships, and access to school counselors who address issues before they escalate. Safety works best when prevention, protection, and support work together - creating schools where students can focus on learning, not fear.
Protect the School Choice Program
Families know their children best, and education should reflect that. School choice gives parents the ability to find learning environments that fit their child’s needs — whether that’s academic focus, safety, support services, or values. Protecting school choice means respecting families, expanding opportunity, and ensuring no student is limited by a one-size-fits-all system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about Robert Barr, the school board, or where things stand today?
Who is Robert Barr?#
I’m a longtime educator, community member, and current school board member. I ran for this role to help protect students, support teachers, and make sure our schools are managed responsibly.
You were on the board when the budget problems happened. Why should I trust you?#
That’s a fair question. When the financial issues became clear, I spoke up, asked hard questions, and pushed for accountability and transparency. Leadership isn’t about pretending problems didn’t happen — it’s about how you respond when they do.
Why did the district end up in such a large financial hole?#
The short answer is poor oversight and spending decisions that weren’t aligned with available funds. That’s why stronger controls, audits, and transparency are so important moving forward.
What did you personally do when the problems came to light?#
I raised concerns publicly, questioned unclear financial reports, supported independent oversight, and pushed for changes to prevent the same mistakes from happening again.
Why were so many staff positions cut?#
The budget gap forced difficult decisions that should never have reached that point. When funding isn’t managed responsibly, real people are affected — and that’s exactly why accountability matters.
Do you support raising taxes to fix the problem?#
I believe taxpayers shouldn’t be asked to cover for mismanagement. My focus is on responsible budgeting, transparency, and living within our means.
Some people say you’re too outspoken or confrontational. How do you respond?#
I understand not everyone likes tough conversations. But I believe silence isn’t leadership. Speaking up respectfully and honestly is part of doing the job voters elected me to do.
What are your top priorities if you’re elected again?#
Financial accountability, school safety and stability, supporting teachers and staff, and rebuilding trust with families and taxpayers.
How do you feel about school safety?#
Safety is foundational. That includes proper staffing, supervision, planning, and making sure schools are stable and prepared - not stretched thin by poor decisions.