IRON MOUNTAIN — Five candidates are on the ballot for three four-year terms on the Iron Mountain School Board.

They are James Carollo, Joshua David Chevalier, Darren Petschar, Jennifer Solka and incumbent Eli Ward.

Juan M. Saldana is the lone candidate for a partial term on the school board ending Dec. 31, 2026.

Leaving the board are incumbents Lisa Basanese, Geno Basanese and Rob Langsford.

The six were asked two basic questions about their candidacy: Why did they decide to run for school board and what do they think they bring to the board? Their responses and other information follow —

Jim Carollo

Age: 64

Background: Marketing director, The Pasty Oven. Served two terms on the Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce Board and one term on the Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area Board.

Past elected positions: First run for public office.

“I am a third-generation Mountaineer and my children are fourth-generation Mountaineer graduates of IMHS. I am an active supporter of the district. Iron Mountain Public Schools has been making a lot of upgrades and improvements in recent years and I would like to see this continue.

“With three long-serving board members retiring, it is important to have board members who know the history of the district. I have worked in business, management and finance and believe my experiences and skill set can significantly contribute to helping the district innovate while maintaining our rich Iron Mountain traditions. Go Mountaineers!”

Joshua Chevalier

Age: 40

Background: Now substitute teacher. Retired from U.S. Air Force last November after 20 years. Was technology instructor, working with Saudi Arabian students. Originally from Manitowoc-Two Rivers area of Wisconsin.

Past elected positions: First run for public office.

“With a deep commitment to educational excellence, I am running to help build an environment that meets the diverse needs of our students, families and educators.

“Having been part of the Iron Mountain community for two years, I admit isn’t a long time; however, since living here, It didn’t take me long to see the strengths that make our schools special and the areas where we can grow. I am running because I believe that a collaborative, future-focused school board is vital to our district’s success.

“I am confident that I can bring the following strengths to the Iron Mountain School Board team —

— A fresh perspective and innovative ideas: I believe in finding new, forward-thinking ways to tackle challenges and improve the student experience. By championing programs that foster critical thinking, technology literacy, and creative learning, I aim to support a district that prepares students for the future.

— Strong communication and collaboration skills: I am committed to encouraging open communication between the board, parents, educators, and the community at large. I value diverse perspectives and know that inclusive dialogue helps us develop well-rounded, impactful policies.

— Experience in fiscal responsibility and transparency: I understand the importance of careful budgeting and financial stewardship. My experience as a resource advisor in the Air Force gave me the ability to manage, budget, and maintain four multi-billion-dollar government accounts. This experience allows me to contribute a strategic approach to resource allocation that prioritizes initiatives with meaningful, measurable outcomes for our students.

— Dedication to supporting educators and staff: I am passionate about ensuring that our teachers, administrators, and support staff have what they need to thrive. By advocating for policies that promote professional growth, well-being, and high-quality teaching environments, I aim to empower our educators to continue delivering excellence in the classroom.”

Darren Petschar

Age: 60

Background: In second year as an elementary teacher in the School District of Niagara, Wis. Retired administrator of Woodland Elementary after 26 years. Was previously an administrator in the Shawano School District in Wisconsin. Has a total of 38 years in education.

Past elected positions: First run for public office.

“I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Iron Mountain School Board, motivated by a deep commitment to advocating for our local schools. With 38 years of experience in education across various districts in Wisconsin and Michigan, I bring a wealth of knowledge and insight to this role.

“Having served as an elementary and middle school teacher, as well as a principal in both small and large school systems, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities our students and educators face. My goal is to ensure that our policies reflect the best interests of our students, staff, and the entire community. Together, we can foster an environment where every child has the support and resources they need to thrive. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and make a positive impact on our schools.

“As a candidate for the Iron Mountain School Board, I will bring a strong advocacy for our schools and a commitment to fostering an exceptional educational environment for all. With my extensive knowledge and experience in education, I aim to have a direct impact on our school system by influencing policies and decisions that prioritize student success.

I believe in the importance of accountability and collaboration among parents, educators, and the community. Together, we can create a supportive network that enhances the learning experience for every student in the Iron Mountain School system.”

Juan Saldana

Age: 45

Background: Retail manager, Advance Auto Parts in Iron Mountain for about three years. In management much of his past career — other experience includes area supervisor, four years, Systems Control; and manager at Target stores in Chicago and then Marquette.

Past elected office: Previously ran for school board. Served one term on the Iron Mountain City Council after being elected in 2017.

He is the lone candidate for a partial term on the school board ending Dec. 31, 2026.

“The reason I decided to run for the board position is simple: I believe in education. I believe that education can make someone successful, that education can be a tool to open many doors for a bright future to a student. I want kids in the area and the community to succeed on their goals and dreams and achieve their full potential at whatever they put their minds to, and education can help them turn into reality. By becoming a board member, I want to be an advocate for them and provide the necessary support, guidance and resources to see them grow and be something they can feel proud.

“The things that I feel I bring to the board are a few to mention. The ones to come in mind are passion, as I love the community and the school system we have here in IM. I am invested in the well-being of the students; therefore, I will do what is best for the school and the child, not what is best for myself. I believe I bring fairness, meaning that decisions to be made are going to be with a scope of the outcome for a better result, not focusing on bias factors. Lastly, being from a Hispanic background, I feel that I bring a different and unique point of view, some experiences and insights that can benefit many Spanish-speaking families in the area for their children to be inclusive and work towards a common goal.”

Jenn Solka

Age: 54

Background: Faculty developer at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. Previously taught in the business division for Western Technical College in La Crosse, Wis., for about 10 years. Was director of the Northern Lights YMCA in Iron Mountain when it first opened.

Past elected positions: First run for public office.

“Why am I running? I want to give back to the community. I am passionate about education and deeply care about teachers and students. I believe schools are the foundation of a community and should be safe environments where every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive, grow and succeed.

“What do I bring to the board? I am uniquely qualified to serve on the board with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in education, years of teaching experience, as well as my previous role as director of the YMCA. I bring strong communication skills, effective mediation abilities, and solid business acumen.”

Eli Ward

Age: 47

Background: President and general manager of Northern RV Center. Coaches Iron Mountain High School varsity bowling.

Past elected offices: Appointed to school board in July 2023.

“I originally decided to run for the school board because of my two daughters that are in the district. I saw things happening at schools across the country that I did not agree with and wanted to make sure I had a voice at Iron Mountain. We have no right to complain if we are not willing to be involved. I decided to run again because although it is not easy, we have done some great things while I have been on the board. I want to help keep us pointed in the right direction. We have a great district and I want to keep it that way.

“I feel that I bring some fresh ‘outside the box’ thinking to the board. I am not always right, but I am not afraid to ask questions and challenge the status quo. I stand on my principles and only want the best for our students and teachers. I also enjoy being involved and have donated a lot of my time helping with various projects around the district.”