Pair with school ties seeking board seat: Special ed instructor, former teacher vying for Seymour spot

A retired teacher is facing a challenge from a political newcomer with a background in special education for the Seymour seat on the Seymour Community school board.

On the ballot for Tuesday’s election are incumbent Art Juergens, 66, and James “Jim” Shepherd, 47, a behavior management specialist.

Juergens said being a high school social studies teacher for many years has given him insight into the school district from a teacher and student perspective.

“I taught high school social studies for many years and saw a lot of problems that needed addressing in our school system,” he said. “I always told my students that if you want to make a difference and make things better, you need to get involved.”

Although he’s no longer in the classroom, Juergens said he wants to remain an active part of the corporation by serving on the school board, a position he’s held for the past four years.

“I believe there are many things that still need to be improved upon in the Seymour Community School system,” he said. “I care deeply about the students and about giving them the best education possible.”

Juergens said he is proud of the accomplishments the district has made and the work trustees have done over the years.

“I feel I have worked very hard to do a good job as a member of the school board and will continue to do so if elected again,” he said.

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