2025 Trustee Election Questionnaire: Keriann Orrino

Keriann Orrino

Age: 37

Length of residency in Anaconda: 32 years and 5 years residing in Havre, MT after high school 

Born and raised where: Butte, MT raised in Anaconda

Occupation: 

• Montana DNRC-Anaconda Unit Administrative Support

• Currently detailing Southwest Land Office Business Manager out of Missoula for the DNRC 

• Northern Rockies Team 3 EQTR/PTRC Finance Support & Comp/Claims 

• Cosmetologist 

Family: As a single mother of two teenage boys, I know the firsthand challenges families face in today’s world. I am the oldest out of 3 siblings and a proud Auntie of six beautiful nieces and nephews with two more on the way. My roots in family and community run deep. 

Education: 

• Graduate of Anaconda High School 2006

• Associate Degree in Applied Science (AAS) 2016

Military service, if any: None

Previous political offices held and/or memberships in community/professional organizations:

• Trustee for Anaconda School District for past 4 years. 

Question 1: Why are you running for school board, and what skills will you bring to the board?

Running for a school board is a significant step for my motivation to continue to do my diligence for our kids and community of Anaconda. By serving on a school board, I can assist on making decisions that influence the future. I am passionate about improving the quality of education for all students, ensuing that every child has access to a strong, equitable education. I want to be a voice for the students, parents and teachers. I work two jobs every day-including weekends. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s essential. That same commitment, grit and determination are exactly what I want to bring to the table as a school board member. I believe in doing the hard work, listening to those who often go unheard, and standing up for what’s right-especially when it comes to our children’s education and safety.

Question 2: How will you work to improve communication in the school district among the board, the administration, staff, students and the public?

As a school board member, I will work to improve communication across the district by fostering transparency, accessibility, accountability, and trust among the board, administration, staff, students, and the public. By making communication a priority, we can build trust, strengthen partnerships, and ensure all voices are heard in shaping the future of Anaconda School District. 

Question 3: The percentage of students with special needs continues to rise in our district. What can the board do to guarantee this population receives access to a quality education while still providing the same opportunities to its traditional and exceptional students?

As a school board member, its our responsibility to ensure that ALL students-including those with special needs-receive a high-quality education and equitable access to opportunities. To support the growing population of students with special needs I will encourage strong collaboration between special education staff, general educators, families to create individualized, effective learning plans. I will ensure that funding is allocated to hire and retain qualified special education teachers, aides and support staff. Providing professional development support will provide all educators with being equipped to meet all diverse learning needs. 

Question 4: School safety continues to be a concern for students, parents and staff. How will you work with your fellow board members as well as administration, educational staff, parents, students and other stakeholders to address school safety concerns?

School safety is TOP PRIORITY, and as a school board member, I will work collaboratively with fellow members, administrators, staff, parents, students, and community stakeholders to ensure that our schools are safe, supportive, and prepared environments for learning. I will work with the board and administrators to regularly review and strengthen safety policies, ensuring that they are proactive, comprehensive and based on current data. I will advocate for students, staff and parents to participate in regular forums or surveys to express their concerns about the safety in our schools. 

School safety requires ongoing attention, transparency and trust. As a board member, I will continue to work across all levels of our district and community to ensure that every student and staff feels safe, supported and ready to succeed. 

Question 5: In an era of uncertainty in public education and with an increasingly high cost of living in our area, how will you work with other board members, administrators and community stakeholders to recruit and retain high-quality educational staff for our schools?

High quality staff are the heart of student success. By addressing both financial and cultural needs, we can make our district a place where great educators want to come and stay.  In a time of rising costs and uncertainty, as a board member, I will work with district leaders and community partners to offer competitive pay, invest in teacher development and security. I'll also push for a positive, respectful work culture where staff feel appreciated, heard, and supported- because strong schools start with strong educators.

To read Charlie Farmer's questionnaire, go here, and to read Angela Galle's questionnaire, go here.