2026 Trustee Election Questionnaires: Kevin Patrick

Kevin Patrick

Age: 48

Length of residency in Anaconda: 14 Years

Born and raised where: Born in Havre, MT and raised in Cardwell, MT

Occupation: Director of Business Affairs for Butte School District

Family: Married with three kids. Two kids currently attending Anaconda High School and 1 in college

Education: Masters

Military service, if any: None

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

1. Anaconda School Board

2. Board member of Butte Urban Revitalization Agency

3. Board Chair for Montana Schools Property and Liability Insurance Plan

4. Served on the board of Montana School Business Officials for 5 years

5. Current member of Montana School Business Officials

6. Member of Montana School Board Association

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

The reason I am running for re-election is I believe I can add value to the board. I have 15 years of school finance and operations experience. I have now served on the board for 4 years and believe the board has accomplished a lot during that time. There is still a lot of work to be done and I would like to be part of it.

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

Communication and transparency is very important to the board. I believe the Superintendent, Administration and Teachers do a great job of communicating what news and activities are happening in their schools and the 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?

The board sets policies to ensure that every student receives access to a quality education. The district continues to implement personalized learning that meets the unique needs, skills, and attributes of each child.

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 a top priority for the board, administration and school staff. The district will continue to follow its current safety plan and look at options to make improvements where possible.

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?

We are fortunate to live is such a great place and supportive community. Last year the board and district increased starting teacher wages from $35,790 to $41,044 to address increasing costs. The district is currently working with state colleges to recruit high quality staff. The district is also implementing programs where we can grow our own teacher from current staff or current community members. The district also implements a mentoring program where veteran teachers work with new teacher to ensure they have the support they need to be successful in our district.