I think in the interim we owe it to the public to go out and explain the position we're in.

And what that translates into is the public distrust of decisions or lack of respect.

That's the way some people are perceiving it, and I think it's unfortunate. I'm a very independent person, and I've been saying from day one that change is necessary.

I just do it a little differently, I think you build from our strengths.

For a long-term solution, building was the only answer.

Given that this was the only race, I thought the turnout was actually fairly good. And I was very happy for support across the whole district. I heard, again and again, that the needs of children are the issue.

Once people see me and listen to me and see how my decisions go then they'll get a better feeling that I am more independent and can go to both sides.

It was down to the wire, so it was almost a relief. I look forward to working with all the different board members.

I want people to view me as open-minded, respectful of people's opinions, approachable.