The current superintendent, Kathy Burns, is seeking re-election, facing one challenger, Curtis Gaus. As both candidates are Republicans, and no Democrats or other candidates qualified for the race, their Republican primary in August will be open to all voters in the county, regardless of party affiliation.
News4Jax sent a questionnaire to each candidate asking about their background and their views on several issues. Scroll down to read the responses of those seeking your vote -- in their own words.
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Note: Responses are sorted alphabetically by party and are presented exactly as submitted, with no editing by News4Jax staff.
Kathy Burns
Occupation: Superintendent of Schools
Age: 64
Family: Daughter, Tara and many close Burns and Knight family members
Education: Masters Degree – Elementary Education
Educational Specialist Degree
Doctorate in Educational Leadership
Political experience: ‘Current Superintendent of Schools
Former School Board Member
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
Recruitment and Retention of Top-Quality Personnel:
The success of our district hinges on the quality of our educators and support staff. We must prioritize attracting and retaining the best talent by offering competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and site-based wellness programs. By investing in our employees, we ensure that our students receive the highest standard of education and support.
Managing the Impact of Rapid Community Growth while expanding academic and vocational learning opportunities:
Our district is experiencing significant growth, which presents both opportunities and challenges. Working together with our community partners, we will create a comprehensive master plan for capital projects to include the construction of new schools, and the renovation of existing facilities. Additionally, expanding our academic and vocational training programs will provide new academic and vocational training opportunities for our students. Creating a centralized vocational training facility, will help us meet the needs of our growing community and prepare our students for future success.
Increasing Mental Health and Behavioral Support:
Addressing the mental health and behavioral needs of our students is critical. We must expand the availability of on-site mental health counselors and behaviorists to support not only our students but also our teachers and the overall learning environment. By providing these essential services, we can create a more supportive and conducive atmosphere for learning.
By tackling these issues head-on, we can continue to provide a high-quality education and support the diverse needs of our students and community.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
Under my leadership, the Nassau County School District has consistently achieved an A-rating and ranks #4 in the state with a 91% graduation rate. Our collaborative efforts have resulted in significant academic gains, increased salaries for teachers and staff, and expanded vocational training opportunities, with 76% of our students enrolled in career and technical training programs. I established a land/growth committee to ensure our district is preparing for future growth. My proven track record, strong leadership, and clear vision for the future make me the best choice to lead the Nassau County School District forward. Together, we can sustain and enhance our educational environment, ensuring top-notch schools, successful students, and a stronger Nassau.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
I hope to be remembered as a servant leader who worked to ensure the success of every student, while also supporting teachers, staff, and our communities.
Campaign website: https://kathyburnsfornassauschools.com
Campaign social media: Facebook
Curtis Gaus
Occupation: Teacher
Age: 54
Family: I am married to Jennifer “Suzanne” Gaus. We have 5 adult children and 3 grandchildren.
Education: BS in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation - Northwest Missouri State University
MS Ed in Educational Leadership - University of North Florida
Ed.S. in Instructional Leadership - University of West Florida
Political experience: Elected to Nassau County School Board - District 3 in 2022
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
1. Financial Transparency, Tax increases, and Runaway Spending
2. Employee retention rate due to toxic work environment
3. Facilities are not being upgraded
As superintendent, I am committed to fiscal responsibility, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently to maximize student performance. My approach includes strategic budgeting to prioritize classroom resources while maintaining a lean administrative cost structure. By fostering positive employee relations, we can create a supportive and collaborative environment for teachers and staff, directly enhancing student outcomes. My goal is to balance the needs of our district with prudent spending, and ensuring every dollar invested benefits our students’ education and future. Together, we can build a thriving, high-performing school district that respects taxpayers and values educational excellence.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
I have over 27 years of educational experience with 19 of those years in school-based and district leadership at the middle and high school level. I understand what it takes to get students ready for college and careers. Much of my experience has been in building career and technical programs both at the district level and the school level. Using that experience, I understand the need to be fiscally responsible while still meeting the needs of all students.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
After my term in office, I want to be remembered for improving the working relationships between staff and supervisors, improving facilities district-wide, and being fiscally responsible while improving employee compensation.
Campaign website: www.gaus4superintendent2024.com