Hello! I’m Jimmy McAndrew, and I am excited to introduce myself as a candidate for Coeur d’Alene School District #271 Trustee in Zone Two. As a proud native North Idahoan, husband to Julie, and father of two wonderful children attending schools in our district, I am deeply committed to ensuring that all students in Zone Two receive exceptional and challenging educational opportunities focusing on academic rigor, promoting good citizenship, and earning practical knowledge and skills.
Rooted in Idaho Values
Growing up in St. Maries, Idaho, I developed a strong sense of community and learned the importance of standing up for Idaho values. For me, this sentiment is not just a folksy, feel-good cliché about small-town life. My mother died when I was three, and my father was absent. That may sound like the beginning of a life of neglect, but it wasn’t for me. My grandmother, aunt and uncle, and numerous teachers, coaches, and friends’ dads along the way were always there for me, and I reflect on my upbringing with joy. That’s because the people around me supported me in all my endeavors.
I’m grateful that I grew up in a close community where people helped each other out purely because of their kindness and profound commitment to the welfare of the community in which they lived. Because of these North Idaho values, my story was one of boundless opportunity: I graduated with honors from high school, having lettered in three sports and served as Student Body President.
I moved to Coeur d’Alene in 1997 to attend NIC. Shortly thereafter, I met my wife Julie, and we have made Coeur d’Alene our home ever since. I went into the mortgage business and am now a Vice President and Real Estate Sales Manager for Mountain West Bank. My career is a testament to the fact that a solid high school education is an essential element in preparing people for success.
A Record of Community Service
I have been grateful for all the opportunities afforded me by the many mentors who have assisted and guided me, and it has been my priority to pass those benefits on to others. My wife and I are deeply committed to this community, and that commitment extends beyond my school board candidacy. My wife volunteers in the classrooms, and, over the years, I have been actively involved in numerous local organizations and initiatives that have a direct impact on education in Coeur d’Alene:
- Co-founder of The Coeur Group: We initiated projects like The Locker Project, which supports schools by partnering with the EXCEL Foundation, and organized debates to inform citizens about local politics, including school board matters.
- Support for Local Organizations: My involvement in the finance committees and boards of organizations like CDA Summer Theatre, Heart of the City Church, and Coeur d’Alene Sunrise Rotary reflects my dedication to strengthening our community.
Experience in Trustee Responsibilities
As a trustee, I understand the critical responsibilities that come with the role. I bring a wealth of experience in three major areas that trustees must handle:
- Setting and Managing Budgets: My financial background, including my experience as Vice President of Real Estate Sales at Mountain West Bank, equips me to make sound financial decisions that will benefit our schools and students.
- Hiring/Firing and Accountability: With my team management and leadership history, I understand the importance of holding educators and staff accountable while fostering a positive and productive environment.
- Policy Development and Implementation: My involvement in various community organizations, including serving as Chair of EXCEL Foundation and the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce, has provided me with invaluable experience in policy development and implementation.
A Vision for Our Children
My wife and I have been immensely fortunate to experience the support and guidance of the teachers and staff in our children’s schools. I am determined to ensure that all families have access to this level of support and education.
Ultimately, my goal is simple: to ensure that our children receive the kind of North Idaho education and upbringing I was fortunate to have. This means equipping them with a challenging curriculum, supporting those facing challenges, and fostering a sense of community within our schools. Our sense of community makes Idaho unique and why Idaho values should be continually promoted among our youth.
I support the supplemental levies, but that also means our elected school trustees have been entrusted to use those funds wisely to benefit the students and bring practical value to their education. It does not give our schools an excuse to be wasteful. The district should run a lean operation and emphasize quality over quantity. We can build a brighter future for our children and our community.
I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our students, and I hope you’ll join me on this important journey. Together, we can provide the exceptional education and opportunities that every child in Coeur d’Alene School District Zone Two deserves.
Thank you for considering me as your trustee candidate, and I look forward to your support in the upcoming election.