2026 Board of Education Candidate Statements

Betsy Thorleifson

As a proud parent of an ICC student, a tax payer, and a small business owner, I am excited for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Education. I come from a long line of public school teachers, and believe a strong public school with inspired, empowered students is the foundation of a flourishing community.

Being an entrepreneur, I bring a useful set of skills to the school board. I’m excited by big ideas and visionary thinking, a nimble decision maker, and love to work in collaboration with a team of people to bring a vision to life. I have an appreciation for the inner workings of systems, and how to keep them efficient.

It would be a privilege to serve on the Board of Education and work with fellow board members to advocate on behalf of all students, and uphold the mission statement of the ICC School District.


Kelly Firmbach 

As a current member of the Board of Education, I’ve committed the last six years to serving the students, families, and staff of the Ichabod Crane School District. In that time, I’ve been fortunate to work with an extremely dedicated group of fellow board members/leaders and school administration.  We’ve remained diligently focused on thoughtful governance, productive collaboration with all ICC stakeholders, and ensuring that our decisions reflect the best interests of every student.

My focus hasn’t changed since my first term began six years ago.  I believe strongly in educating the “whole student” by supporting initiatives that address not only academic achievement, but also social-emotional well-being, mental health, and inclusive learning environments. I feel this is the only way to prepare students for success both inside and outside the classroom, no matter which career path they pursue.  Additionally, I believe it’s important to be a trusted liaison between staff and administration as we share the commitment to helping our students excel. As a proud Class of 1985 Ichabod Crane graduate with two ICC ’15 graduates of my own, these goals are not only necessary, but a source of pride for me.  

If reelected, I will continue to build on this work—strengthening partnerships across the district, advocating for students, and ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality, well-rounded education.


Christopher Scoville 

My service on the Ichabod Crane School Board over the past three years has been a productive and rewarding experience. I have seen–and been a part of–what a thoughtful, caring, and dedicated group of individuals can accomplish together. I am running again to continue contributing to the great work of Ichabod Crane and building our reputation as a district that serves all its students, no matter their path after Ichabod.

I came to the Board as a parent of two Ichabod Crane students and an active community member. I originally ran because I wanted a say in the workings of the district and wished to ensure all voices are heard. What I found on the Board is an open and thoughtful group that has the best interests of the school, its students, faculty, and broader community at heart.

I am seeking re-election to continue this work. I believe I offer both my professional experience as a labor, employment, and education law attorney, as well as the institutional knowledge and continuity gained during my time on the Board. I hope to build on our successes in a fiscally responsible way.