Four candidates are running for three seats on the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale school board in November’s election.

General information about the Nov. 3, 2026, election is online at twincities.com/news/politics/elections including information on candidates for races in Ramsey, Dakota and Washington counties.

To find out what’s on your ballot, where to vote and other election information, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s elections page at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting.

Age: 28

What would your top priorities be if elected?

Keep class sizes small, improve reading and math comprehension through collaboration with educators and admin, and ensuring the rights of children receiving special education services through individual education plans.

What qualifies you to hold this position?

I am a mother of three kids in the district, as well as being a 622 alum I am an early childhood educator and a strong believer in public education.

What do you think is the primary role of government?

To protect the citizens from threats foreign and domestic. To support and uplift the vulnerable and underprivileged, while providing oversight and regulation where necessary.

How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you?

The best way to gain understanding of other opinions is to truly listen and respond with compassion even when you don’t agree.

Website or contact information: Brittanylaboreforschoolboard.com

Age: 68

What would your top priorities be if elected?

Improve academics (literacy, math, scientific understanding, civics, life skills), create a safe environment for students both physically And emotionally, Grow the skills needed to support the hopes and dreams of every child.

What qualifies you to hold this position?

My B.S. Degree in Finance trained me on Budgets and Leveraging Monetary Assets for the highest returns and benefits (Student programming). I have been a Marriage Crisis Coach for the past 14 years, so I am well versed in relational skills and resolving conflict. My position on the ISD 622 Community Ed Advisory Council makes me aware of current budgetary issues and how they relate to student programming and services. I was born and raised and live in 622 so I have a deep love for my community and my passion for literacy and learning extends to our student’s experiences of learning.

What do you think is the primary role of government?

To serve the people in a support capacity. To provide infrastructure and services for the benefit of All. By benefiting the most needed, it uplifts and creates more safety for the whole community.

How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you?

I study and practice Barry Johnson’s Polarity Management, on how to identify and manage unsolvable (recurring) problems. I am also a member of Braver Angels, as developed by Dr. Bill Doherty at the UofM. Both involve listening first for the fears driving the opinions and solutions offered by my fellow concerned citizen. Find what works and is good about their perspective and reflect that back and verify I am understanding them first before offering my own perspective.

Website or contact information: NinaPotter622.com, or ninapotter622@gmail.com.