Candidate Profiles
Blair Jamieson and Mark Koehler have declared candidacy for the two open seats on the Board. The candidates were asked to respond to the following questions and their answers are below, as they were submitted to the District. The views and opinions expressed in these profiles are those of the candidates and may not necessarily reflect any official position of the Grafton School District. Candidates are listed in the order that they will appear on the ballot.
Blair Jamieson
  Why are you seeking election to the Grafton Board of Education?
I am seeking election to the Grafton Board of Education because I believe a strong school system is the foundation of a thriving community. As a parent and an active member of our community, I want to ensure that Grafton’s schools provide students with the best opportunities to succeed while being fiscally responsible to taxpayers. My goal is to support policies that promote academic excellence, transparency, and responsible resource management so that our schools continue to be a place where students, teachers, and families can flourish.
Explain how your personal and professional experiences will make you an effective board member.
As a financial planner and business owner, I have extensive experience analyzing budgets, making strategic decisions, and planning for long-term sustainability—skills that are directly applicable to managing a school district’s financial and operational priorities. Additionally, my role as a coach and mentor has reinforced the importance of leadership, teamwork, and fostering an environment where people can reach their full potential. My ability to assess complex situations, consider diverse perspectives, and work collaboratively will allow me to contribute effectively to the board’s decision-making process.
What are your personal philosophies that will help you best represent the Grafton electorate?
I believe in honesty, accountability, and a student-first approach to decision-making. Every choice made by the Board of Education should be in the best interest of the students while maintaining fiscal responsibility to the community. I also believe in listening to and engaging with parents, teachers, and residents to ensure their voices are heard and considered. Education is not one-size-fits-all, and I support policies that provide opportunities for students to excel in academics, the arts, athletics, and life. Above all, I am committed to ensuring that Grafton’s schools continue to be a source of pride for our community.
Personal information
Family: Married to Amanda with three children attending Woodview
Number of years residing in the district: 5
Education: BA from University of California Riverside
Profession: Business Owner, Principal at Transcend Advisor Group
Mark Koehler
 Why are you seeking election to the Grafton Board of Education?
I have a passion to give back and I want to make Grafton a better place to live and raise a family. I have been involved in a number of community organizations for the benefit of the youth. I want to continue to play a role in the development of the youth in our community. Our sons are alumni of the Grafton School District. I’m grateful for the experience our sons had in the Grafton School District and serving on the Grafton School Board is my way to give back.
Explain how your personal and professional experiences will make you an effective board member.
When I get involved, I’m fully committed. The Grafton School Board is an example of this. This will be my fourth term on the Grafton School Board. I’m a rational person who listens to people and respects their opinions. I’m a deliberate decision maker who evaluates information before making a decision. Through my involvement in community organizations and my work experience, I’ve witnessed successful leaders and can apply their qualities as a board member.
What are your personal philosophies that will help you best represent the Grafton electorate?
Successful leaders surround themselves with good people. We have a strong administrative team whose focus is doing what is best for the students. Likewise, the staff in the Grafton School District are great. They are dedicated and passionate about their role. Continuous improvement is necessary to remain a successful school district. Both the administration and staff are committed to continuous improvement. I’m honored to be a part of the Grafton School District.
Personal information
Family: Married to Nancy for 34 years with two adult sons, CJ and Nathan, who are alumni of the Grafton School District
Number of years residing in the district: 34
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and minor in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater
Profession: Retired from Northwestern Mutual as Assistant Director of Software Engineering in the Actuarial department
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