To all students, parents, families, and community members,

I am honored to be running for re-election to the St. Anthony–New Brighton ISD 282 School Board. As a current board member, a parent, foster parent, stepparent, and child/adolescent psychiatrist, I bring a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to this role—and a deep commitment to serving every student in our district.

A Deeply Personal Investment

Since moving to St. Anthony in 2017, my family and I have come to love and appreciate this community. With children in elementary through high school and beyond, I’m deeply invested in the excellence of our schools—just like you. As a foster and stepparent to teens, I know firsthand how critical it is that schools provide the support, structure, and encouragement every child needs to thrive. It is this personal experience that motivates my desire to continue to serve on the board and ensure that every student has access to opportunities that will set them up for a successful future.

A Unique Professional Perspective

As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I work daily with children facing significant mental health challenges. I understand how essential early intervention and emotional support are for student success. My experience in inpatient psychiatric care has shown me just how vital schools are in promoting social, emotional, and academic well-being. I believe in an education that nurtures the whole child—offering opportunities for physical activity, creative expression, and emotional growth.

Leadership Rooted in Service

In addition to my clinical work, I serve as a medical director, which has given me experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and resource management. On the board, I bring this same focus—balancing fiscal responsibility with smart investments in programs and people that drive outcomes for our students. I’ve advocated for funding that reflects our community’s values and worked with teams to prioritize initiatives that make a difference.

My commitment to service extends beyond the boardroom. I’ve volunteered on the Kicks Soccer Board and on the Boosters Soccer Board.  I am a founding member of the St. Anthony Village Soccer Club, supporting youth through athletics and teamwork. I believe extracurricular opportunities are essential to developing confident, well-rounded students.

What I Stand For

Throughout my time on the board, I’ve remained committed to:

• Transparency: Clear communication, honest dialogue, and regular updates to keep the community informed.

• Accountability: Responsible stewardship of resources to ensure student-centered decision-making.

• Engagement: Listening to students, families, staff, and community members—because your voice matters.

• Equity & Excellence: Advocating for inclusive policies that support academic achievement and opportunity for all.

Reflecting on My First Year

In my first year as an appointed member of the school board, I’ve taken every opportunity to learn—not just how our local board operates, but how effective school governance works across Minnesota and the country. I’ve spent time understanding the complexities of school finance, and I’m proud to have voted for a balanced, responsible budget that maintains a healthy reserve in preparation for potential federal funding changes. I also supported the adoption of cell phone restrictions at the high school level, a decision aimed at improving student focus and learning, while also relieving teachers of the burden of constant classroom phone management. This year has deepened my commitment to thoughtful, informed leadership—and I’m ready to continue that work on behalf of our students and community.

Looking Ahead

I’m not here to rubber-stamp decisions. I ask questions, listen to all perspectives, and push for thoughtful, informed action. My training as a psychiatrist helps me approach difficult conversations with empathy, patience, and clarity—qualities I bring to every board meeting.

Whether you’ve agreed with me on every issue or not, I hope you’ve seen a board member who shows up, does the work, and always puts students and community first.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Strong schools are built through strong partnerships. I will continue to be accessible and responsive to you—because collaboration is key to our district’s success. Together, we can keep building a school system that is rigorous, supportive, and ready to meet the needs of every student, no matter their background or circumstances.

I am proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and I would be grateful for your support as I seek to continue serving on the school board. Let’s keep working together to ensure that every student has the chance to reach their full potential in St. Anthony–New Brighton.

Thank you,
Prachi "PJ" Striker