SOCSD Hopeful Sam Blom: Aiming to Score Big Beyond the Soccer Field

Age: 74

Time in the Verde Valley: 19 years

Background: Before retiring from New Jersey’s largest electric and gas utility company, I managed two facilities as an office manager.

Q: Why are you qualified to serve on the board?

A: With experience as a coach, substitute teacher, and volunteer in the school district since 2010, I bring a unique perspective to the board. Over the past six years, I coached the varsity boys soccer team to a second-place finish in the state finals in 2022, marking our first such achievement in 20 years. Additionally, I led the middle school co-ed soccer team to a championship win in 2022 after coaching them for three years at SRRHS. My role as a substitute teacher at Big Park and West Sedona School, along with serving as a teacher’s aide in a second-grade classroom, has enriched my understanding of our educational landscape.

This past spring, I engaged with department leaders and recently promoted staff, including principals and the superintendent, to discuss their concerns and aspirations. My current role as president of the Verde Valley Senior Center board, past chair of the Sedona Relay for Life, and former member of the Arizona PBS Advisory Board demonstrate my commitment to community service.

In New Jersey, I served in the Army National Guard for six years and was on the board of education in Midland Park for six years. During this time, I helped establish a scholarship fundraiser that generated over $45,000 for graduating seniors and performed community musicals that involved local talent. Notably, I had the honor of awarding my two sons their high school diplomas. I also chaired my employer’s March of Dimes corporate committee, representing a workforce of 14,000 employees across 34 territories.

Q: What steps would you like to take to increase enrollment in SOCSD?

A: I propose a partnership with the Sedona Chamber of Commerce and the city government to actively promote our schools’ benefits. A locally sponsored marketing initiative in the past successfully increased enrollment, and similar strategies could yield positive results again.

Q: How can the district better serve the needs of its English language learners?

A: Being an immigrant who faced language challenges myself at age six, I understand these students’ needs. Increasing volunteer support is crucial. Utilizing social media and local newspapers for recruitment can effectively reach a broader audience. We should also address the needs of students from Cornville and Cottonwood, as many require individualized help to succeed in learning English.

Q: What additional public outreach does the board need to do regarding the former Big Park Community School?

A: More community meetings in the Village of Oak Creek are essential to dispel misinformation. I propose selling portions of the property that do not include the building to generate necessary funds while retaining the playground. Selling the building may impact the community center’s viability.

Q: How do you think the voters should vote with regard to the question of having the option to sell the former Big Park Community School and why?

A: Ultimately, it’s up to each voter to decide. However, the school district should consider exiting the landlord role as soon as feasible. The current market is favorable for a sale, particularly for portions of the land that are open.

School Board Election

There are four candidates competing for three seats on the Sedona-Oak Creek School District Governing Board: incumbent President Randy Hawley, candidate Sam Blom, and incumbents April Payne and David Price.