Incumbent Alice Klem is aiming for her second term against newcomers Laura Marsh and Rhonda Butterfield. Klem, 40, has been teaching for 17 years in the Fort Zumwalt School District. She is currently a high school science teacher at Fort Zumwalt West High School and a science instructor at St. Charles Community College. Marsh is the operations manager at the Garbacz Group in Chesterfield. Though she has never held a public office, Marsh has been involved lately with two groups in the district - the transition team designed to help open the new elementary school and a supporter for Proposition KIDS, a $3.5 million no-tax increase bond issue on the April ballot. Butterfield, 37, is a lifelong resident of Wright City and graduated from the district. She is employed by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service. Butterfield declined to comment further when reached last week. Closely examining the budget is a priority for both Klem and Marsh. The district has been deficit spending for several years and next year's figures appear to be more of the same. School officials expect to spend approximately $300,000 in reserves next year. Both Klem and Marsh hope there is room to increase salaries for teachers. "I think we are going in a positive direction," Klem said. "We are trying to retain and attract the best teachers. It's tough on a tight budget. You always want to provide the best package for teachers." "Hopefully the district can step up and give (teachers) their value," Marsh said. "I want to make sure it's about kids and teachers." Klem acknowledged her teaching experience gives her a unique perspective compared to other board members. She said the adjustment to being board member was minimal when elected a first time in 2006. Along with keeping a close eye on the budget, Klem wants to see the attendance rate improve in the district. "I hoped I learned to come up with the best decision we can in the best interest of the students," she said. "I want to make sure (my kids) are in the best schools we can offer. I want that for all the kids."ð Marsh wants to see the district implement more after-school and extracurricular programs. She also is concerned about whether teachers have the tools they need, such as books and teaching materials, provide a better education. "I want to make sure kids have the same opportunities as neighboring districts," Marsh said. The two winners in next week's election will each serve three-year terms. One incumbent stepping down is Don Maestas, who elected not to run again.