I don't think a local school district is considered a government
Actually they are old friend. They levy for funds, pass laws (policies), establish boundaries etc....
I would rather see my money go to a local business, with local employees who use local materials.
Amen, praise the Lord. Unfortunately Illinois law doesn't give any thought to this. We don't have many local general contractors left in town but I also see the outside firm remodeling the library and it makes me ill. As long as local companies submit reasonable bids for construction, photography, supplies, they should be given first priority. It sucks that they can't get those kind of breaks.
I don't believe anyone who has a spouse, adult child or relative currently teaching within the district should be allowed to be on the board. It screams conflict of interest.
And yet you still wouldn't see many people on the ballot. Our society complains but doesn't act. Those of us in the over the hill mob (not that you're that old WUS) can't do it any longer and it seems like the youngsters aren't interested.