My Priorities

During my tenure on the board, we have implemented several policies to make our schools safer, such as harsher consequences for fighting, and no cell phones during the school day.

We have created single secure entrances in all of our schools. We have added an armed officer or security professional at every school.

We have wonderful working relationships with our local law enforcement agencies. My participation in trainings has shown me the dedication of our team to ensure that "we are the best prepared for situations that we pray, we'll never have to incur."

Mental health services in our schools are crucial for fostering a supportive and productive learning environment. It helps students manage stress, build resilience, and improve their overall well-being.

Since I have been on the board, we have increased mental health professionals in our schools, and we have added resources for staff and students. This year we have partnered with Atrium to provide our students with a more convenient way to access mental health professionals.

Teacher retention is crucial for maintaining a stable and effective learning environment in schools. When teachers feel supported, they contribute to a stronger school community and enhance overall educational quality. Investing in teacher retention leads to better outcomes for both educators and students.

I have supported incentives and budgets for recruiting, retaining, and supporting teachers. I also attend educator events to show my support and to celebrate our teachers and staff.

When I visit classes, I'm constantly amazed by our wonderful teachers and the ways that they are overcoming the growing challenges in their classrooms.

I have supported initiatives of our schools to increase the academic success for all of our students. Some of these include Multi-Tiered System of Supports, free summer enrichment programs, free meals for all students, and better data collection & training.

Our district still has a lot of work to do in this area, but our board, superintendent and administration are committed to raising student achievement.

Applied technology courses are essential for high school students as they equip them with practical skills that are highly relevant in today's job market. These courses encourage creativity and innovation, allowing students to explore various fields such as computer science, health sciences, digital media, and the all important trades, such as construction, plumbing, welding, etc.

Schools play a crucial role in shaping our communities. Effective communication between schools, parents, and our community fosters a supportive environment, that enhances student development and learning. By working together, we can address challenges, celebrate achievements, and ensure that every child has the resources needed to succeed. Our board is committed to finding more effective ways to communicate with our families and stakeholders.

I believe in the importance supporting arts programs in our schools. Arts programs enrich the lives of students and foster creativity and innovation. Our district is blessed to have so many talented students and staff who nurture their talents. We need to make certain that our community has the opportunity to attend these performances.