I believe in public education. We should help each child become a productive member of society and an outstanding citizen. The underlying reason for all of my votes is to do what is best for the students. To gain that perspective, I try to visit schools and talk to teachers, administrators, and parents often. My own children are attending or have attended our public schools and all have gained a very broad, diverse education that is helping them to be involved citizens and more compassionate people.
Children with Special Needs. Before I was elected to the Board, I noticed that the Board rarely, if ever, discussed how the policies that they were creating affected students with special needs. As a mom of two boys with autism, I felt very strongly that there needed to be a voice on the Board to speak out for students with disabilities. Since being elected to the Board, I feel that great progress has been made to expand opportunities for our special education students. Their needs are part of our strategic plan, and legislation and rules have been passed every year to help make their futures brighter. I am happy to have the opportunity to be a voice for them and for other diverse student populations, and I hope to be able to continue to speak up for them in the future.
Local Control. Sometimes it is better to do things on a state level, but often it is better to make decisions at the local level closer to the people. In this district, we have some of the largest schools in the state and some of the smallest, most isolated, schools in the state. It is often a challenge to make decisions at the state level that will create equity for students in all of those situations. Because of that, whenever possible, I like to include flexibility in the policies that we create so that local school boards, charter boards, administrators, and educators can consult with their parents and communities and do what they think is best for their students.
Educators. We have thousands of terrific educators in the state who are devoted to our students and their education. They deserve our respect and admiration for the incredible work that they do. Educators have supported our family through some of the most challenging times we have faced and have given us hope, particularly with our special needs children. One of the reasons I visit schools often is to listen to our educators. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns with me.
Children with Special Needs. Before I was elected to the Board, I noticed that the Board rarely, if ever, discussed how the policies that they were creating affected students with special needs. As a mom of two boys with autism, I felt very strongly that there needed to be a voice on the Board to speak out for students with disabilities. Since being elected to the Board, I feel that great progress has been made to expand opportunities for our special education students. Their needs are part of our strategic plan, and legislation and rules have been passed every year to help make their futures brighter. I am happy to have the opportunity to be a voice for them and for other diverse student populations, and I hope to be able to continue to speak up for them in the future.
Local Control. Sometimes it is better to do things on a state level, but often it is better to make decisions at the local level closer to the people. In this district, we have some of the largest schools in the state and some of the smallest, most isolated, schools in the state. It is often a challenge to make decisions at the state level that will create equity for students in all of those situations. Because of that, whenever possible, I like to include flexibility in the policies that we create so that local school boards, charter boards, administrators, and educators can consult with their parents and communities and do what they think is best for their students.
Educators. We have thousands of terrific educators in the state who are devoted to our students and their education. They deserve our respect and admiration for the incredible work that they do. Educators have supported our family through some of the most challenging times we have faced and have given us hope, particularly with our special needs children. One of the reasons I visit schools often is to listen to our educators. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns with me.
School Visits. I have visited the majority of the 73 schools in my district at least once. I hope to be able to visit all of them by the end of the year. It is always the highlight of my week. My thanks to all who welcome me into their classrooms.