When I ran for the School Board in 2017 and was asked why I wanted to serve, I shared the following:
Our students deserve an advocate who elevates conversations about issues that impact them. These issues range from excessive testing, inadequate funding of public schools, to district-specific issues like managing growth while still enriching the educational experience of all Worthington students. These are issues and opportunities that require strong, proactive leadership.
I am proud of my work in this role. I also acknowledge that most of what has been accomplished cannot be claimed solely as my own, as I am a single board member on a board of five. We moved FORWARD TOGETHER and some of my contributions have been:
MANAGING GROWTH
Supported the 2018 Bond & Levy Committee, whose work resulted in overwhelming community support for our building and operational needs
Supported the transition to a K-5 elementary structure, construction of Perry Middle School, and additions at McCord, Worthingway, and Kilbourne Middle School, all of which will create much needed additional space in our overcrowded elementary schools
INCLUSION & EQUITY
Advocated for, and supported the hiring of, additional minority teachers
Advocated for, and supported, the broadening of district policy regarding nondiscrimination to include gender identity
Advocated for, and supported the hiring of, a Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Drafted and passed the resolution affirming the District’s commitment to be an antiracist school district and the District’s commitment to social justice
Advocated for an evidence-based approach to student safety, including voting against adding SROs to the high schools in 2018 and voting for the removal of SROs in 2020
Currently leading the drafting of the district’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion In Education Policy
STUDENT-CENTERED LEARNING
Elevated issue related to delayed diagnosis of dyslexia and supported parents advocating for change, resulting in a dyslexia screener and progress monitoring tools
Hosted community discussion regarding various issues impacting students, including mental health, suicide, racism, and transgender identity and experience
Advocated for assessment of testing requirements and reductions where possible
Advocated for additional professional development for our teachers and supported the negotiation of this into the latest contract with the teacher’s union
MENTAL HEALTH
Advocated for an increase in mental health resources, resulting in full-time counselors in all elementary schools and the hiring of additional mental health professionals
Advocated for the district’s evaluation of and investment in restorative justice
Hosted conversation circles with recent graduates regarding mental health needs and opportunities for improvement
I want to continue to serve because our students, teachers, and administration deserve leaders who are invested in public education and what is best for our students.
Service on a board of education is different from partisan representation. Ethically, board members are required to “render all decisions based on facts and independent judgement.” In other words, it is not about which group has the loudest voice . . . it is about what is in the best interest of all students.