A Parent’s Perspective on Helping Every Student Thrive
As the parent of two children—one who has needed special education services and one who has not—I have seen that every student has different strengths, challenges, and needs. I believe every child should have the opportunity and support to thrive to the best of their abilities.
My experience navigating special education services taught me how difficult it can be to find clear information and know where to turn. I have experienced the uncertainty, the fear that I might not be doing right by my child, and the challenge of learning how to work within the system. At times, the experience felt lonely and isolating. That is why I started a private local Facebook group where families could share knowledge, learn from one another, and help each other navigate the process.
These experiences have taught me the importance of accessible education systems, early support, and respectful collaboration among families, educators, specialists, and staff. Whether a student needs specialized services, additional support, greater challenge, or a different approach, progress should be meaningful and communicated clearly to families.
The Experience I Bring
I have spent more than two decades managing complex public programs, large budgets, compliance requirements, and partnerships. I know that good stewardship means asking hard questions, listening to the people doing the work, measuring results, and changing course when the evidence requires it.
If elected, I would focus on a few practical priorities:
- Strong academics: Keep student growth, achievement, and readiness at the center of district decisions.
- Safe and supportive schools: Support policies and resources that help students and staff learn and work in safe, healthy environments.
- Practical support for educators and staff: Before supporting a new initiative, I would ask how it affects workload, training, staffing, time, and work already underway. New ideas should have realistic implementation plans and give the people responsible for carrying them out the preparation and capacity needed to do the work well.
- Clear communication and trust: Make sure students, families, educators, staff, and community members feel informed and heard.
- Responsible use of resources: Plan carefully, prioritize limited funds, and connect spending to student and district needs.
- Modern facilities and technology: Support classrooms, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and campuses that are safe, reliable, and ready for the future.
- Accountability and follow-through: Turn the strategic plan into clear steps, measurable progress, and responsible decisions.