My "Why"
“I appreciate and respect anyone who runs for and earns a seat in any public office. It takes effort and heart - two things I have in abundance.” -Jess
I have so many reasons to run for re-election, yet I can easily narrow it down to three:
Click on the + signs below to read more about each topic.-
Every single person who walks through our schools’ doors should feel welcomed and loved – no matter what they look like, who they love or what they believe. Every student deserves the best education, best outcomes and best staff to guide their experiences at PLSAS.
I try my best to look at decisions with an equitable lens. How does this or that group feel about this? Does it serve the greater good? Is it in our kids’ best interests?
Our district no longer has an equity resolution to guide the work. It wasn’t my choice, and I voted against sunsetting it. But with all board decisions, we move on with the will of the board. That said, equity work is OUR work, and I continue to let it guide my decision-making. Our kids and staff deserve nothing less.
Our educators are some of the best in the business. They work hard. They are tireless. They love our kids.
It’s so obvious that we take care of them. Give them the professional development they need. Give them the resources. Let them teach. That’s all they want to do.
Test scores are no doubt important. They provide benchmarks and good data. But I do not believe moment-in-time tests tell the whole story of a student. Let’s build up our kids and teachers in more ways. Let’s stop comparing Student A in this district to Student B in another district. Everyone is unique with their own unique superpowers. There’s so much more to a kiddo than an MCA score.
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It’s no secret that our district has had to make incredibly difficult decisions in recent years with the budget we have. I assure you that no one wakes up in the morning hoping to cut more teachers, programs or resources.
That’s why we need a levy to pass. I’m a strong supporter of the levy this fall, and in fact, I made the motion to our board to increase the amount. It’s not because I want to frivolously spend your money. It’s because I believe in strong, public education. It’s because I believe a strong community stands on the foundation of amazing schools.
A passed levy this fall is certainly not a cure-all. And we might have to look at more reductions. But I trust our administration and staff to guide us and make recommendations. And we are not alone; districts all over the state are in some form of desperate need of funding. Let’s come together as a district and pass the levy!
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Our district and board need constant, continual leadership that I know I can provide. In a year of immense change, I’d like to be the steady leader that continues to show up and stand up for our kids and staff. That certainly doesn’t mean I’m not open to change. I always appreciate different perspectives. I may disagree with a position, but I’ll always respect it. I want to show my kids and others that compromise is welcome - and so is standing up for what you believe.
Let’s show love, compassion and fortitude this fall. Are you in?
Questions, comments, or want to show your support?
Whether you have a question, an idea, or just want to share what’s on your mind regarding our schools, I am always here to listen. Reach out anytime - I look forward to connecting!