Why I’m
running.

I believe the district does many things well. One area that stands out to me is Career and Technical Education (CTE). ISD 728 has created opportunities for students to gain meaningful, real-world experiences that can help prepare them for their next steps. I appreciate that this is an area the district continues to strengthen to meet the changing needs and interests of our students.

One area I believe the district, like many school districts, could continue to improve is supporting and training all employees. Funding can certainly be a challenge, but investing in our staff is also an investment in our students. As mental health concerns have increased, schools are also seeing more challenging behaviors that can impact students and staff. We need to ensure that every employee has access to the training, resources, and support they need to respond effectively and safely. Providing staff with the right tools and support can help create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.

I believe student achievement should be viewed broadly. Not every student is going to excel in traditional academics, and that does not mean they are not successful learners. Some students may thrive in the arts, culinary programs, Career and Technical Education, athletics, or other areas.

Over the next four years, our priority should be providing well-rounded opportunities that help every student discover their strengths, develop skills, and prepare for their next step after graduation. We should think outside the box and be innovative in how we educate and inspire our learners.

Measuring progress should include more than traditional test scores. We should look at graduation rates, academic growth, participation in CTE and other programs, post-secondary enrollment or employment, and student engagement. We should also listen to students, families, and staff to understand whether students feel supported and connected to their schools.

Success means helping every student find a path where they can thrive.

I believe the responsibility of a school board member is to work together as a governing body to make thoughtful, sound decisions in the best interests of our students and district. We will not always agree, and I believe each board member has both the right and the responsibility to thoughtfully consider the information and vote according to what they think is best. When I disagree with a decision, I would respectfully share my perspective and explain why I voted the way I did. However, once the board has made its decision, we have a responsibility to support that decision and move forward together.

Our responsibilities extend beyond our individual opinions. Being a good board member means knowing when to advocate for your position, when to listen to others, and when to come together behind the decision of the full board.