Campaign Phone
913-271-6306
Personal Biography
I grew up in Kansas, working for my mother's commercial cleaning company & eventually becoming a first-generation college graduate. My husband, USMC Veteran Sergeant Brandon Meyer, & I attended Kansas public schools, & we are raising our daughters in Kansas public schools because we believe in accessible education for all. With nearly two decades of dedicated, recent experience as an educator in Kansas public schools, I've always been passionate about making a difference in our community.
Education
JCCC: Education Practicums, Ottawa University: Bachelor's of Art in Elementary Education, Baker University: Master's of Science in School Leadership Pre-K-12
Community/Public Service
USD 232 Education Foundation Community Giving Circle Host: April 2022, Learning Forward Kansas Board Member: 2011—2013, Youth Friends Mentor: 2009—2010, Non-Profit Professional
I am the best candidate for the Kansas State Board of Education because I bring over 20 years of recent, firsthand experience in education in Kansas public schools. I have served proudly as a paraprofessional, teacher, school improvement specialist, associate high school principal, & principal. My career has been dedicated to advocating for students, particularly in Title I (economically disadvantaged) schools, where I have relentlessly worked to ensure every child has access to a quality education. My deep understanding of the educational system, combined with my commitment to equitable access, teacher support, and innovative practices, equips me with the skills and expertise necessary to effectively serve on the State Board of Education.
1) Equitable Access to Quality Education: I will address this by supporting literacy & math training programs, investing in early childhood education, & dismantling barriers that prevent equitable access.
2) Full Funding for Public Schools & Particularly for Special Education: I will advocate for the legislature to fully fund the 92% of excess costs for Special Education, as mandated by law. Ensuring that general education budgets are not depleted to cover these costs will benefit all students.
3) Attracting & Retaining Quality Teachers: I will listen to teachers & bring educators from reputable organizations onto KSBOE committees. By maintaining robust licensure standards, PD, & providing essential resources, we can support our teachers.
The most important factor for success in the classroom is having a competent, dedicated teacher who is well-supported with necessary resources, professional development, and manageable class sizes. A great teacher not only understands the subject matter deeply but also knows how to engage and inspire students. For teachers to succeed, they need ongoing professional development, access to up-to-date resources, and manageable class sizes to provide individualized attention. Ensuring fair compensation and a supportive work environment is also crucial. A positive school culture that emphasizes social-emotional learning further supports both teachers and students, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
The KSBOE plays a critical role in making funding recommendations to the legislature that support the law & address student needs. When Special Education is not fully funded, all students lose out on opportunities & smaller class sizes. Once elected, I will advocate for the legislature to follow through on these recommendations & ensure that the school funding system provides the necessary resources for all students. This includes pushing for full funding of Special Education, ensuring that general education budgets are not used to cover shortfalls, & advocating for a fair distribution of resources to address diverse learning needs across Kansas. By doing so, we can ensure that all Kansas students receive the quality education they deserve.
Campaign Phone
9137062396
Personal Biography
Mother/Grandmother, Eleven children and 19 grandchildren. All my children graduated from Tonganoxie high schools. Married 55 years to Edward O'Brien.
Education
Graduate of Kansas City Kansas Community College and University of Saint Mary with a BA in Social Studies/Secondary education.
Community/Public Service
4-H leader and supervising judge. Kansas State Representative 42nd District (2008-2016). Special Ed Teacher and Substitute Teacher. DRE at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
I have experience in education and in the legislature. I can work with the legislature to help improve the public education. I have taught in public schools as a teacher and substitute teacher. I also, was Director of Religious Education for our Church, Sacred Heart.
Focus on academic success, encourage, and support these things such as Vo-Tech opportunities, local control, teachers, and parental involvement. There is a need to get back to the basics of reading, writing, and math.
Supporting and helping teachers in their efforts in teaching.
The job of funding is done by the legislators. Funding has been increased. The legislators have have done 2 studies on special education and found the local boards and superintendents have broad freedom on how to spend special education funds.
