My campaign is centered around the importance of student voice, recognizing that students matter. Emphasizing stakeholder collaboration because we cannot achieve our goals alone; this includes parents and staff. Additionally, empowering literacy, as over 55% of our district's students perform at Level 1 ELA.

I worked for KCKPS as a high school business teacher from January 2018 to May 2024. Additionally, I have experience in higher education and worked as a Licensed Addiction Counselor for nearly 15 years. I founded and served as the Executive Director of Women Empowerment, Inc., a non-profit organization before relocating to the KC Metro in 2017.

Establish a vision and set goals that align with community and academic success. Hire a superintendent who reflects the district's needs, develop and adopt policies that support student success, and ensure progress and accountability while advocating for students.

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Empowering students to improve fundamental skills in reading, math, critical thinking and AI. Transparency in fiscal accountability targeting funds towards academic achievement, quality instruction, safe learning spaces, opportunities to apply learned skills and supporting staff engagement with parents and community as partners Board communication and interaction with all stakeholders

As a community advocate I have gained experience in identifying issues and concerns, seeking solutions that can be creatively implemented and resolved. I have a passion for education, good communication skills, strategic thinking and analytical skills, financial experience and am willing to learn. I believe in respect, integrity and engaging with others

The core responsibilities of school board members are crafting and maintaining policy, budgeting and selecting, working with the school superintendent and providing oversight. It is important to maintain a relationship with all stakeholders and communicate with them

If elected, my top priorities will be advancing educational equity, supporting and retaining excellent educators, and strengthening community trust. Every child in KCK deserves a high-quality, affirming education—regardless of background. As a parent with children currently in the district, I see both the potential in our schools and the challenges we need to address. I’ll advocate for fair resources, strong academics, and inclusive practices. I also believe our teachers and staff deserve meaningful support, fair compensation, and respect for their vital role. Finally, I’m committed to building trust by listening to families, increasing transparency, and ensuring our decisions reflect the voices and values of our community.

I’m running for school board because I care deeply about our kids, our educators, and our community. I’ve spent years working alongside school leaders, teachers, and families—listening to their stories, supporting their work, and helping them navigate real challenges with real solutions.

What also sets me apart is that I’m the only candidate—or incumbent—with children currently enrolled in our district. I bring the voice of parents who are actively experiencing our schools, and I understand the direct impact that board decisions have on students and families every single day.

I’m not afraid to ask tough questions, to listen with empathy, or to roll up my sleeves to get the work done. I bring experience in strategic planning, leadership development, and community engagement—but more than anything, I bring a deep, personal commitment to seeing our students thrive and making sure every decision we make reflects their best interests.

A school board member is responsible for setting clear, student-centered policies, overseeing the district budget with equity and accountability, and supporting the superintendent in implementing the boards vision for the district. Just as important is engaging the community—families, students, and staff—with transparency, consistency, and care. At its core, this role is about being a thoughtful steward of public trust, ensuring every decision made supports student success, uplifts educators, and reflects the values and voices of the community we serve.

1. Student achievement 2. Supporting Teaching and Learning 3. Community Engagement

1. Prior Experience -Current Vice President of local school board 2. Strong communication, teamwork and leadership skills 3. Well versed in instruction and curriculum practices 4. Passion for quality public education and thriving school district 5. Data decision making and collaboration skills 6. Deep community connections 7. Commitment to public service 8. Building positive relationships 9. Focus on Continuous Improvement 10. Advocate for educators and staff

A school board member should work with the community to develop a shared vision with the district and set measurable goals. One should establish and adopt policies that govern the district. An effective school board member would ensure the district budget supports the district vision and that funds are used effectively. They will complete the evaluation of the superintendent and progress monitor the district initiatives.

1. Ensuring USD 500 is in compliance with ALL Executive Orders and ALL Federal Regulations/Policies (Title IX & FERPA)

2. Ensuring students are not used as pawns in societal experiments (No DEI, No CRT, No SEL, No Pronouns, No Forced Second Languages, etc.)

3. Ensuring Parental Rights (Parental Bill of Rights, Full Disclosure of Classroom Curriculum, Parents Having Access to District-issued Electronic Programs/Devices Used by Students for Educational Purposes)

I am a 5th generation Wyandotte Countian and a product of USD 500 Schools (attended Lindbergh Elementary School, Coronado Middle School, and Washington High School).

My Grandmother Carmel “Carmen” Sanchez-Young attended the historic Clara Barton School of the Argentine District of KCK, my Father John “Mike” Young graduated from Rosedale High School, and I graduated from Washington High School.

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)/14-year Combat Veteran of the U.S. Air Force (Worked as a Military Police Trainer).

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, and currently pursuing Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.).

I truly believe it is extremely important that the needs of ALL students and ALL citizens of USD 500 are reflected/represented on the School Board and that the board should be a place where diversity of opinions/beliefs is welcomed and is encouraged.

We must also make sure that our primary purpose is to ensure that ALL students are receiving the best education possible and that ALL students are prepared for either college or vocational school.