Grant Public Schools Board Member Recall 1 Choose 1
Biographical Information
Age
45
Occupation / Current Position
Lead Exhibit Designer/Project Manager
Education
BFA in Industrial Design, credits toward a BS in Web Development
Experience & Qualifications
I served for 6 years on the Grant AYSO Region 1472 board as Webmaster and Treasurer, and 3 years on the AYSO Area 8/A board as Webmaster. I've worked in for-profit and non-profit industries, and have experience in department management, non-profit budgeting, and long-term project schedules. I work well with a team to achieve long-term goals.
Campaign Website
http://www.mindyforgps.com
Campaign Facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/mindyconleyforGPS
Campaign Phone
231-303-1538
Campaign Email
mindyforgps@gmail.com
What are your priorities in balancing the budget? What should be cut first? What should be cut last?
There isn’t an easy 1-2-3 step guide to cutting a school budget. School district budgeting has to be done in the mindset of improving student success. Staffing costs are the biggest expense a district has, but that isn’t necessarily where the cuts can happen. Student to teacher ratios need to be maintained, but it could be helpful to temporarily shift some teachers or support staff into different positions that need more coverage for the year rather than adding or reducing staff positions. Buildings and buses also need to be maintained and we cannot let that slide. Budgeting isn’t just a “this year” process—it needs to be looked at in terms of what we need now and what we’ll need in the future too.
What should be done to improve student achievement in the school district?
We would first need to identify where student achievement is lacking. Depending on the identified focus areas, we can develop programs within the school or with community partnerships that satisfy those needs. Our district’s strategic plan is another tool that provides objectives, strategic actions, and specific methods of monitoring progress towards those goals. Regular monitoring of district functions in the mindset of meeting the strategic plan is key for continuing to improve student success. Students are also more successful when they have family support outside of school. Providing resources and options for parents and caregivers to learn ways to support their students can have a really big impact on student achievement.
What is your view on the way technology is affecting teaching and learning in the schools? Is it improving student learning?
Technology can be amazing in the opportunities it offers our students. Our district has made many technology upgrades over the last several years, and I think it has helped improve student learning. New technology has helped our teachers be more efficient in delivering content to students in the classroom and at home, and having devices for each of our students to use makes it easier for them to finish their work and turn it in on time. Technology can also help bridge some gaps in learning styles and abilities, and can provide powerful tools for some students with disabilities. There are always going to be bugs in the system to work out, but overall, I see technology as a good tool to have in our toolbox for student achievement.
Biographical Information
What are your priorities in balancing the budget? What should be cut first? What should be cut last?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What should be done to improve student achievement in the school district?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What is your view on the way technology is affecting teaching and learning in the schools? Is it improving student learning?
Candidate has not yet responded.