I have owned and operated 3 small businesses which has taught me a lot about setting (and achieving) realistic goals and finding the most efficient way to utilize limited resources. Small business owners can’t just “raise taxes” to solve problems… they have to identify actual solutions by thinking outside the box while still working within their means.

I was also a semi-professional distance runner. My races were incredibly demanding — 30 to 60 mile footraces in the mountains. These journeys taught me how to plan for the worst while remaining positive and focused on a goal. I learned about staying the course even when things get tough, but also knowing when you need to stop and reevaluate where the current path will lead you.

I understand that the School District has an obligation to local students, parents, and taxpayers to provide exceptional educational services. My obligation is to them and not the state or federal government.

We need to look at all government budgets and cut waste. We need to review education expectations and challenge our students to achieve more. We need to review any D.E.I. policies to ensure that we are hiring staff based on MERIT and not things like race and sexual preference.

I plan to audit the District budget and sit in a new classroom every week to see with my own eyes what kind of an education our future leaders are receiving.

I have spent my adult life working for the students, parents, and citizens of Coos Bay and I bring those skills and lessons with me.

We take an Oath of Office which we attest to follow all federal and state education policies.

We need to watch the financial health of our district in these uncertain times. making sure all students get what they need to succeed.