As an educator, military veteran, and parent, I bring a unique combination of skills and experience to school board service. With over 10 years of teaching experience in both community college and high school settings, I understand the educational system and the needs of students, teachers, and staff. In addition to my teaching experience, I have also been involved in a range of community organizations and initiatives, including serving on advisory boards and committees for the Oregon Department of Education, Lane ESD, and local districts. This experience has helped me develop a range of skills and connections that will be valuable in serving on the school board.

As an experienced educator, I understand the District’s obligations to comply with federal and state education policies, including IDEA, Title IX, and ESSA. The District must comply with Oregon laws governing education in the state without exception. As a school board member, I am committed to ensuring that the District complies with all applicable federal and state education policies, and that we provide a high-quality education to all students in a safe and supportive learning environment.

Although there are several, I feel school safety and understaffing of critical positions are high priority. I would advocate for increased funding to hire more counselors, mental health professionals, and support staff. Critical vacancies should be filled ahead of optional enrichment programs. Additionally, I would work to develop more partnerships with community organizations to provide additional support and resources, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

I have served two terms on the 4J school board. I have a track record of putting children first, supporting staff & parents, being a collaborative partner. I support evidence based reading instruction, & Career and Technical Education. I have served on many local non-profits, district committees and advocated for school funding and policies that support students and teachers. I co-directed Early Childhood CARES, serving local children with disabilities and their families. I bring my lifetime of professional experience in early childhood, K-12, special education and community leadership to the challenges facing our district. I will stand up for public schools, support our incoming superintendent, and navigate our current budget challenges.

School districts are obligated to follow state and federal education laws and regulations and there are sanctions and consequences for districts who do not comply fully. These can be plans of assistance, withholding, reducing or eliminating funds and sometimes legal action against a district. We are currently facing a situation where the federal government is enforcing a mandate to stop all DEI instruction and activities or face legal and fiscal consequences. This is in direct opposition to our state and school district’s values, policies and practices. Our district signed on to a law to stop the enforcement of this mandate. I will continue to stand up and protect our students and staff from this misrepresentation of equity.

The main issues facing 4J are complex and inter-related. Learning outcomes for students in 4J need to improve. They are negatively impacted by high absenteeism, lagging social emotional developmental skills and mental health struggles. We need: Vigilant tracking to identify struggling students early, then provide supports & interventions before the problem grows; engaging families to help. Safe & welcoming schools through peer supports, AVID cohorts, affinity groups, clubs, sports, health services, free nutritious meals, mental health professionals. Engaging curriculum & instruction including project based learning; Career Technical Education pathways; arts; sports; clubs and groups; instruction in social emotional skill development.