Description of office: School Directors are members of a board that is responsible for equipping, furnishing and maintaining the public schools. Principal duties include appointing and/or dismissing the superintendents, principals, and teachers; levying and assessing school taxes; purchasing land; locating new buildings; adopting textbooks and courses of study; fixing salaries of teachers and other appointees of the Board.Term: 2 years. Salary: none.
Education
BA in Criminal Justice
There are many challenges in the school district. A few of them include a lack of proper representation of the community with the current all-Democrat school board, misplaced spending priorities, a continued decline in academic performance, a board that supports male students in girls’ sports, bathrooms, and locker rooms, and a failure to ensure the security of students, teachers, and staff.
As a board member of several non-profit organizations over the years, I contributed to the financial management regarding membership payments, charitable distributions, sponsor recruitment, and the decision making around major purchases. As a full-time project manager, I am also very aware of budgeting and the need for sound, proactive expense management.
As a longtime resident and parent, it concerns me deeply to see our schools declining in academics, safety, and finances. We have a responsibility to create a safe environment where children can thrive and gain the tools necessary to become productive members of society. I know of many parents who moved into the school district because of its reputation, only to be frustrated by the lack of quality and ultimately deciding to move their children to private schools. This trend is unsustainable.
Age
45
Education
BS, Cornell University; PharmD, Temple University
Qualifications
Current board member in 4th year serving the district
There are many challenges that face public education right now, and a huge one is budget. We continue to evaluate how to best use taxpayer dollars to best serve all students while maintaining compliance with education laws. There are many unfunded special education mandates, and that cost is unfortunately passed to the local taxpayer. I continue to advocate at local, state, and federal levels for more funding for public schools, as well in changes to how we fund public education.
I came into my role as board member with an eagerness to learn and dedication to serving the community. I now have several years of experience of the budget process. Our district navigates a $130 million dollar budget, and I am always listening to stakeholders and keeping what serves our teachers and students best at the forefront of every decision.
I love my community and believe in the importance of access to a great public education. I have two children who are 6th graders and have been proud to be able to be involved in the school community while having a leadership role serving the people of the Wissahickon School District. I feel fortunate to be able to put the time and energy into this position.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to serving you for at least two more years.
