Occupation
Audiologist
Education
Doctor of Audiology
I grew up in New Philadelphia and my two kids attend New Philadelphia schools. I am an active PTO volunteer and youth soccer coach. Our school community is something I’m proud to be involved in. I’m running for school board so that I can support our amazing teachers and students, and work with our existing school board members to enhance the learning experience and school culture.
Due to state funding cuts and increasing property taxes, funding our public schools is becoming a bigger challenge every year. Our district works very hard to ensure our funding is used wisely. When faced with funding cuts, they do everything possible to minimize the impact on our students and teachers. I don’t think there is an easy solution to funding concerns, but I do know that supporting public schools is always the right answer. A strong, successful school system is critical to a thriving community.
First, I would thank the parent for approaching me with their concern. Next, per our school policy, I would ask that he/she sign a complaint which would initiate a thorough review process by a committee. The decision of the committee would be communicated to the parent.
I’m familiar with the current curriculum. In order to achieve academic success year after year, the Board of Education and the Superintendent must review the curriculum regularly to ensure it meets the needs of all students. To prepare our students for life after high school, we need to excel at teaching the state’s general curriculum, while also offering academic opportunities for specialized fields.
Our teachers and staff do the absolute best they can with the current buildings and learning environment. However, we can no longer afford renovations to the existing buildings. Renovations would also not address the current safety and accessibility issues. The state of Ohio has offered to pay $80 million dollars toward all new buildings for PreK-12. If we don’t pass Issue 19 in the upcoming election, we will lose the $80 million in state funding. A safe, modern school is necessary for the future success of our community.
Occupation
Accountant
Education
Bachelor of Science in Business (B.S.B), Accountancy; Masters of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
Campaign YouTube URL
I am running for school board because I think we have good schools that can be great schools. The New Philadelphia Schools are currently ranked in the middle of Tuscarawas County schools. I think we can have the top schools in the county. The school board should set aggressive but realistic goals and hold the administration accountable to achieving those goals, allowing all students to reach their academic potential. My experience as a father of ten and a professional accountant will bring a new perspective to the Board. I believe our district has excellent families, teachers, and administrators. Together, we can achieve greatness.
The state of school funding in Ohio is a mess. This is an urban/suburban vs. rural issue. The urban and suburban schools have a large property tax base where businesses bear a significant burden in supporting the schools. In rural districts, like ours, the costs of the schools are disproportionately placed on the backs of individuals. I would like to see the state provide additional funding to rural schools to help reduce the disparity in property tax basis. No matter how schools are funded, it is imperative the Board acts in a fiscally responsible manner. I believe my background as an accountant and financial analyst will provide a unique perspective on these matters.
I would encourage the parent to file a formal review request with the Principal of the school involved, per the existing Board policy. A committee would be formed to evaluate the concerns of the parent and make a recommendation to the Superintendent. The Superintendent would make the decision to keep or remove the book. The parent could appeal that decision to the Board. In evaluating this appeal, I would rely on my belief that all library books should be age appropriate and free from obscenity (“patently offensive” sexual content lacking serious value). If the book is age appropriate and free from obscenity, I would lean on the side of keeping the book in the library. The free flow of ideas is critical to the educational process.
I am moderately familiar with the school’s curriculum. The selection of the curriculum should be done by the Superintendent. The School Board’s job is to hire the Superintendent and set short and long term performance objectives for the school. The Board should hold the Superintendent accountable for those objectives. Curriculum that doesn’t result in achieving the District’s objectives will naturally need to be adjusted. The last thing we want is 5 independent Board members pushing for their personal preference on curriculum. We should align on objectives and make sure we have the personnel in place to execute the best strategy/curriculum to achieve those objectives.
All our buildings are old and need updating. I personally support the levy on the ballot in November and I encourage all voters to vote for the levy. If the levy does not pass this fall, we will need to do something different. I recommend having a town hall meeting with only “No” voters. Based on feedback from that meeting, we should develop a building plan that will satisfy some of their top concerns.
Occupation
Retired Coporate Opertions Advisor
Education
B.S. Technical Development Services
To get improved elementary schools for our kids, without breaking our property tax back for the next 80 years! I provided volumes of advice to NPS admin for 5 years now. All ignored. I need inside.
Local property taxes for most of school costs, but state and federal income taxes to fund important shortfalls for poverty-stricken districts. Abraham Lincoln came from a poor Kentucky district.
I would read the book, then decide. The book would have to be seriously out of line for school age students. Use of the word "damn" would not be sufficient, for certain example!
I substitute taught in every NP building at least once. NPS is good overall. I would like a curriculum that focuses on adult citizen skills competency instead of just a "liberal arts best for all" mindset.
ONLY 7-12 are desperately needing replacement. Most elementary schools are more than adequate with inexpensive upgrades that can be funded by ending "banding". Refer to my S.A.N.E. plan!
Occupation
Teacher
Education
B.S. United States Merchant Marine Academy and M.A. Education from Muskingum University
I chose to run for school board to bring a different perspective to the district. As a parent, teacher, and business owner, I would like to think I bring a fresh and unique take on the current issues facing our schools and our families. I have no true agenda, other than to make the school experience a worthwhile and positive one for all students, families, and teachers. I want students to enjoy being at school and to be proud of their diploma. I want parents to know their kids are getting a safe and purposeful education that will honestly prepare them for real life in the 21st century. Lastly, I want a community that is supportive of their schools and feels like they truly have a stake in every student that comes through New Philadelphia.
I honestly don't think there is an obvious answer to this question. I understand the burden property taxes put on the average person, and while I want new facilities for our children, I can also sympathize with the taxpayers who are tired of hikes. I do not believe an increased sales tax will provide the consistent cashflow necessary to sustain school districts, but the lottery has not provided sufficient public funding either. Quite frankly, we are in a lose-lose situation right now. I know that I will continue to vote for and fund levies and bond issues in order to take care of the kids because I believe it's worth it, but I know there are others who do not feel the same way.
I would first tell them that I would look into the concern. I would then work with the curriculum director to create a committee to read and review the book and determine whether or not it is appropriate for that grade level and class. As a licensed Social Studies teacher, I am a firm believer in teaching history and therefore, I am not a big fan of banning books, unless it is absolutely necessary.
As a teacher in a neighboring district, I would like to think I am more familiar with the state's curriculum than any other candidate. In addition to knowing and teaching the general education curriculum, I have several years of experience with the career tech standards in Ohio.
I want to give more opportunities for students to take classes in areas in which they are interested. Also, I would like to provide more practical classes pertaining to post-high school life, in order for kids to mature into successful adults.
As a graduate of New Philadelphia and a parent of three kids in the district, I have and will continue to support new facilities. I am blessed to teach in a building in excellent condition in Claymont School District, and I want all students in New Philadelphia to have the same opportunity. The most egregious aspect of our buildings is the lack of safety and that would be my number one infrastructure priority, as we must protect our students and staff. I don't want any kids, parents, teachers, or staff to have to worry about their safety each day.
