Biographical Information
Campaign Phone
317-412-4605
Education Background
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Western Governors University; Bachelor's Degree of Science (Psychology), Indiana University
Occupation
Business Manager
1. What is the primary role of a school board member and how has your background prepared you for this?
The primary role of a school board member is governance and oversight. Setting policy, providing financial oversight, evaluating the Superintendent, and keeping students at the center of decisions. My 30 years in public education have given me a well- rounded perspective. I spent 26 years in Brown County Schools, serving in roles ranging from paraprofessional and ECA treasurer to payroll and corporation treasurer. I now serve as a school business manager. I understand both the educational and financial sides of running a school corporation, and I know the importance of asking questions, looking at the facts, and considering the impact decisions have on students, staff, and taxpayers.
2. What is your strategy for addressing chronic absenteeism and learning recovery?
Students have to be in school to learn, so chronic absenteeism needs to be taken seriously. The board should look at attendance data and ask why students are missing school. Part of improving attendance is making sure students feel connected to their school, supported by the adults around them, and engaged in what they're learning so they want to be there. School and home have to work together to identify barriers and help students get back in the classroom. Every student's situation is different, so there isn't one answer that will work for everyone. The board should also look at student achievement and learning gaps to make sure the strategies being used are working.
3. What is your approach to bullying, discipline policies and supportive interventions?
Every student deserves to feel safe at school, and bullying should always be taken seriously. Students and parents need to know that when they report a concern, someone will listen and follow up. Students also need clear expectations and appropriate consequences for their behavior. At the same time, schools need to understand why a student may be struggling and what support might help. The board's role is to make sure good policies are in place and being followed. The board should look at the data and listen to students, parents, and staff to make sure our schools are places where students feel safe and can focus on learning.
4. What more, if anything, should the district do to promote engaged citizenship among students?
Brown County Schools already provides some great opportunities for students to become engaged and find their voice. TEDx is a great example of a program that gives students the opportunity to research ideas, think critically, communicate effectively, and share their perspectives. I would like to see us continue supporting programs like this, along with opportunities for community service, student leadership, and learning how government works. Schools should help students learn how to think critically, listen respectfully to different points of view, and become informed and involved members of their community.
5. How should our schools balance funding between traditional college-preparatory academics, technology and engineering courses, and hands-on vocational trade?
Not every student has the same interests or the same plans after graduation, so I don't think one pathway should be funded at the expense of another. Schools should provide strong college-preparatory academics while also giving students opportunities in technology, engineering, and skilled trades. Funding decisions should be based on student interest, participation, outcomes, and the cost of providing quality programs. Our goal should be to give students different pathways to success and prepare them for whatever comes next: college, a career, the military, or the workforce.