The school board develops school policies and adopts a budget for school buildings, staff, materials, and equipment. It evaluates the effectiveness of school policies and develops goals for educational improvement in alignment with the TN Board of Education. It keeps citizens informed about the schools and keeps the schools informed about the needs and wishes of the public. It works to pass laws advancing the cause of improving education, and to repeal or modify existing laws and defeat proposed laws impeding that cause. Members should understand relevant laws and regulations and vote and act impartially for the good of the school system.
My experience as a social worker, a taxpayer, and a mom of two kids in Hamilton County schools all contributed to my decision to run for school board.
As someone who never saw themselves as a candidate for elected office, I firmly believe the challenges we face are just too big to sit on the sidelines. It is essential to have a strong advocate for students and a voice for parents representing our community on the board. The highest purpose of anyone serving on the Hamilton County School Board is to work hard every day to ensure every child has access to a high-quality public education that allows them to reach their full potential.
First, we must ensure that students throughout Hamilton County receive the best possible education tailored to their individual needs and learning styles. That means providing students with the tools and resources they need to succeed, connecting with them on a personal level, and providing them with access to a wide range of educational opportunities.
Second, we must address the need for competitive pay for educators and other staff to ensure our schools and students thrive. During last year’s budgeting process, the school board was able to provide all HCS employees with a 5% raise, but we can and must do more to remain competitive and keep the best educators in Hamilton County.
I considered several factors in formulating a final facilities plan, including the need for extensive public feedback, planning for future growth, and ensuring we maximize our resources. We cannot lose sight of ongoing maintenance needs as well so we don’t find ourselves in the same position ten years from now. We must ensure every student in Hamilton County Schools is safe within the walls of their schools, and our school buildings meet the needs of everyone in the school community.
School buildings also serve as hubs that strengthen our communities and neighborhoods. When all is said and done, we must spend our resources wisely and ensure that the result is a school that students, teachers, and families can be proud of for decades.
I decided to run for District 11 School Board because I have insight into policies, procedures, and community concerns that will assist me in having a positive impact on decisions made by the board. I have found myself wanting to join in the discussions at board meetings because of the knowledge I have gained as a 34+ year employee (7.5 as the Executive Assistant to the Board) and volunteer. This knowledge will allow me to serve District 11 and be the voice of my constituents in making educational decisions that will impact their children. Some of the things I would focus on are classroom discipline, teacher retention, budget, and parental involvement.
There are many important issues that will have to be addressed such as student discipline, teacher retention, parental involvement, facilities, transportation, and budget. This list is in no particular order but all will need to be addressed at some point.
Some of the factors that should be taken into consideration when developing a final facilities management plan for HCS are the age and condition of each building, as well as the needs of each community. The administration is currently working with the MGT report. However, priorities may have to be updated/changed if unexpected issues arise. I would work with the administration to make the best decision for the students and communities.
