Biographical Information
As an aerospace engineer I worked for the USAF for 8 years and now work in the private industry. I have worked on many projects from F-15s to cutting edge hypersonic technology. I have led multimillion dollar projects and have the experience to get things done. I have spent the last four years on the board, 2 as President.
A school board member sets vision and priorities, creates policy, manages the superintendent and treasurer, and ensures resources are used wisely. Our job isn't to run classrooms but to support them-holding leadership accountable, listening to families, and building trust. At the end of the day, every decision must help students learn, thrive, and prepare for a strong future.
I'll continue what I've always done - be accountable and reachable, respond directly to parents' questions, and listen with respect. I believe in leading with heart, modeling the values we want for our kids, and making sure every parent knows their voice matters. Families deserve a school board member who is engaged, approachable, and committed to serving with integrity.
The two most important issues facing the school district are financial and academics. Financially we have to prepare for the eventual change in property taxes, make smart decisions to alleviate the tax burden on our community, and be open and clear about what the community's taxes are used for. Academically we have to implement our new strategic plan to continue to improve. We need to get back to basics of pencil and paper work and using technology with a specific purpose.
Too often, boards raise taxes or cut programs first. I believe in a smarter approach - holding the superintendent and treasurer accountable, protecting classrooms, and cutting waste before asking more from families. If needed, I'd support bringing in an outside auditor to provide fresh eyes and ensure dollars are being used wisely. Every decision must keep students first and earn the community's trust.
AI can be a powerful tool to enhance learning and personalize instruction. The board should set a clear vision, ensuring AI supports teachers rather than replaces them, protects student data, and improves outcomes. We can explore pilot programs, provide training, and involve the community so AI is used responsibly. Technology should be a tool and not the backbone of education, so every use will be with specific purposes in mind to enhance the academic experience.
As a father, husband, and son of a teacher, I know what students, families, and teachers need. As an Aerospace Engineer managing million-dollar projects, I bring expertise in STEM, budgets, and leadership. I've served 4 years on the board, 2 as president, and I'm committed to accountability, supporting teachers, keeping classrooms focused on learning, and giving every child in Xenia the education they deserve.
As an incumbent, we as a board work closely with the administrative team of the district. We liason with the Superintendent and Treasurer regularly but not to the point of micromanaging. Our roles are to : To define, & establish research based curriculum and ensure there is fidelity in teaching it. Be fiscally responsible as we are the stewards of the tax payer's monies; research, & approve district spending. Communicate with/to the public, both successes, and concerns.
In this district, communication with parents is handled both in person and via email. The President of the board speaks for this board. When a parent voices or emails a concern to an individual member, after listening/acknowledging a parent's concern, the member is to ensure that the President is notified. After investigation the President is tasked to send out the board response.
Student and staff attendance
A decline in student proficiency on standardized testing starting in Middle school
With a new curriculum, a need to see evidence that its being taught with fidelity across the district
Student nutritional health and decline of farms in this region
This has been an ongoing challenge for the past 8-10 years in this district. There have been successful efforts to bring services back in house to save money. The ability to save cash for this eventuality is crucial, so Columbus needs to not restrict this! Board members need to monitor what happens in Columbus. Example: the recent discussion in the statehouse ref property taxation and how if affects school districts.
AI needs to be introduced to age appropriate students, and with guard rails. There are very useful special education applications. AI is a part of our culture. Schools need to recognize this fact. School boards need to be ready to do the tough research to determine what applications will benefit, not harm, our students.
As an incumbent, facilitated increased communication with parents, & between board and staff; increased the number of Student Resource Officers; pushed to ID/codify what a successful graduate needs in Xenia; pushed to implement anti bullying education at all age levels; ratified the new curriculum; worked to pass a levy & construct a new Middle school; hired Treasurer. 21 years OT in the schools; school volunteer bringing 20+ years as small business owner to educate gifted student entrepreneurs.
A school board member is someone who, as part of a collective board, governs a local public school district. Their primary role is to set policy and establish a strategic vision for the district, not to manage day-to-day operations.
Some key responsibilities of a school board member are…
Setting Direction and Policy.
Fiscal Oversight
Hiring and Evaluating the Superintendent and Treasurer
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Ensuring Accountability
Being a school board member means that hearing and addressing parents' concerns is a top priority. My approach would be to focus on a few key principles to ensure that all voices are heard and that we work together to find the best solutions for our students.
Academic Achievement and Learning Gaps
The pandemic exacerbated existing learning gaps, and it's our responsibility to ensure every student is on a path to success. My focus would be on:
• Data-driven decision-making: We need to use data to identify where students are struggling and tailor interventions to their specific needs.
• Targeted support programs: This includes tutoring, after-school programs, and summer school to help students catch up.
Navigating the fiscal challenges of rising costs and diminishing revenues is one of the most critical responsibilities of a school board. In Ohio, these challenges are particularly acute due to a complex funding system and statewide policies that impact local districts. As a board member, my approach would be to address this issue with a combination of strategic planning, transparent communication, and proactive advocacy.
My vision for using artificial intelligence (AI) in our school district is to use it as a powerful tool to augment, not replace, human intelligence and connection. I believe AI can help us tackle some of our biggest challenges, from personalized learning to administrative burdens, while always prioritizing the ethical and responsible use of technology.
A Passion for Education and Public Service
Beyond my professional skills, I bring a personal commitment to the well-being and success of our students. As a parent of students in the district, a current school board member, public school teacher, and a long-time community resident, I understand the direct impact of our decisions. My dedication to public service is driven by the belief that a strong public school system is the foundation of a thriving community.
Biographical Information
I am a mom, a wife, and a local business owner. I believes in service, transparency, and quality public education for all children. Political messaging has no place in our public schools. We're there for the kids. It's time to focus on student achievement and supporting our wonderful teachers and staff!
School Board members set the policy and vision for the district. They are also responsible for ensuring tax payer dollars are spent responsibly, and being good stewards of school resources. School Board members support teachers, support professionals, staff, and the administration in providing all children a free and appropriate public education. School Board members must ensure that the diverse needs of our students and families are supported and offer creative solutions.
Caregiver concerns should be taken seriously. When a caregiver expresses a concern about their child, the first thing a board member should do is share the concern with the superintendent, so that they can consult with the caregiver and school personnel and investigate. Ideally, a meeting would be held to go over the facts and brainstorm solutions that make sense for the family and the child's success. The Board member should confirm with the superintendent that the concerns were addressed.
I think the most challenging issues Xenia is facing right now are misinformation and the movement to defund public education. There are no secret conspiracies to indoctrinate our kids. Xenia has great teachers, staff, and families, and every child deserves a quality public education regardless of income. Our children have different abilities and needs, and public schools need the resources and support to deliver those services. They don't need accusations and funds drawn away to private groups.
District leaders should be active advocates for appropriate school funding, and speak out against legislative initiatives to siphon it away. I don't understand public school board members who support privatization of education. Why be there? Public Schools should support opportunities to learn for ALL children. Board Members should stay informed on community data, and take care to consider the ability of the community to shoulder any requests for more funds. Sometimes cuts are a necessary evil.
AI is an emerging technology. There may be benefits, but there are definitely risks. I think vetting of any applications must be done to ensure privacy and accuracy. Students should be taught to verify any information from AI research tools, and be taught to synthesize and apply information without the AI doing it for them. I don't want innovative tools to make people dumb. Districts must be mindful of security, privacy, and the appropriateness of use.
I have previous experience as a board member, and am always willing to listen and adapt to other viewpoints. I am an attorney and have extensive experience and training in child advocacy. I understand the real struggles our community members experience. I volunteer in the community and with the schools. I can be seen as a guest reader, on visioning committees, as charity events, and at school board meetings taking notes and speaking up. I do the work because it is important, not for my ego.
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