campaign phone number
8645615991
Most notably, my years in education have prepared and motivated me to run for school board. My experience is diverse, though 30+ years were spent teaching math. I also served as a Christion school administrator, 5 yrs and learning center owner, 10 yrs.
That's work experience, but simultaneously, I was a mom and, later, grandmother. In the "mom" job, I looked at education differently. I held myself accountable for my kids' accountability. I questioned if homework assignments were significant to learning or merely add-ons. In my grandmother position, I have been an enthusiastic supporter, motivator, athletic event spectator, book fair attendant and product purchaser and, necessarily, a math tutor.
Once an educator, always an educator. I was the kid who loved school. I miss being there. I miss being part of decisions coming to the forefront, nationally, statewide, as well as, locally. Because I stepped out of the college classroom in 1973 and served my last 5 years as a teacher recently, I feel I am uniquely qualified to draw comparisons between education then and now.
I made my decision to run for office after talking with three members of the board, as well as, parents and teacher friends who are still in the classroom. Recently, I visited schools and spoke with administrators.
The greatest challenge is how to handle technology, both hardware and software. Reducing screen time, particularly in the early grades must be mandatory. Returning to paper and pencil exercises and cursive writing is essential.
The applications and allowable uses of artificial intelligence (AI) will be a monumental decision for our older students. Because we are just entering this new technological generation, it will require much consideration.
We, in the Upstate of South Carolina, are home to a record number of new residents. Among these new neighbors are veteran teachers who bring years of experience. A diligent study of our certification practices and requirements, where they pertain to transfer reciprocity, is in order. Requiring longtime educators to jump through unnecessary hoops dissuades them from seeking employment. We should be welcoming them.
campaign phone number
8647048926
I am the current Greenville County School Board Trustee for District 18. I have extensive experience as a high school science teacher, as an FBI agent and supervisor and as a registered nurse. I am a good communicator, collaborator and listen to parents, teachers and my community. I am focused on the students and getting back to basics, limiting screen time and the safety and security of our students.
I love my community and I am a fierce advocate for my students. As the incumbent school board member for district 18, I want to continue serving my community and students. I communicate frequently with parents and I address issues and concerns quickly and effectively. I enjoy my position and have been very grateful to have served my community in this role. I understand the work and passion that goes into this position and I want to continue and work hard for Greenville County Schools.
Currently, I am focused on the use of AI in our schools. We must be judicious in the use of this technology. I am also concerned about bullying and maintaining good discipline levels in the classroom. I am addressing cursive writing skills in the elementary grades and I would like to see state wide testing for cursive writing. I am an advocate for less screen time. I am also an advocate for the development of independent thinking for our students and to encourage them to always be good citizens.
As a board member, I have pushed for increased wages for Greenville County teachers and these budgets have been approved. I would advocate for smaller class sizes to help teachers focus on teaching the fundamentals and skills necessary to succeed in life. As a board member, I have advocated for the best possible teachers and administrators for our schools.
