Community Service: My husband and I both coach youth sports and volunteer our time at community events and activities. 

What is your motivation for running for office? My motivation for running for office stems from my personal experiences. Well-meaning people can volunteer their time in classrooms and sympathize with staff, this is wonderful and appreciated, however, nobody can know the challenges and gravity of the situations facing public education unless you’ve personally lived it. I am in multiple classrooms daily and even have my own classroom. Therefore, I have a strong (and realistic) understanding of the  day-to-day obstacles facing public education-attendance, homelessness, trauma, food insecurity and mental health. I want to make meaningful changes that will impact students, staff and the community.  I am also concerned that the school board will become politicized, this goes against my belief that school boards should be non-partisan. I can put my personal beliefs aside and work collaboratively with other board members without my political biases affecting my decisions. My only concern is the best interests of Baldwin children and community, not political agendas.

What is one major issue Baldwin City USD #348 is facing currently and how would you address it? I see two major issues facing USD 348 currently, that is the lack of CTE pathways and safety/security. The facilities need a serious update so that real-world learning and career exposure can happen. All students deserve to leave high school prepared for their college and career. CTE pathways can include culinary arts, agriculture, health sciences, arts, media and public services. Unfortunately the shop facility we are currently using was built in 1977 and lacks space that is desperately needed as 70% of BHS students are enrolled in at least one CTE class. Compared to other league schools we are the only one without a commercial grade kitchen for our culinary arts program, putting those students at a disadvantage. Simply put, we are lacking appropriate equipment, space and up to date technology, and our students deserve better. Safety and security at several facilities is a major concern also. When transitioning between classes at the junior and high school, the students must exit the building through an unprotected area, leaving them outside and unsecure. Other areas needing security upgrades are the locker rooms that are separate from teachers, intermediate center traffic congestion, parking at several facilities and ADA accessibility at the Junior High gymnasium. 

What is your vision for Baldwin City USD #348 5-10 years in the future? My vision for Baldwin City USD 348 is aligned with the current strategic plan the board has in place for 2022-2026. This plan includes current needs and strives for excellence in the areas of preparing students for success, supporting the needs of students and staff, engagement in school and school activities and facility improvements targeted for safety and optimal learning. When continuing the work that the current board has already started, I will take careful consideration of all staff and community input while striving to be as transparent as possible. My slogan “Prioritizing Education for Future Generations'' is a nod to just how deep my roots go here in Baldwin and the passion I have for generations to come. I love this town and school district, there is nowhere else I want to be or raise my family. I can assure you that I will always strive to do what’s best for students when making decisions as a board member. 

What personal characteristics and/or abilities do you have that qualify you for election to the School Board? As a current leader in my school I work collaboratively with colleagues to analyze student achievement and behavior data that is then used to form strategic plans. I feel that this day-to-day experience gives me a unique and needed perspective and would be an asset to the school board. My attitude in any situation has always been to address the issue and immediately start coming up with solutions. Board members must be able to collaboratively work together to build a strong foundation for our students. When reviewing policies and making decisions the school board members should approach each discussion with respect, actively listening to others opinions and ideas which I feel that I can do, even if I don’t personally agree with it. The ultimate job of the board member is to uphold the strategic plan, goals, vision and expectations for the school district no matter their personal beliefs on the matter because it should not be about politics, it should be about students, teachers and the community as a whole.