VISION FOR OAK RIDGE SCHOOLS
Whole Student Support
SAFE AND
INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS
ADVOCATE FOR TEACHERS
Academics are important and if a perfect world, it would be all we needed to focus on. But we have so many kids facing needs that create barriers to learning. We have to overcome those barriers so our kids can be able to focus on academics. We have to make sure we are addressing families facing food insecurity, utility shortages, and housing crisis situations in a way to meet needs with dignity and respect for all. This is why I strongly support our Family Resource Center and advocate for community partnerships - so we can enrich our kids physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing as well as academics.
Our schools need to be prepared to meet the diverse needs of a diverse student population. Students that will have different learning capabilities, different reading levels, different cultural or socioeconomic backgrounds, different types of parental involvement, and different needs. Learning happens in an environment where students feel safe and respected. I will always advocate for your children the way I will advocate for my own in ensuring they have a safe and healthy environment to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally within the school system.
The Oak Ridge School system is one where teachers want to be and where teachers want to stay. Boasting one of the highest starting salaries for teachers in the state is one way the school system is able to recruit top teaching talent. Add to that an environment of mutual respect and support, and teachers stay – which is why Oak Ridge teacher retention is so strong. As a member of the board of education, I will continue to advocate for teacher pay, teacher insurance, and the funding to make sure teachers have the tools and equipment they need to meet their student’s needs.
VOUCHERS & GUN SAFETY
In my conversations with voters, the two topics I get asked about the most are vouchers and arming teachers. I want to my stance on these issues very clear.
I believe public dollars belong in our public schools. I am unequivocally opposed to vouchers and will always vote and advocate for public schools, public teachers, and all the employees who work so hard to make Oak Ridge Schools some of the best in the entire state.
Firearms have no place in the classroom. I would never be ok with my own child or any child having an armed teacher. Our educators are there to help students learn and grow, not to be armed security officers as well. Student safety is my top priority and students are safer without guns in the classroom.