Vision for Oak Ridge Schools
Support School Growth
Our community is growing and with it, our student population. Elementary expansion is the top priority on the growth plan with Linden being the primary focus for building a new facility. Following that, the other elementary schools will need expanding to accommodate grades K-5. Jefferson and Robertsville would house the students in grades 6-8. This will allow for the growth plan to be as minimally disruptive as possible to current students and their families.​ My goal is to make sure every student has the best environment for learning that we can provide.
Safe and Inclusive Schools
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.​
Advocate for Teachers
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.