Campaign Platform: Common Sense Leadership for Our Schools

As an independent candidate for the school board, my platform is built on common sense, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to providing an equitable, high-quality education for every student in our community. I believe in fostering schools that prioritize academic success, well-being, and opportunities for all while keeping politics out of classroom policies. Here's what I stand for:

1. Keep Politics Out of the Classroom

Education should focus on fostering knowledge, critical thinking, and creativity—not political agendas. I will work to ensure that policies prioritize the best interests of students and educators over partisan debates.

2. Success

Since the pandemic, test scores have declined nationwide, and Roanoke is no exception. We must elevate support for all students—not just those at risk of failing or those in the top 10%. Every student deserves the tools and opportunities to thrive.

3. Safety

Research shows that students who feel safe learn better and achieve more. Safety is about more than just responding to crises or having resource officers on campus. True safety starts with meeting students’ needs—ensuring they feel supported, valued, and mentally healthy.

4. Space to Learn

Every student and staff member deserves a welcoming and well-equipped learning environment. That starts with listening to our teachers and staff, understanding the unique needs of each campus, and ensuring facilities are updated equitably.

5. Salaries

Year after year, I’ve heard at school board meetings that our teachers’ salaries lag behind the national average. But aiming for the national average isn’t enough—we need to surpass it. Higher salaries not only help teachers keep up with the rising cost of living, but they also allow us to recruit and retain the best educators. Research consistently shows that teacher quality is one of the strongest predictors of student success.

Public schools are the foundation of our community and democracy. I will work tirelessly to support and strengthen our public education system, ensuring it remains a place where every child can thrive.

Together, we can create a school system that reflects our shared values: respect, opportunity, collaboration, and excellence. Let’s build a future where all students succeed.