What Matters Most

When it comes to our schools, we all want the same thing: a place where every student can thrive, every teacher feels valued, and every family feels heard. I’m running for school board because I believe we can strengthen our schools by focusing on what matters—supporting our educators, making smart financial decisions, and ensuring every student has access to the full range of opportunities our district has to offer.

I also know that right now, many in our community—teachers, staff, parents, and students—are feeling unheard. There’s a growing sense of frustration that the school board isn’t truly listening. I’ve heard that concern, and I take it seriously. I am always available for a phone call, coffee or a walk.  If elected, I will continue showing up, listening with respect, asking questions the community is asking, and engaging in honest conversations—even when they’re difficult. Our schools work best when we work together.

Student Achievement as Our Foundation

Academic success is at the heart of everything we do. Our number one job is to ensure that every student leaves our schools prepared for a successful future—whether that means college, trade school, the workforce, or another path. That starts with giving each student what they need to succeed, not just in the classroom, but in life.

From the earliest grades, we must foster a love of learning—ensuring that elementary students build strong foundations in reading and math while feeling curious, confident, and supported. As students progress, we need to close achievement gaps by raising performance for all, not by settling for the middle. That means maintaining high expectations, rigorous instruction, and innovative teaching strategies that reflect the diverse strengths and needs of our learners.

We must also expand access to meaningful opportunities—like Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) and partnerships with District 916—to give high school students the breadth, depth, and flexibility to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and graduate ready to thrive.

Supporting the Whole Student

Helping students grow as people is just as important as helping them grow academically. That means creating learning environments that encourage focus, self-awareness, and healthy habits. Research shows that excessive cell phone use in school is linked to decreased academic performance, attention issues, and increased anxiety. I support reasonable limits on phone use during the school day to help students stay present, engaged, and ready to learn. At the same time, we must ensure that students have access to counselors, mental health supports, and trusted adults—because well-being and academic success go hand in hand. Most importantly, our schools should be places where students can express themselves, explore their identity, and develop confidence in who they are. When we support the whole child, we prepare them not just for graduation—but for life.

Supporting Our Teachers

Teachers are at the heart of our schools. They work hard every day to help our kids grow, learn, and succeed—and they deserve our full support. That means fair pay, opportunities for growth, and making sure they have the tools they need to do their jobs well. I want to make it easier for teachers to focus on teaching by cutting down on unnecessary red tape and making sure their voices are heard when decisions are made.

There’s something truly special about the teachers in our village. They don’t just teach—they coach, advise, volunteer, and cheer our kids on from the sidelines. They know our students by name, understand their challenges, and celebrate their successes like family. These educators go above and beyond every single day—not because they have to, but because they care deeply about our kids and our community.

We’re lucky to have them—and they deserve our full support, recognition, and gratitude. I believe we need to listen to our teachers, honor their expertise, and make sure they have the respect and resources they need to keep doing what they do best: shaping the next generation with care, skill, and heart.

Valuing Every Member of Our School Community

It takes more than teachers and administrators to run a great school. From bus drivers and custodians to food service workers, paraprofessionals, office staff, and more—these are the people who keep our schools running smoothly every single day. They know our kids by name, keep them safe, serve them meals, and support them in and out of the classroom.

These team members deserve to be respected, recognized, and fairly compensated for the essential work they do. I believe in lifting up every member of our school family—not just with words, but with actions that reflect their value. That includes fair pay, safe working conditions, and a seat at the table when decisions are being made that affect their roles. When we support all school staff, we create a stronger, more caring environment for our students.

Supporting Leadership Through Transition

This year has brought significant leadership changes to our district, including the departure of two principals and two key administrators. One of those roles was intended to guide a critical effort focused on deepening student thinking and strengthening instructional practices—a loss that leaves an important gap in our long-term academic vision. During this time of transition, I’ve worked to support our remaining administrative team and ensure that we stay focused on stability and forward momentum. As we begin the hiring process for two new principals, it’s essential that we find leaders who can collaborate closely with teachers, build trust with staff and families, and help lead a more thoughtful, student-centered approach to teaching and learning. These decisions will shape the direction of our schools for years to come, and I am committed to making intentional, impactful choices every step of the way.

Keeping School Finances Strong

One of the most important responsibilities of a school board is ensuring that our resources are used wisely to support students now—while planning for the future.  Managing our district’s finances isn’t just about balancing a budget—it’s about making smart, strategic, long-term choices that put students first. I believe in being transparent with taxpayers and making sure every dollar is spent wisely. Whether it’s updating classrooms, supporting staff, or investing in technology, I’ll work to make sure our resources are used where they can make the biggest difference.

In both my service on the school board and my professional role as a medical director, I’ve had to make tough decisions about how to allocate limited resources in ways that have real impact. I understand the need to balance immediate needs—such as staffing, classroom support, and student services—with long-term investments in things like curriculum development, infrastructure, and technology.

I believe in data-informed, values-driven budgeting. That means setting priorities based on what matters most to our community—academic success, student/staff support, safe and inclusive learning environments—while also planning for sustainability. We must be forward-thinking: anticipating shifts in enrollment, funding changes at the state level, and long-term maintenance needs.

In times of budget uncertainty, it’s especially important to:

• Be transparent about trade-offs and engage the community in the conversation.

• Look for innovative ways to stretch every dollar, including partnerships and alternative funding.

• Protect what matters most: student learning, staff support, and equity across our schools.

I will continue to advocate for budgets that reflect both responsible stewardship and a bold vision for what our district can achieve—now and into the future.

Keeping Activities and Athletics Accessible

School is about more than just academics. Sports, music, theater, clubs—these are the things that help kids find their passions and build confidence. Every student should have the chance to be involved, no matter their background or financial situation. All students should have access to the experiences that help shape well-rounded, engaged young people.

We live in St. Anthony because this is a community that truly invests in its kids. No matter their interests or talents—whether it’s sports, music, theater, or something else entirely—there’s a place for every student to get involved and shine. I’ve loved cheering on our teams, watching our incredible school plays (led by both students and teachers), and hearing the Patriots Marching Band light up the field. As a member of the SANBE Foundation, I’ve had the chance to help support these opportunities by fundraising for our Community Fund, which helps make sure every student has access to the programs and resources that enrich their school experience.

Food Security = Student Success

No child should go hungry at school. Over 30 million U.S. students rely on school meals, and research shows those who eat regular, nutritious meals perform better and attend more consistently.

We must:

• Maintain inclusive, stigma-free meal programs

• Respond proactively to federal policy changes

• Reduce barriers for families and students

• Monitor and respond to federal and state policy changes that affect school nutrition programs

• Secure local partnerships and alternative funding if needed

Food security is not a luxury—it’s a foundation for learning. 

Reliable Transportation Matters

Students who have access to reliable school transportation miss fewer days of school and are more likely to stay engaged in class. That’s why I continue to support investing in safe, efficient transportation systems that work for all families—because learning should start the moment a student leaves home.

I support:

• An ongoing investment in efficient, well-staffed transportation systems

• Ensuring all families have reliable access to transportation, for both school and for extracurricular activities

Moving Forward Together

These aren’t just talking points—they’re priorities I’m committed to working on, together with you. I believe in listening, learning, and leading with common sense and compassion. With your support, we can build a school community where every student feels inspired, included, and ready for the future.