I want to be a voice for parents and taxpayers, while ensuring high academic standards. In order to achieve this, we need to get back to the BASICS. Time spent in the classroom should be focused on academics and life skills that will prepare students for their future after high school, whether it be college, trade school, the military or entering the workforce.
WHAT I STAND FOR
Focus on the District’s Educational Philosophy
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Promote Robust Academic Standards - Bennington has been known for rigorous instruction in history, literature, math, the sciences, and civics - promoting the principles of the U.S. Constitution. Our country was founded on concepts of self-governance and liberty, resulting in revolutionary discoveries and inventions. Board members should ensure that the school continues to nurture children’s development into resilient, free-thinking citizens.
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Foster Parent-School Partnerships - I will work to strengthen parent-school partnerships to foster a sense of shared responsibility for every student’s education.
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Listen to teachers and ensure the school is providing a supportive environment for the success for ALL students - Our teachers educate and inspire the most valuable assets in our community: Our Children. We must foster an environment that retains quality teachers as well as promotes a productive learning environment. We can ensure this by offering a competitive compensation package, providing ongoing professional development as well as methods for school staff to provide feedback, and regularly acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
I will provide methods for staff to offer feedback on issues impacting the mission of the schools, which is “to educate students so they demonstrate high levels of academic performance and socially acceptable skills to become productive members of society.”
I will work with the administration and local community leaders to learn what barriers are preventing Bennington from attracting and retaining teacher talent. I will look at survey data, and if it is not available, work to ensure it is captured by the district. I will also review compensation structures and compare them to surrounding districts. I will have open dialogue with the community to share my findings and collaborate on solutions to this critical issue.
Increase Transparency & Accountability
Since schools are funded by you, the taxpayer, BPS is accountable to you via the board members you vote into office. I promise to bring improved transparency and accountability so that parents are not caught off guard concerning the curriculum being introduced to students as well as ensure full transparency regarding school debt by regularly updating the community on our financial standings via social media, community outreach and regular community town hall meetings.
Spend Wisely
I will ensure that every dollar is spent wisely by prioritizing essential programs, cutting unnecessary expenses, and maintaining strict oversight of the budget. Every dollar needs to be accounted for.
I will do this in part by developing a committee of school personnel, board members and community members who will evaluate school enrollment trends from K-12 to determine the most effective and efficient use of public funds to accommodate growth.
I will also engage the board by introducing policy enhancements to ensure optimal local control over issues such as spending and ensuring we are getting the best educational benefit for the cost.
Reduce Debt
I will work diligently to reduce debt by implementing cost-saving measures, when possible, seek alternative funding sources, and make the most fiscally responsible decisions that benefit ALL students and taxpayers. This will include working with the school district to strike a better balance between school spending needs and practical funding given the high debt of the district.
Listen to Parents and Our Whole Community
I have seen and heard firsthand frustration from parents and community members during school board and bond informational meetings when they have questions that go unanswered and ideas that appear to go unheard. I promise to hold frequent town halls and listening sessions (meaning I listens to YOU) with community members over important issues affecting our district.