Campaign Platform
There are many important issues facing our school system, such as teacher pay, affordable housing, and safe, functional facilities. Many of these, however, depend on decisions made by other entities, such as the state legislature and county commission.
While I will work collaboratively with those groups, I believe there are three areas where the school board can take a more direct and meaningful role: respect, nurture, and educational focus.
Respect
Every student who enters the Transylvania County school system deserves to be treated with respect. That means no discrimination—and no favoritism.
Sometimes disrespect is obvious, such as providing better facilities for prisoners than students. Other times it is more subtle, such as low expectations or assuming a child cannot succeed. No student should be underestimated, and no student should ever be written off.
Teachers also deserve to be respected as professionals. Too often, they are underpaid, overworked, and undervalued. In some cases, teachers are driving bus routes in addition to their classroom responsibilities.
Respect means listening to teachers, valuing their experience, and giving them appropriate autonomy in their classrooms. It also means understanding why experienced teachers choose to leave—and doing what we can to support and retain them.
Nurture
Every child has different needs. Some need food; others need clothing, and some need housing. But all students need to know that someone cares about them—someone who listens, supports, and believes in them.
There is a simple truth, especially for younger students: “Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
Today, many students are facing mental health challenges. Anxiety, self-esteem, and a sense of direction are struggles for more students than ever before. Some are physically present in school, but not fully engaged.
We must continue strengthening mental health support within our schools while also working with families and community professionals. When students feel supported and connected, they are far more likely to succeed.
In this county, and across this country, many students are struggling with their mental health. Tragically, a few years ago we had three students take their own lives. Many more students struggle with anxiety, self-esteem and finding meaning in their lives. They are here, but not “present;” they are adrift. (Insert link to study about kids 16-24 doing nothing). We need to enhance our mental health services, both in our schools and in collaboration with other professionals.
Educational Focus
While every grade level matters, early education—particularly pre-K through third grade—is critical. These are the years when foundational skills in reading, writing, and math are developed.
Research—and common sense—tell us that students who build strong foundations early are far more likely to succeed later. Those who fall behind early often struggle to catch up.
Beyond third grade, we must ensure students are consistently
progressing at grade level while continuing to develop:
• Critical thinking
• Communication skills
• Creativity and curiosity
• Social and emotional awareness
• Resilience and determination
Our goal should be to graduate students who are not only prepared for college or the workforce, but also equipped to navigate the challenges of life with confidence and capability.