When I first ran for the School Board in 2017 and was asked why I wanted to serve, I shared the following:
Our students deserve an advocate who elevates conversations about issues that impact them. These issues range from excessive testing, inadequate funding of public schools, to district-specific issues like managing growth while still enriching the educational experience of all Worthington students. These are issues and opportunities that require strong, proactive leadership.
I am proud of my work in this role. I also acknowledge that most of what has been accomplished cannot be claimed solely as my own, as I am a single board member on a board of five. We moved FORWARD TOGETHER and some of my contributions have including:
MANAGING GROWTH
Championed the work of the 2018 and 2022 Bond & Levy Committees, whose recommendations for our building and operational needs were overwhelming supported by our community
Supported the transition to a K-5 elementary structure, construction of Perry Middle School, and additions at McCord, Worthingway, and Kilbourne Middle School, all of which will create much needed additional space in our overcrowded elementary schools
Supported renovations and replacements at Thomas Worthington High School and renovations at Worthington Kilbourne High School, creating facilities that will support our community of learns for decades to come.
Community & Culture
Advocated for and supported the implementation of free universal all-day kindergarten
Advocated for, supported, and fostered a community in which we not only recognize but celebrate our differences, ensure that resources are available to those in need, and create and maintain safe spaces
Advocated for and supported the centralization and coordination of support structures and mental health service
STUDENT-CENTERED LEARNING
Participated in and supported the district’s collaborative initiative with Battelle for Kids to create and implement the Portrait of a Learner - outlining our vision for student success, emphasizing skills and mindsets needed for a rapidly changing world
Supported the district’s special education audit and efforts to ensure appropriate staffing and service to our students
Advocated for assessment of testing requirements and reductions where possible
MENTAL HEALTH
Advocated for an increase in mental health resources, resulting in full-time counselors in all elementary schools and the hiring of additional mental health professionals
Advocated for mental health training for teachers and staff, with an emphasis on healthy conversations, utilization of resources, and destigmatizing mental health
I want to continue to serve because our students, teachers, and administration deserve leaders who are invested in public education and what is best for our students.
Service on a board of education is different from partisan representation. Ethically, board members are required to “render all decisions based on facts and independent judgement.” In other words, it is not about which group has the loudest voice . . . it is about what is in the best interest of all students.