Portable Classroom Standards

• I will work hard to sponsor and pass a comprehensive trailer standardization policy.  This policy will address portable classroom safety, size, construction quality, environmental quality, and duration of use. 
• Funds should be dedicated to significantly reduce the number of existing portable classrooms.        
• Future land purchases and construction of new schools should accommodate future plans for expansion.
• I will ask for a review of the enrollment forecasting models in order to improve enrollment predictions.  This will improve school design and reduce the long term need for portable classrooms.   

 

Child and Teacher Safety
I emphatically support safety and security measures for our children, teachers and other staff.  It is fundamental to a positive learning environment. 

• Teachers need a discipline policy that works. 
• Better safety measures need to be employed for any remaining portable classrooms. 
• I will provide leadership to ensure these issues are addressed by the Board.

 

Budget Oversight
I am very concerned that current economic conditions will result in revenue reductions for the school district.  Cost control will be of paramount importance. 

• I will use my budget management experience to put in place cost accountability reporting that will be open for all to view. 
• Funds directly related to classroom learning will not be reduced.

 

Property Taxes
While I am in office I will never vote to raise your property taxes.  I will protect senior citizen exemptions.  

 

 

Graduation Rates
I will strengthen the vocational tracks for high school students. 

• There is great demand in businesses today for qualified vocational students.  I would like to see the school district become a role model for vocational education. 
• This renewed emphasis on vocational learning will provide excellent incentives for students who may not be in a position to attend college but want good paying jobs after graduation. 
• Effective business/education partnerships can be formed similar to role model Pensacola Technical High School in Pensacola, Florida.
• When these students get excited about what future jobs may await them upon graduation, graduation rates will increase.

 

21st Century Classrooms
I support the use of technology to enhance learning. 

• I will ensure that the school district is fully aware of technology best practices
• I will always ask for validation that technology makes a difference in student achievement. 

 

As Manager of Leadership and Professional Development at Southern Company, my staff implemented best practice technology to teach 32,000 employees across four states.  I will use this leadership experience to provide insight for the practical application of technology.  

 

Board Transparency
I pledge to support open Board governance.  I am pleased that board meetings are televised. 

• I will also pledge to hold regular and predicable town hall meetings so your voice can be heard.  This is your school district and I will represent you.
• I want to create an environment in Post 7 where there is honest and open dialog of the issues and where citizens trust their board representative. I will lead by seeking first to understand and then be understood!