What motivated you to run?
I have always believed that one of the most important things that we can do for our children is to see that they have a quality education that will prepare them to succeed in life. With today's world climate, I think this is more important than ever. I have gained years of experience and training in education and I would like to continue to put what I have learned to use to provide a quality education for the children in the Raymond School District. I believe that I can still be an asset to the district.
What do you see as the expectations of a school board member?
I think people expect me to see that the district is managed well and to see that a good education is provided for their children in a safe and caring atmosphere. I also think they want someone who is available to them and will listen to them when they have questions or issues. They also expect that I would do something about their problems. I try very hard to be responsible and responsive and I will always listen to people and try to resolve their issues but as an individual board member I cannot take any actions or issue orders to staff, that takes three board members. What I can do is try to get answers for them or direct them to the person that can help them resolve the issue and then follow up to make sure they received the help that they needed.
What is your vision for education in the Raymond community?
My vision is to have the time, staff and resources to provide every student with their own educational plan so that every one of them will succeed and graduate and be prepared for what ever they choose to do after school. My vision also is to provide a warm, welcoming safe place to receive an education that encourages each student to be the best that they can be. I would also like to see students challenged to meet their full potential.
What are the current challenges facing education in Raymond and the school board?
The big challenge is having enough funding to meet all the state and federal requirements and at the same time to provide for the changing educational needs of our students. Another challenge is having the resources to meet all of the needs of all of our students so that they can succeed. In today's world, we have to meet the social needs of the students as well as their educational needs.
Do you feel the school board is being responsible and is fulfilling the role for Raymond education?
Yes, we try very hard to keep informed of the changes in educational instruction and to manage the district's resources and personnel carefully. We also work hard to respond to our parents and citizens when questions or issues arise and to keep them informed of what is happening in our district. We also try very hard to include and involve parents and community members in decisions and events in our schools. Our district is in a sound financial position and we are continuing to add new educational programs for our students. We also are also always working to meet the state and federal requirements and standards.