PLATFORM
"Murray is a small school district that is uniquely situated to actively engage the Murray community and families. I'd like to ensure that students and families have the support that they need from the district to feel welcomed and informed so that they can support their students along their educational pathway. I acknowledge that everyone that touches a students life, the families, friends, educators, custodial staff, and coaches, is a value-add, each with a rich and diverse experience. We can do more to recognize that value and to utilize a student’s network to provide the greatest amount of support.."
I will focus on four things:
Give Students What They Need to Thrive
Thriving means that we support students holistically as well as academically. Connecting students and families to resources like health and wellness professionals, addressing basic needs like food security and housing to minimize disruption in their students’ education—these are all things that can build a strong foundation for student and family success.
Provide Educators with the Resources They Need to Foster Success
When it comes to resources, I will work closely with educators to determine what they need, and then I will work hard to advocate for that. Teachers, counselors, administrators, and paraeducators all care deeply for our students and for the work that they do. They are highly qualified professionals with lived experience who have specialized training in understanding what our kids need when it comes to academic, social, and emotional support.
Early Literacy & 3rd Grade Reading
Early Literacy is imperative in a child's future success. New policy stipulates that kids can be held back in 3rd grade if they are not on grade level. This is not something that any School District or school can change alone. It will take the entire community to step up for kids, set goals, and collaborate on behalf of the City, the District, the Chamber, and community partners. With my experience in leading cross-sector partnerships, I am well-positioned to support this work.
6th and 9th Grade Transitions
Our kids will be transitioning to junior high and high schools in sixth and ninth grade beginning Fall of 2027. This is the perfect opportunity to plan for transition policies and practices. I support giving kids early and frequent opportunities to explore different careers. This will increase student engagement, which leads to improved student outcomes, including attendance. Ensuring counselors, advocates, and navigation specialists have the resources and community connections needed will pave the way for high school and postsecondary success.