Our classrooms are NO place for teaching Critical Race Theory or any other woke indoctrination, inappropriate language, pictures and teachings of such content to the most vulnerable - our children. In 2021, I adamantly supported the removal of professional development material from one of our Elementary Schools and asked for the district Ieadership to initiate a book/curriculum review process for librarians, administrators and parents to ensure the content of literature available to children was appropriate for age and grade level. It is a parent's decision when and how their children are exposed to such information.

In 2023, The School District of Oconee partnered with multiple law enforcement and emergency service agencies to host our own active shooter drill and re-unification process complete with a real-life simulation of an active shooter in our school. I participated as a volunteer “student” during this training and witnessed first hand the efforts from multiple agencies in protecting the lives of our children and teachers. I will continue to support these efforts by our law enforcement agencies and encourage more drills to ensure our schools are a safe place to learn and work.

For the safety of all students during the school day, I will never yield to the practice of individuals using a bathroom, locker room, etc.. not designated for their born biological gender.

In an age where tablet and phone screens dominate our daily lives, it's time to rethink the role of technology in our children's education. In 2024, I implemented a new goal for the SDOC to reduce screen time in classrooms. Studies have shown that excessive screen time can lead to a decrease in cognitive development, attention span & social skills, as well as an increased risk of anxiety and depression. On the other hand, outdoor/laboratory activities and hands-on learning experiences foster creativity, improve physical & mental health and enhance problem-solving abilities.

Benjamin Franklin was asked what sort of government America would have and he responded, “A republic, if you can keep it.” Studies have shown that scores in U.S. History and Civics in the 8th Grade are at the lowest point since 1994. I am committed to getting foundational texts and documents back in the classroom so our students can become citizens who understand the threat to our values and freedoms that we as Americans have.

A report by The NY Times found that the pandemic set students back in math and science by two decades while widening the achievement gap in reading as well. I have supported the district's transition to a Reading curriculum that is grounded in addressing how our students learn to read rather than a liberal curriculum pushed by profit and out dated theories.

The Special Needs student population is another critical issue that I believe we must focus on in SDOC. Understanding the bureaucratic systems in place for these students and teachers, I will continue to advocate for less red tape and oversight to ensure this important group is being served in the best ways possible.

Our school buses should be equipped with the latest technology so that our drivers have the best tools for their job. Challenges identified by our Transportation Department include the need to fund additional transportation staff, to fully implement an updated routing program as well as to fund operational bus camera systems.