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SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEE DISTRICT 3
How old are you and what do you do?
I am 50 years old and up until last year, I was a teacher in the Elgin Independent School District for 13 years where I taught Senior and AP English at the Elgin High School and held the department chair position for that department for eight years.
I am currently a training director for a federal credit union.
What sets you apart from the other candidates?
The main difference is that I have recently taught in the school district and have an inside perspective of how the school board initiatives and policies directly affect the teachers of our district. Having also had two children complete their entire education and graduate from Elgin ISD also allows for the perspective of how policies affect the students of our district as well.
If elected, what will be your main priority?
The biggest priority I see at the moment is teacher and staff retention. As a community, we are growing by leaps and bounds and building schools just as quickly to keep up with our growth. The problem is that our quality and experienced teachers and staff are leaving just as quickly. Most of our educators do not live in Elgin and have to commute in, that in and of itself deters people from working here. Lack of quality educators does a disservice to the students of Elgin because of the lack of continuity. The students in this district are great kids and they deserve nothing less than quality teachers and staff that can help them reach their potential.
What is the biggest issue facing Elgin/Elgin ISD at the moment?
Growth. The boom in Austin has finally migrated to the smaller towns on the outskirts and Elgin has been directly in its wake. And, while I commend all the efforts and work being put in to, not just accommodate, but also to welcome new people to this community. We are in essence building the plane while we’re flying it. This is especially true for the schools. The buildings are being renovated and built as quickly as new people move to the area. Finding a solution to grow and build, but also retain a quality of education for all students is paramount in this transitional phase.
Why are you running?
I believe that every student deserves a well rounded education and that we have the tools to create that education in Elgin ISD. From elementary to high school, these campuses employ some amazing people that work hard to make sure all students receive what they need, and more importantly give them the same tools to succeed after high school. All of that potential and initiative is housed in this district. We need leadership that will put education at the forefront of all district policies.
Why should people vote for you?
I am here for this community and I have the experience and knowledge that comes with understanding not just the surface level of education, but someone who has been in education. It comes down to perspective. All perspectives should be represented on a board and as a former educator who is also a parent, I bring a very unique perspective that hopefully begins to move the needle toward making sure that all student, teacher and staff voices are heard.
Why should voters trust you?
For 13 years this community has entrusted me with the education of their children. I’ve always worked hard to make sure that every student that came in my classroom received the best education I could offer them. As a school board trustee I plan to do nothing less.
