Belonging for All

Schools should be places where each and every student should feel safe, supported, and valued. Kids should not be apprehensive to go to school for fear they will be bullied or even ignored for being different. The fact of the matter is that we are all different, and those differences should be celebrated, not feared or dismissed. School is a time for different groups to learn how to get along, have important conversations about difficult topics, and develop critical thinking skills to help navigate the world. I have and will continue to advocate for policies that allow for open dialogue, support of all students and staff within the district, and appreciation for the uniqueness inside all of us. 

Schools should also be accessible to all students, staff, and community members. We have, unfortunately, fallen below expectations in this area for a number of reasons largely due to financial constraints and competing priorities. The district is in the process of having a full ADA audit done to determine the extent of our accessibility problems. I am sure the results of this audit will be daunting, but it is important work to do and I will push to ensure we have a well rounded task force to review the findings and help determine priorities for moving forward with remediation. I will also work to ensure students with special needs, like all students, get the support and services they need to be successful in TSD.