My 3 Cs Platform

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I am very grateful for the hard work and dedication it has taken to make Northville Public Schools currently #1 in the state, and we should be proud of having a district that is both academically exceptional and fiscally responsible.  While it is worthwhile to celebrate our accomplishments, we must also recognize that external policies and legislation will continue to bring new challenges for our district.  In facing these new challenges, I want to be a championing voice for all parties within Northville Public Schools so that everyone is included in the decision making process. 

When it comes to giving voice to stakeholders in our schools, I have a proven track record.  As the Federal Legislative Chair for the Michigan PTA and as the Advocacy Chair for the Northville Council of PTAs,  I maintained regular communication with legislative leaders and held meetings with Michigan Members of Congress regarding legislation that impacts Northville Public Schools.   I discussed topics including seizure safe schools, per pupil spending, and school meal plans.  In addition, I worked with other departments that impact our schools, such as the Michigan State Police and Michigan Department of Education.

I also want to be a champion listener.  I realize our community is very passionate about our schools, and making sure that all parties are heard is a priority.  I know that good listening and clear communication is important for students, families, staff, and administration.  In my Michigan PTA role I facilitated webinars that provided tools to help interested parties better communicate with their school districts.   For example, one webinar gave information about the Open Meetings Act, helping citizens understand their rights and the law behind public meetings. 

Northville Public School’s legacy of excellence and strong traditions is what our community members expect and what draws new families to our district.  In order to make sure that Northville Public Schools maintains its current level of excellence, we must continue to explore ways to ensure that all Northville students benefit from our school system and that Northville students are prepared for their futures.  Our new administration gives us a great opportunity to achieve these goals. 

As a parent, I fully understand the desire to maintain top-notch schools.  I currently have two children that are now attending Northville High School.  My children have both benefited from the legacy of Northville Public Schools.  While my children are toward the end of their K-12 experience, my sister’s children are just beginning their journey.  My sister’s family moved to Michigan and chose a house specifically in the Northville School district.  Having my niece and nephew here really reminds me of the importance of continuing Northville Public Schools’ excellence.  

Finally, as an educator, I believe that all students should receive an excellent education. When I received my degree in elementary education, I believed in the mission of public schools – to educate every student who walks through the door. I still believe that today, so I am extremely excited about becoming a Northville School Board Trustee and the opportunities that come with the job.

 I became a special education teacher because I wanted to be adept at reaching all students in my classroom.  Each child is unique and it is important to meet students where they are at.  If our students and families are struggling we need to be as supportive and responsive as possible. 

One of the areas our families may need support is addressing their children’s mental health needs.  We are fortunate to live in a community that not only has mental health resources and services, but also a current board that wants to continually improve these offerings.  I support working with all parties, from mental health professionals to law enforcement so our students have the mental health support that they need.

Additionally, we need to be responsive to the fear students may feel about their physical safety and how it impacts their ability to learn.  I have advocated for many years at the state and federal level fighting to make sure our children are safe.   After the Oxford High School shooting, I led the Michigan PTA to join the Newtown Action Alliance’s Keeping Kid Safe Coalition with the goal to pass legislation making schools safer.  It was wonderful when Congress passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act in June of 2022, the first piece of this type of legislation in 30 years, addressing gun safety and mental health.  We need to make sure that our students feel seen, heard, and safe.