Our kids deserve safe schools where they can focus on learning. However, the process of this decision, coupled with the fact that the district is still paying down debt on Rundlett, has resulted in clear public opposition to the current plan.

We have new information about this project: it currently has limited public support. As evidenced by the ballot initiatives, resulting public opposition could undermine the district as a whole. We must listen to the voters this season- if elected, I support revisiting the issue of site placement of the new middle school.

The middle school project is only one of many issues! Throughout my career, I have focused on using evidence-based research to advocate for policies that support children and families. The social determinants of health research shows that family economic stability is one of the most influential factors in a child's life.

Right now, too many families in our district are struggling. Over 100 children are receiving services related to homelessness, often driven by the high cost of housing. Teachers volunteer their time to provide food pantry deliveries to kids. Teaching assistants who help care for some of our most vulnerable students are in short supply, making classroom management more challenging for teachers. We can harness the power of evidence-based policy-making and invest where it matters. Low student-teacher ratios and students feeling a sense of belonging and that they matter are proven ways to support our students, no matter the challenges they face.

Public dollars for public schools.

Every legislative session sees another flurry of bills, many of which impact our schools without necessarily financing the changes. It has been 30 years since the first of the Claremont decisions ruled that the state is not sending sufficient aid per pupil. Last month, a group of state lawmakers asked the courts to overturn the adequacy decision, putting the limited funding we do receive at risk. As a board member, I understand the broader state context the board operates within and am committed to communicating with voters and legislators at the state level about this issue.

Public trust already had substantial room for improvement because of the district's history, which predates the current administration and board.

Organizational cultures do not change overnight; improving public trust takes time. Consistent, transparent communication with parents and the larger community, coupled with a commitment to listening to residents and seeking authentic community input, will foster greater confidence in large-scale projects.