PLATFORM AND BELIEFS

What our students learn in the classroom today should be training them for the jobs of tomorrow. When students graduate from Lake High School they should be equipped with the skills needed to succeed in college, the military, or the workforce. The in-demand jobs of the future will be in the tech-sector, so our students should be well positioned for jobs in Information Technologies, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Data Science, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity. 

We will strive to see our students achieve excellence in the classroom, provide excitement on the field, and express themselves through the arts. A successful student is a well-rounded student. As a member of the Board of Education I will work to ensure that our students have a variety of opportunities academically, athletically, and artistically.

Fiscal responsibility allows us to succeed and ensures our long-term success.  We have local examples of what can happen when a school board fails to maintain appropriate spending. I will work hard to ensure that we wisely use the funds taxpayers have entrusted us to secure financial stability for now and for the future.

When teachers, students, parents, and the community come together, everyone wins. Our students are most successful when their parents or guardians are involved in their education. Our schools are at their best when there is a strong bond with the community.

Many students struggle with mental health. Whether it is a diagnosed condition such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, depression and anxiety, or dealing with the stress that can come from school and life situations, we must care for the mental health of our students. I will ensure that we are providing the services that students need in order to succeed.

It is important to acknowledge it is not just students who can have mental health struggles, but that teachers and staff can struggle as well. We need to destigmatize mental health struggles and support them in getting any help they need so that they can be at their best.

Public education is an essential expression of American democracy. The idea that basic education should be free and accessible to all grows out of the democratic ideals our country was founded on. Public education exists not only to benefit the individual students, but to benefit society. A well-educated society is better able to care for one another, progress into the future, and solve the problems society faces.

A deep care for my wife, my children, and my community inspired me to run for a seat on the board of education. Genuine concern for the well-being of others is the ultimate motivator. I believe that every person has worth, that every child deserves access to the best quality education, and that life has meaning and purpose. Kindness, respect, service, and integrity flow from this conviction. It is this commitment that has led me to a life of service to others.

As a police and fire dispatcher I sit on the front lines of emergency response and understand the importance of prepared during an emergency. Training, technology, and tactical planning will  be one of my biggest priorities. I will work with our local police and fire departments to ensure that we are equipped with the best  technologies and that our response plans meet the latest best-practices when it comes to school safety.

I believe in the Golden Rule and always strive to treat others in the manner in which I would like to be treated. This will extend to my work with fellow board members, the superintendent, and beyond while serving on the board of education. Respect is the most basic building block of trust. Showing respect and building trust will allow us to achieve the best results for our district.

I believe that public education is a public trust, something that we are all responsible for. Whether you have children who attend the school, you're a school employee, an alumnus, or simply a member of the community, Lake Local Schools belongs to all of us. It is held in trust by the residents of Lake Township, and we all benefit from a strong school system, even if only indirectly. I would be honored if you elected me to be a trustee for this communal asset.