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Hometown
Novi, MI
Education
B.S. in Environmental Health from Oakland University
J.D. from Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Family
My husband, Jason, and my son, Ethan.
Professional Experience
I have worked for the last 13 years in the Air Quality Division of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.
Political Experience
None
My son is currently enrolled at Okemos Public Montessori at Central and I have been impressed by the dedication of staff and parents. As a daughter of a public school teacher, I know the tough job teachers and administrators have, especially when revenues from the State are in flux. I know that a supportive school board is a must to help any school district continue to move forward.
I am a former school board member for Stepping Stones Montessori in East Lansing, an active member of the Greater Lansing Alumni Chapter of Gamma Phi Beta, and a member of the ToastNotables Toastmaster Club.
I don't believe that parents should have to fundraise to support their public schools basic budget. Therefore, the number one issue I see is to ensure that there is proper funding from the State. If elected I would gladly work with the other members of the school board to determine the best course of action to ensure this funding.
The other issue is the new LGBT guidelines from the State. Before enacting local guidelines on that issue I would like to determine how the district currently deals with these issues. All students have the right to a safe and supportive learning environment and if a similar policy is needed then it should be enacted by the school board.
Okemos is lucky that it has great parent involvement, competent staff, and good fundraising to keep the district in the top of all Michigan schools. Currently the district is in great financial shape. If elected I would, along with the rest of the board, keep an eye on any current and future budget issues to maintain the finances in the district,
The Okemos School District is lucky that it has adequate funding for the current and projected school years. The decision to close a school building is not something that is likely to be faced in the near future.
The Okemos School District, through a collaboration between parents, teachers, and staff, is a very high performing district. Last year's M-STEP test results showcase that students in our district consistently outperform not only other schools in the Ingham Intermediate School District but also in the State. In addition, one of our elementary schools was just named a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School; an award given to only thirteen (K-12 public and private) schools in Michigan.
The facilities in the Okemos School District are a mix of new and older buildings. The school district does a good job maintaining the buildings but there is always room for improvement. One item that I see is a need to add air conditioning to the older buildings, especially as the school year seem to be increasing.
I have been impressed by the superintendent of the Okemos School District. Dr. Ash seems to have a good grasp on the day-to-day operations of the district, is committed to advancing the district's Equity Plan, and making sure that all students get a great education.
Yes.