Why are you running for CCSD Trustee? What is your vision of success for this role?

I am running for CCSD Trustee in District E because I am deeply committed to the success of our students, teachers, and community. As a proven leader with a strong track record of creating positive change, I believe I bring the experience, passion, and dedication needed to make a meaningful impact. My vision of success for this role is to foster a positive culture and climate within CCSD, where every student feels supported and valued, and where the educational system is strengthened to ensure equitable opportunities for all. By working collaboratively with the community, educators, and families, I aim to build a district that prioritizes excellence, inclusivity, and accountability.

How do you define student success? What experience do you have and what role do you intend to play in advocating for student success?

Student success is unique to each individual, and I believe it’s crucial that every student has access to the quality resources they need to make informed decisions about their future. Whether a student chooses to pursue trade school, college, or another path, my goal is to support their vision of success.

I bring a wealth of experience to this role. I am a licensed special education teacher with a Master’s in Education and a Master’s in Divinity, and I am currently completing my PhD in Special Education. In addition to my teaching experience, I have mentored and prepared future special education teachers, equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in this challenging field.

As an advocate for student success, I will leverage my expertise in evidence-based practices to ensure that all students have access to high-quality learning materials and opportunities that cater to their individual goals and aspirations. My commitment is to create an educational environment where every student can thrive, regardless of the path they choose.

If elected to the Board, how would you approach challenging conversations and/or criticisms that might arise from fellow Board members, stakeholders, and the broader community?

Criticism and challenging conversations are an inherent part of the work, and I do not shy away from them. I approach these situations with an open mind and a genuine commitment to listening to the concerns brought forward. By valuing diverse perspectives, I believe we can collaboratively develop effective solutions that address the needs of our community and drive positive change.

 In 2023, the U.S. Department of Education identified three key areas of importance for improving student achievement: addressing chronic absenteeism, providing high-dosage tutoring, and providing summer and expanded/after school learning programs. Do you agree? If so, how would you work with the Superintendent to prioritize these areas? If not, what key areas would you identify and how would you work with the Superintendent to prioritize those key areas?

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree that students need multiple opportunities to advance their skills. I strongly support high-dosage tutoring and am committed to working closely with the Superintendent to ensure every student has the chance to benefit from these tutoring opportunities. Additionally, I believe that expanded and after-school learning programs are invaluable, as they provide students with crucial opportunities to enhance their skills and achieve academic success.

A nationwide study conducted by TNTP found that students received a passing grade on 71% of their assignments–with more than half of those students receiving an A or B. However, only 17% of those same students demonstrated grade-level mastery on their assignments. How can Nevada schools make sure that the grades students receive in the classroom demonstrate grade-level mastery of the material? How can you support this change from the position you are seeking? 

The findings from the TNTP study are concerning and highlight a significant gap between the grades students receive and their actual mastery of the material. As a CCSD Trustee, I would advocate for the adoption of evidence-based practices that emphasize mastery-based learning. This approach would involve ensuring that tools and support needed to create assignments that truly measure students’ understanding of the material. Supporting high-dosage tutoring expanded after-school programs, and other supplemental learning opportunities would be a key priority for me. These initiatives can help students who are falling behind to reach grade-level mastery, ensuring that their grades reflect their true understanding. By focusing on these strategies, we can create a more equitable and effective educational system that better prepares all students for success.

If elected, it is possible that there will be a new superintendent in place when you take office. The current Board of Trustees sent out a survey to the public to get input on the qualities the new superintendent should possess. The following is one of the questions from that survey. Please select four qualities from the list and explain why you have prioritized those qualities:

I would like the new Superintendent to (select only four):

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of educational research and emerging best practices and implement strategies;
• Effectively plan and manage the long-term financial health of CCSD; Provide guidance for district-wide curriculum and instruction;
• Be an effective manager of CCSD’s day-to-day operations;
• Recruit, employ, and retain effective personnel throughout CCSD and its schools;
• Foster a positive, professional climate of mutual trust and respect among faculty, staff, and administrators;
• Provide transparent communication;
• Understand and be sensitive to the needs of a diverse student population;
• Establish a culture of high expectations for all students and personnel;
• Provide a clear, compelling vision for the future;
• Integrate personalized educational opportunities into the instructional program;
• Be visible throughout CCSD and actively engaged in community life.

I would like the new superintendent to:

Foster a positive, professional climate of mutual trust and respect among faculty, staff, and administrators: It’s essential that faculty, staff, and administrators feel valued and supported. When trust and respect are prioritized, it creates a collaborative atmosphere where educators can thrive, leading to better outcomes for students.

Establish a culture of high expectations for all students and personnel: Establishing a culture of achievement motivates everyone in the district to strive for their best, which is crucial for the overall success of our schools.

Understand and be sensitive to the needs of a diverse student population: CCSD is home to a richly diverse community, and it’s important that the superintendent recognizes and responds to the unique needs of all students. Sensitivity to diversity ensures that every student, regardless of their background, has access to the resources and support they need to succeed.

Be visible throughout CCSD and actively engaged in community life: Visibility and community engagement are vital for building strong connections between the district and the community it serves. A superintendent who is present and involved in the life of the community gains a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our schools.