League of Women Voters

 Because trustees serve a three year term, I think it’s important that voters learn as much as possible about each candidate before election day. I have always believed honesty and transparency is key to effective leadership, and so have chosen to post the answers to all of the campaign interviews and questionnaires I have been asked to complete. If you have a question not asked by one of these surveys, please let me know!

These questions were for the League of Women Voters questionnaire that they use to create their online voting guide, which will be available soon. Answers were limited in space to fit their specific requirements.

Education:

BBA From Texas Christian University – MJ Neeley School of Business, Magna Cum Laude Graduate.

Graduated with Honors, Fort Worth ISD, Southwest High School.

Community Involvement:

1 of 30 on GCISD’s 10 Year Strategic Planning Team

that created LEAD 2021; LEAD 2021 Curriculum Sub-Team; Founder/Current President of SAGE, a 501c3 Non-Profit Parent Group; Parent Representative on the District GTAC; GES PTA Officer; Grapevine & Colleyville Chambers of Commerce; Grapevine Women’s Division; Girl Scout Troop Co-Leader and Active Campus & Classroom Volunteer

Campaign Questions

Why are you running for the school board?

I was honored to be appointed as 1 of 30 members of GCISD’s ten year Strategic Planning Team that developed LEAD 2021. This team established a direction for the district that will bring our students self-directed, individualized learning and the technology to make it all possible.

I want to make sure we stay focused on these goals despite the obvious financial difficulties, that we streamline spending appropriately, and that any budget cuts are made strategically and in line with that plan.

 What strengths and skills will you bring to the school board?

My career has focused on strategic planning for non-profits and corporate social responsibility, including serving as VP of Marketing for United Way of Dallas and as a consultant for over 10 years. I have experience working with multiple boards of directors helping to create and implement strategic plans and understand the delicate balance between the board and staff. My visionary and collaborative leadership style encourages differing opinions in a respectful and productive manner.

Due to state cutbacks in educational funding, what solutions can you offer to improve all educational services?

A recent SEAT committee developed ways to counter budget shortfalls while we actively work with the legislative & legal process to remedy our inequitable funding formula. In addition, we need to look at community leaders and parents as partners in education. I started a parent group for GT students with a goal of increasing communication and awareness and providing financial support. In one year we had over 1,000 parents subscribe. That same level of involvement is needed for all families.

Explain three ways you would use your position on the school board to improve the quality of education in the classroom

Involved parents are among our district’s greatest assets. We need to improve communication and look to them as partners. Second, we must work with legislators to adjust the outdated funding formula, raise the cap on revenue and take back local control. Finally, we have to deliver the promises of LEAD 2021 to our students. This will bring personal learning plans ensuring every student is challenged and learning at a uniquely appropriate level and will protect GCISD’s reputation in education.