Q & A - Do you mind explaining your stance on AP/enrichment? DEI? How would your approach be different than the current Board majority?

Did you think I was done? LOL. Still more questions and still more answers. I am going to keep this open after the election, too, so we can continue to talk as a community. Win or lose, we need to keep this conversation going.

Let’s break this down into three separate questions and answers:

Do you mind explaining your stance on AP/enrichment?

I love AP courses. We don't have a ton of opportunity to teach "up" to the kids that are the higher achievers in our district until they reach high school, so the AP programs become extremely important for those kids wishing to go above and beyond. It would be concerning to hear if these classes might be considered non-essential, so if we were to go into major budget cutting mode they might end up on that list. I don't want to cut programs for students - I'd rather find another way to save money or raise money. I feel the same way about enrichment. I believe that kids get as much learning from music and arts and technical projects as they do any core subject. They combine all aspects of core learning, while also including a vital sensory component that I believe ALL kids of all ages need. In short, I think AP classes and enrichment at the high school are extremely important and I am very proud that our district has these offerings for our students. I'll do whatever I can to protect them.

Do you mind explaining your stance on DEI?

Diversity is one of the things that makes this district so unique up here in Westchester, and one of the reasons I love it so much. I think diversity is how we learn from each other - about different cultures and experiences - without having to go far from home. Equity is vital in a school system because it provides a level playing field for all children regardless of who they are or where they’re from. Inclusion is what makes a school community cohesive and strong. I work very hard with my kids in Early Intervention to teach them the skills to grow up in school with their age group. School is about academics, but it’s also about social skills so we need to make sure all children are included whenever possible.

How would your approach be different than the current Board majority?

Everyone says that they are student-focused, but it will be interesting to get in there and see how much that holds true. My focus is always on the kids first - what will be best for them? That’s my focus and that will never change.