Deep Local Roots with Fresh Perspectives

Students

STUDENTS: OUR MOST PRECIOUS ASSET

The most precious asset we have in the school district are the Students. This importance comes from two directions. First, they are our children. Every parent knows the power of that statement. There are no other treasures in this world that are remotely as dear to us. Second, they are individuals. From this perspective they need and deserve our respect. We must nurture and care for them as children, and strengthen and value them as individuals. Every decision must be tested against, "What is best for the students of the district as a whole?" We have no other constituents. Does this mean that we ignore parents and teachers? Of course not, because they are the most critical pieces of the educational experience the students have. Everything we do for the students must be done through teachers, parents, and administrators. They all need the best tools we can provide.

LETS KEEP OUR SCHOOLS SAFE AND DEVELOP OUR ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

We need to provide an educational environment that is effective academically. It must also allow the students to grow socially and physically. One of the best pieces of advice I've ever heard is that there are three things we must focus on in this life. We must enrich the mind, strengthen the body, and nourish the spirit. This should be true of the educational experience. We must have effective, interesting and compelling academics. We must provide physical and athletic programs that allow our students to grow up healthy and strong. We must provide opportunities in the Arts and Humanities to further develop that third critical piece of life.

WE MUST PROVIDE QUALITY ELECTIVE PROGRAMS

My life has been filled with growth opportunities. Many of these occurred right here in the Indian Wells Valley. I took advantage of the music programs offered in school from elementary through high school, as well as other community sponsored musical activities. I was very active in both scholastic and community based athletics.

TEACHERS HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE IN MY LIFE

The education I received at the hands of the teachers and school system prepared me to be successful in every academic and professional activity I've undertaken since. I spent several months in 2001, full time, as a substitute teacher. I was very seriously evaluating a significant change to go into teaching as a career, and may yet do so in the future. Also, I'm a parent. I commit to you that I will work extremely hard to provide the best educational opportunities for your children and mine.