Issues

I have been a student in a struggling school that barely graduated 60% of my class, a classroom teacher in Title I schools, and a graduate of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. My policy positions are informed by my personal experiences and observations as well as data, policy papers, and sociology of education studies.

Student Achievement and Equity

Student success is the central mission of schools, but unfortunately, school systems often get distracted with the hot-button political issue of the day. I will center every policy decision around student achievement, beginning with how to support and empower students who are traditionally underserved.

Special Education

HISD's failure to prioritize special education is part of why the state has taken over the district. As your board member, I will make sure HISD's special education services are properly funded, well-staffed, and effective. Our schools are responsible for meeting every student's individual needs.
 

Standardized Testing

As a former teacher, I know that a singular focus on test scores gives schools the bad incentive to ignore everything else. But I also believe that STAAR scores provide valuable data that we can use to identify and address gaps in instruction. As a board member, I will use standardized tests to inform where help is needed, but not to dominate the culture of our schools.

Teacher Pay and Retention

Teachers have a massive impact on students' lives. They need to be given clarity on how they're being evaluated and have the support to make their work sustainable. I will never forget what it's like to be a teacher and I will work to make the teaching profession more respected. This means higher pay and additional support so that teachers can put their primary focus on students.

Family Partnerships

HISD has a responsibility to involve students' families in their education, including non-English speakers. My teaching experience tells me that communication with students' families is key to success in the classroom. Schools work at their best when students' families are invited to play a key role in their children's education.