top of page
My thoughts on the biggest issues facing our district
Schools should not be used to play politics with our kids. Education should be focused on core subjects, critical thinking skills, and preparing our kids for success in the real world.
TOP PRIORITIES
Graduation Rates
The path to graduation starts well before high school. We need to look at what's working well to help students progress at each grade level, lean into what's working well, and work quickly to change what isn't working. The district has begun some important work that's a great step in this direction, but disagreements among the board and administration seem to have taken up valuable time and attention that should be refocused on academic goals and key performance indicators.
School Safety
The safety issues facing our schools today are evolving faster than ever, and as a community, we have to be one step ahead of the threats to keep our kids safe. Parents and students deserve honest and open communication about their experiences and concerns, and the district needs to ensure that concerns raised are listed to and acted on.
Accountability
I sincerely believe that most people are fairly reasonable. We know that the public school system is full of challenges and obstacles to be overcome. I don't think most of us expect absolute perfection from our school system, but I do think we expect and deserve transparency and accountability when things go wrong. I think there is a real opportunity for the district to improve its relationship with teachers, parents, and the community by being more transparent about the areas where we have room to improve, and holding itself accountable to making steady progress in those areas.
Budget
The district has added numerous highly paid positions in administration, and it's fair to ask how those investments impact student success. More communication and clarification is needed around money being spent.
Just like in our own households, our school district cannot spend money we don't have. We need to ensure that we work within our means to do the very best we can for our kids with the funds we have.
Teacher Relations
I trust, believe in, and strongly support our teachers. If you value doctors, lawyers, mechanics, plumbers, even retail employees - thank a teacher, because none of those professions are possible without K-12 teachers. Our educators are in the trenches day in and day out fighting for an educated public. In my personal experience, teachers are the most selfless people you'll ever meet. Some parents have concerns about certain curriculum being taught in schools, and that's valid - but we have to remember that there are state and federal standards that dictate what subjects teachers teach. Their fight is with the state, not with our local teachers. I also sincerely believe that if parents reach out to their child's teacher and share their concerns, they might be surprised by what actually is being taught, and how its taught. Teachers are parents too. They understand our fears and the ones I know are more than happy to explain their lesson plans and work with parents to see if there are options to modify your child's participation. If we collaborate with our teachers a little closer, we may find that the stories you're hearing aren't quite the reality. Remember, sensationalism sells these days. Let's deal in facts, and work with our teachers to navigate challenges - not against them.
I'd love to hear from you on these or other topics.
Please reach out any time at AZforMSD@gmail.com,
or via direct message to AZforMSD on Facebook or Instagram.
Hiring our next Superintendent
We need a leader who puts students first, supports teachers, and works well with families and the community.
The hiring process should be open and inclusive. We need a well-rounded search committee made up of teachers, parents, and community leaders to help find the best candidates. The committee must prioritize experience, leadership skills, and a clear vision for student success in the hiring process. Medford families deserve a superintendent who is focused on education and who will work to make our schools stronger, safer, and more effective for every student.
bottom of page