Questions & Answers

What is the importance of the District 3 School Board to residents of Mahomet-Seymour?

The school board can be a pivotal factor in the overall success in our school district. The board sets the tone of the district, from advocating for administration to fiscal responsibility to being the voice of the children.

Why are you qualified to be on the School Board?

My personal and professional background is refreshingly different than any of the other candidates running for the school board this election. I have worked with and been an advocate for children my entire adult life. I am a birth parent, adoptive parent, parent to a special needs child, and an advocate for other parents. There was no question while pursuing my college degree that I wanted to be an educator, and I have taught in a number of different capacities and worked directly with children in many different venues. However, when my husband and I became foster parents in 1995, my career unexpectedly took a path that I could not have predicted but I believe has tailored me for the role of a school board member. I have spent the last 19 years as a social worker with the title of Foster Parent Support Specialist. I am a liaison between parents and staff, between foster parents and social workers and families in a difficult bureaucratic system to navigate. I know what it is like to hear both sides and find the common ground, to gently guide both parties to an understanding of where each side is coming from. I am confident that these skills will enable me to be a skilled board member.

If elected, what is something you want to accomplish on the School Board, and how long will it take?

I would like to create a more receptive line of communication between the board and the community. This can be accomplished in the short run by helping families in the district have their feelings validated.

Is there anything else you would like to say to an undecided voter?

I encourage all voters to reach out to candidates individually and to attend forums. I value community member's input and suggestions.