Platforms and Key Issues

Keep the Focus on Students and Academics

To ensure the success of our educational system, it is imperative that we equip our teachers, support staff, and administrators with the necessary resources to effectively reach every student. Emphasizing curriculum support, coaching, and data utilization are critical components of this strategy. Equally important is maintaining open communication with parents and guardians, ensuring they are informed of any concerns.

Our approach must integrate both the science of teaching, which involves a deep understanding of the content, and the art of teaching, which focuses on building strong relationships. Both elements are essential for sustaining our A grade and maintaining a 96 percent graduation rate.

A safe learning environment is fundamental for student success. Therefore, the ongoing monitoring and enhancement of our student and school safety plans will remain a top priority

Recruit and Retain Teachers

The state of Florida continues to grapple with the issue of having thousands of permanent substitutes teaching in our public schools. While there has been some improvement compared to the previous year, it remains crucial that we ensure all teaching positions are filled by qualified educators by the first day of school. Alarmingly, the number of college graduates entering the field of education has plummeted from 33 percent in 1970 to less than 9 percent today.

It is imperative that we vigorously advocate for our teachers and provide them with the necessary support to thrive in their profession. The competency of our teachers directly impacts the success of our students. Therefore, we must adopt a proactive stance in addressing this challenge, ensuring that our education system attracts and retains high-quality educators.

Support Public Schools

We recognize the competitive landscape of education, and in Indian River County, we are fully prepared to excel in this environment. Our public schools welcome all students and provide them with diverse choices within our system.

With the implementation of the voucher system, parents now have the option to apply for vouchers if they are homeschooling or sending their children to private or parochial schools. It is important to note that all funds allocated to our public school system are accountable to our taxpayers. Our operating, capital, and internal accounts are always transparent and open for inspection, ensuring fiscal responsibility and integrity.

Athletics in Schools

Since its enactment, Title IX has been a cornerstone of progress, opening doors and creating opportunities for countless students across the nation. This pivotal legislation has not only advanced gender equality in education but has also played a critical role in promoting fairness in athletics, academics, and extracurricular activities.

I firmly believe in maintaining the integrity and fairness of women’s sports. I support the State Statutes and the Florida High School Athletic Association’s stance on this matter.

I will continue to advocate for the creation of inclusive policies that protect the rights of all students, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in sports in a manner that is fair and respectful to all athletes.