My Priorities
Fiscal decisions based on values
I believe that every financial decision we make as a district should reflect our core values. This means putting students first and ensuring our resources are used where they matter most: in the classroom. It requires prioritizing teachers, staff, and student learning over unnecessary overhead so that every dollar directly benefits kids.
As a school board member, I will be a careful steward of district funds, committed to making well-informed, data-driven decisions. My approach will balance immediate needs with long-term planning so we can remain a strong, competitive district where families are proud to send their children. I will also pursue grants and outside funding to extend our resources and lessen the burden on local taxpayers.
Strong fiscal stewardship isn’t just about managing dollars. It’s about building trust with our community and creating a sustainable path forward for our schools. By grounding financial decisions in values, we can make sure Cedar Rapids students have the opportunities, resources, and learning environments they need to succeed today and for generations to come.
Public dollars belong in public schools
I remain firmly opposed to the voucher program because every public dollar should stay in our public school classrooms, supporting the students, teachers, and staff who rely on them. Public schools serve every child, and diverting funds away undermines the foundation of equal opportunity in our community.
I also believe in building understanding through conversation. I will continue engaging with private school leaders and families to share how vouchers harm not only our public schools but also the broader community. When we protect and strengthen public education, we invest in the future of every child, and in the strength of Cedar Rapids as a whole.
Safe, modern schools for all students
I proudly support the $117 million Believe in CR Schools bond because our kids deserve safe, modern, and inspiring spaces to learn. This investment isn’t just about new buildings. It’s about securing our district’s future, keeping families here, and ensuring Cedar Rapids remains a community where people want to live and raise their children.
By updating facilities to meet today’s learning and safety needs, we create schools that are accessible, welcoming, and built for the future. Prioritizing ADA accessibility and comfortable learning environments means every student, no matter their needs, has the opportunity to succeed in a space where they feel safe and supported.
Support for educators & staff
Our teachers and staff are the heart of our schools, and I am committed to protecting the wages, planning time, and student play time that allow them to do their best work. I will continue to elevate the voices of paraeducators and support staff, whose dedication makes learning possible every single day but too often goes unheard.
When we invest in the people who care for and teach our children, everyone benefits. That’s why I believe in expanding opportunities for professional growth and personal development for all staff. By standing with our educators and support teams, we not only improve classroom experiences today but also build a stronger, more successful future for our students and community
