The start of a new school year is always a special time. For students, it’s a chance to reconnect with friends, meet new teachers, and take on fresh challenges. As a parent, it’s a mix of pride, excitement, and definitely a little nervous energy. And for our dedicated teachers, administrators, and school staff, it’s the moment when months of preparation come to fruition. First off, good luck to everyone!! WE CAN DO THIS!!!
The start of a new school year and the recent opportunity to speak at the Candidate Forum hosted by the Small Business Freedom Alliance at West Oaks earlier this week, got me thinking about our schools, teachers, administrators and community. While introducing myself and differentiating myself from the other candidates I asked the attendees to close their eyes and “Imagine” a school board and school system with some of the key values I’ve heard during my conversations in the community. I want to take this moment to share my excitement for the year ahead AND my commitment to those values that matter most to our community.
Imagine~ Parental Rights & Transparency
I believe parents should always have a seat at the table when it comes to their child’s education. That means:
When schools and families work together, students thrive. I’m committed to making that partnership stronger.
Imagine~ Safer Schools
Safety is the foundation of learning. I’ll advocate for measures that protect our students and staff; physically, emotionally, and socially. That includes secure facilities, effective communication, and a supportive school climate where every student feels valued. And with the return of buses to our roads, I want to remind everyone: Stop when school bus lights are flashing and the stop arm is out, unless you’re on the opposite side of a divided highway. Let’s all be alert and protect our kids.
Imagine~ Fiscal Responsibility
Our schools run on taxpayer dollars, and I take that responsibility seriously. My 25+ years in project management have taught me how to balance complex budgets, find efficiencies, and deliver results without waste. I will ensure every dollar is spent wisely directly supporting students while respecting the hard-earned money of our residents.
Imagine~ Competitive Teacher Pay
Our teachers are the heart of Frederick County Public Schools. To recruit and keep the very best, we must offer competitive salaries and strong professional development opportunities. Investing in our teachers is one of the smartest, most impactful things we can do for our students’ future.
Imagine~ Leadership & Community Service
I bring over 25 years of leadership experience leading cross-functional teams, solving difficult problems, and delivering measurable results. But I’m equally proud of my community service:
These experiences have prepared me to listen, collaborate, and make decisions that put students first.
Looking Ahead
The 2025–26 school year is full of promise. Together, we can make Frederick County schools a place where students are challenged academically, supported socially, and prepared for whatever path they choose. I look forward to working with parents, teachers, students, and community members to make that happen. And a reminder: early voting begins September 19th. Let’s make this a year of strong starts, shared goals, and lasting success for all.