04/05/2021
I’ve had a few people ask me specifically why I was running for the school board. Let me start by saying that I have always taken pride in the sense that I feel as though I do have a pretty open mind and am willing to listen to others, even if I might not initially be in line with their thoughts. Even after considering someone else’s thoughts/opinions, I do also have the ability to agree to disagree without it becoming a problem.
Over the course of the last few months since I filed my paperwork to run and through the many conversations I’ve had, I’ve really realized how important of a role school board members play in determining the path of our school district. I’ve also realized that I do believe the majority of the current and past school board members really try to do what is best for our district whether I have agreed or disagreed with some of the decisions that have been made. I’m certain that if I am elected there will probably be instances where I won’t agree with some or all of the other board members and that’s entirely ok. I’m also certain that there will be some, including those who will eventually vote for me that may not agree with all of the decisions that I make while on the board. That’s why decisions are made by a group to ensure the best possible outcome for the district.
Ultimately I hope and will strive to be an asset to the board. The one goal I have for every decision I will make on the board is to always attempt to do what is best for our students and teachers while ensuring that our School District continues to thrive.
There are a few main things that I do plan on doing if elected.
The first one would be to really dig into our budget. I’m not certain that I’ll disagree with the current or past budgets but with my previous business experience, it is something I would like to take an in-depth look at and review.
Second, I’d really like to see what if anything can be done with what I would consider to be a chronic problem of graduates not following through on after graduation plans. Whether that be college, trade schools, sports in college, other career plans. I realize how indecisive I was as a teenager and I’m not certain that anyone or anything really could have prepared me for life after high school. I would like to look at what can be done to ensure kids don’t get discouraged from their plans and do what’s necessary to give them the tools to stick with whatever their desires are.
Third, I’d like to meet with students/teachers/coaches/other staff to specifically ask if their is anything they don’t like about their school/careers. I know there is always room for improvement. Im not sure that I will be able to solve all of the issues they might have but it’s worth an attempt to potentially make improvements/changes where the board isn’t necessarily aware of something that might be an easy fix.
I can honestly say that I’m excited about the potential opportunity to represent the community by serving on the Odessa R7 School Board. I can also honestly say that I’m 100% confident in the abilities of those that are running against me. Jessica, Cole, and Junior, all have what I would consider to be the right intentions. No matter who wins or loses, I believe it’s a great thing that we have so many great people who have an interest in serving their community.
I hope this has given some a look into my mind and I hope to have your vote on Tuesday!
