Issues

Our educators are the backbone of our education system. I'm committed to advocating for competitive salaries and professional development opportunities. The recent 8% pay increase for all units and the increase in starting teacher salaries to $58,161 in the FY24 budget is a step in the right direction. We must continue to prioritize and enhance educator compensation and opportunity to attract and retain top talent.

Early childhood education is crucial for long-term academic success. It is essential that we protect funding for recently expanded access to public pre-k programs, ensuring every child in Anne Arundel County has a strong foundation for their educational journey.

Our world is changing more rapidly than ever. The jobs of tomorrow won't look like the jobs of today, and the skills our kids need as they approach their entrance to the workforce are constantly shifting. We must ensure that our curriculum and school programs are staying up-to-date with these shifting demands, and properly preparing students to pursue career or college journeys that will enable them to thrive in the modern workplace. 

The mental health of our students is struggling. With the ever- increasing speed of change, social media addiction, rising social tensions, rising costs of living, there are so many stressors in our modern world being heaped upon our children that are already facing the normal struggles of simply growing up and figuring out who they are. I will be a staunch advocate for increased mental health resources in our schools, including more counselors, to ensure that all students have access to the care and support they need.

Our schools should be safe and conducive environments for learning. I will push for necessary renovations and upgrades to our aging school facilities, ensuring that they meet modern standards for safety and learning.

Effective and efficient transportation is vital for our students. I will work to ensure there is continued investment in solving transportation issues and risks, ensuring timely and safe travel for students. Additionally, the impending 2nd phase of the school redistricting project is coming to District 7 soon and must be handled with absolute care and attention to detail to serve the best interests of all students and communities.