1. What is your ultimate goal for the education system in Tyler County?

My ultimate goal is to strengthen academics. Currently Tyler County Schools are rated 5th in the state, which allows room for improvement in preparing our students to receive scholarships and excelling at the careers of their choice.

2. Why do you want to be a Tyler County BOE member?

It has been an honor to serve on the Tyler County Board for the last four years and work with our educators to provide a positive impact on our county’s youth. I believe we can carry the momentum into the next term for the betterment of our students as well.

3. What are the leadership responsibilities of school board members?

Currently school board members in West Virginia are responsible for managing operating finances and governing our county’s public schools. Board members also need to keep in mind the future of our students and communities by listening to suggestions and values of our community.

4. What specific strengths would you bring to the board table?

My strength, I believe, is my unbiased approach with no personal investment in any one program within the school system.

5. What do you see as the role of technology in education?

Technology is increasing as we move forward and the need for staying on top of the newest technology is a constant concern. The influx of natural gas operations in the area is an example as survey crews use drones to access remote sites. The board has introduced training courses that teach students how to fly drones in pursuit of FAA certifications.

6. What should our school district be doing to ensure the safety of students and staff?

School resource officers have been placed at each campus in the county. I believe we need to keep the SROs trained on current issues we face today and assure they are on site from the first bus arrival to the last bus departure. Bullying, drug, and alcohol programs need to be reinforced and taught by trained professionals. We need to make each school a safe place for every student in Tyler County.

7. What particular skills or experiences qualify you to serve as a school board member?

As a current board member, I have attended all required training through the WV State Board of Education. Seven hours yearly are required and at this time I have 15.5 hours for the year.

8. What do you see as the current challenges facing public education in our state?

Currently one of the largest problems is the lack of broadband internet services throughout the entire county. Also, locating and hiring qualified teachers has become more difficult.

9. If elected, what would you hope would be the key accomplishments of the board during your years of service?

If re-elected, I would like to invest in our schools music programs and push to provide new opportunities for our students by adding a string section to one of the most accomplished music departments in the state. Additionally, focusing on the safety of our students, I will work with state officials to secure funding for a second bridge at Tyler Consolidated complex to alleviate traffic congestion and provide emergency access to and from the campus.