10/27/2025
I would just like to share my answers regarding my candidacy that were published in Independence Today in case you missed the article!
1. How should the district address funding challenges resulting from new state laws?
The recent changes to Ohio’s 2026 budget require proactive, steady planning. Our priority is ensuring students have the resources to succeed while keeping funding sustainable and transparent for taxpayers. Independence receives relatively little per student under the state’s current plan, with most costs covered locally. Fortunately, Independence is a thriving community with strong commercial activity, which positions us well to adapt with resilience. By leveraging these strengths, we can navigate state funding shifts without compromising student success.
2. Do you support the idea of a bond issue for the construction of a new school building that houses Pre-K through eighth-grade? Why or why not?
Making sure our students and educators have an environment conductive to effective learning and success must come first. I support a bond for new construction because engineering studies show it is more cost-effective for taxpayers than multiple large-scale renovations. At the same time, I remain open to alternative perspectives and new information that may emerge. I will work collaboratively with all stakeholders within the community, knowing that voters will ultimately decide.
3. If elected, what is one thing you want to accomplish while on the school board?
If elected, I want to help ensure that the caliber of our schools matches the caliber of our community. Independence is already fortunate to have good schools, but I believe we can aim even higher. With thoughtful planning and collaboration, we can work toward becoming one of the top 20 districts in the Cleveland Metropolitan area. Achieving this will mean supporting our educators, strengthening academic programs, and continuing to align resources with student success.
