Like many things in life, public education is a constantly evolving, dynamic system with a countless number of moving parts. Each and every classroom has the beauty of being an amalgamation of uniquely talented individuals. They encompass a wide range of cultural differences, personal interests, family values, learning styles and life experiences. Schools have the challenging task of understanding these differences and providing safe avenues to guide our students as they find their path for success in life. 

As a teacher for over a decade in Summit School District, I am continually impressed with the tireless and selfless work that the board members, administrators, teachers and school employees engage in while setting our students up for lifelong success. The district has constantly and thoughtfully reflected, evolved and adapted to the many challenges faced with education. Our school district should continue to partner with families and the community to make sure that students’ educational experience is rigorous, transparent, accessible, inclusive and equitable. From these school and community partnerships, students deserve to expect to be given opportunities to practice being courageous, curious, globally aware, growth-oriented, and prepared. 

With school board elections approaching, the candidates elected should continue the school board’s focus on personal and academic growth of all students. Hopefully the next school board will continue the work of putting academic systems in place which promote critical thinking skills and encourage students to adopt a growth-mindset. Hopefully work will continue to put personal-growth systems in place that celebrate each others’ differences, make all students feel accepted and provide them a sense of belonging. 

Given their backgrounds in education and community involvement, I gladly support Vanessa Agee, Consuelo Redhorse, Julie Shapiro, and Gayle Jones Westerberg as the next members of the Summit School District Board of Education.