{"database": "schoolboard", "table": "candidates", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where County = \"Carroll County\" sorted by rowid", "rows": [[26, "Carroll County", "Muri Lynn Dueppen", "y", "dueppen4education.com", "www.facebook.com/murilynndueppen4education", "dueppen4education@gmail.com", "55", "Corporate relations officer at the National Aquarium.\n", "Bachelor of science in biology from the College of William and Mary.", "

I am uniquely qualified to lead our school system in a way that sets students up for success. This includes having been a dedicated local public education advocate for 10 years, fighting for the resources students and educators need. The Carroll County Education Association recognized those efforts with their Friend of Education Award in 2023. The focus of the board needs to return to academics, instead of the deeply divisive culture wars. The current board has too much allegiance to Carroll\u2019s political power structure and no representation from the southwestern part of the county. My husband and I put down roots in Mount Airy largely because of the excellent public schools. We need to keep them that way. That matters not only to Carroll County Public Schools families but also to their neighbors without kids in the system because strong schools translate to safe, friendly, economically prosperous communities. \n

Our current Board of Education is badly out of balance. We need to cultivate a community where every voice is heard and valued. We need to come together on common ground with our common values front and center. We need to elect people who genuinely believe in the promise of public education, who center decisions around putting students first, who recognize and deeply admire how amazing teachers and other educators are, and who can contribute to a climate that makes learning fun. I model those traits and will work incredibly hard on behalf of every family. \n", "

I am proud to be endorsed by the Carroll County Education Association and Carroll Association of School Employees. \n

Professionally, I am the corporate relations officer at the National Aquarium. My nonprofit management career confers many applicable skills and leadership qualities: staff supervision, budgeting, strategic planning, committee and board relations, commitment to mission-driven service, creativity, tenacity, and optimism. \n

Right out of college, I worked with hundreds of children as an informal environmental educator. This included conducting assembly presentations with live exotic animals and facilitating farm animal encounters in addition to program development and interpretive signage production. \n

My husband and I raised two kids as active Carroll County Public Schools parent-volunteers. They attended from kindergarten through 12th-grade graduation (one during COVID). Having parented two students at every grade level, I have a deep knowledge of the system, policies, and personnel. As a candidate in 2018, I visited every school and interviewed every principal. \n

My upbringing in a military family that moved often entailed attending eight different schools growing up, including overseas. I experienced a wide range of learning environments and made friends with classmates from all walks of life.\n

I co-founded and co-led a nonpartisan grassroots group, VOCAL Carroll County, to promote civic engagement and good local governance. Accomplishments include advocating for a state-compliant ethics ordinance for Carroll County government; getting out the informed vote in municipal elections with the Main Streets Matter campaign, and partnering with other civics-focused groups like the local League of Women Voters and Braver Angels.", "

I think it is nearly impossible to choose one clear challenge that is predominant among the many serious issues facing public education in general and Carroll County Public Schools specifically. They are all complex and interconnected. None can be simply solved by the board alone. Because the teacher shortage poses the biggest threat, their greatest concern currently is the one we must take most seriously immediately: the increasing behavioral issues in classrooms. I address that partly in my responses to the school safety and cellphone policy questions. In addition, I would prioritize a review of discipline and other policies that impact educators\u2019 and administrators\u2019 ability to manage behavior, engaging parents as partners. \n

Beyond that, the ability to recruit and retain high-quality teachers is mandatory and multi-faceted. I would endeavor to be a good employer of all school staff. Providing competitive compensation, improving working conditions, and cultivating a climate of camaraderie are all keys to making Carroll County Public Schools a preferred place to work. \n

I believe that the single most important thing that school systems can do to improve the efficacy of instruction, educator satisfaction, and school performance is to empower educators and elevate their voices. They are second only to students as important internal stakeholders. I would advocate for a more frequent, robust formal platform for learning from them the best way to overcome behavioral and other barriers to continuously improve academic performance. ", "With my lifelong passion for wildlife conservation, I have long admired Dr. Jane Goodall and was thrilled when I had the opportunity to hear her speak in person and meet her briefly when I worked for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. As a scientist she has done extensive, groundbreaking work with global reach. Her fierce intellect and huge heart are a formidable combination. She has pursued her work with tireless diligence, integrity, strength and kindness. Renowned as primatologist, her impact goes beyond chimpanzees and Africa as she is a champion for wildlife and wild places worldwide. I am also inspired by how \u2014 at age 90 \u2014 she hasn\u2019t let up or rested on her laurels. She is a stellar example for any of us who wish to lead a purpose-driven life that includes service to our community and planet.", "

The Blueprint\u2019s goals are all evidence-based and have great potential to advance Maryland\u2019s public education system. Without it I do not believe the recent and long overdue increases in teacher salary and implementation of the career ladder would have happened. That was rightly the highest priority but it isn\u2019t enough to ensure a high-quality public education for every child.\n

However, the Blueprint is ambitious, unwieldy and expensive. Its mandates do not adequately account for the unique situations in every county. It should and is likely to evolve. But there are some narratives around it in Carroll County that concern me as I think they could ultimately be counter-productive, despite being mostly well-intentioned (although calling for its abolition is na\u00efve at best). I expect it is here to stay, and so local leaders must positively partner with decision makers at the state level and respectfully and optimistically engage with lawmakers to make legislative modifications. \n

The combative posture of many local officials diminishes our ability to help ourselves. We must cultivate cooperation to make needed changes to the Blueprint. Meaningful, mutually respectful collaboration along with diligence, data, thoughtfulness and innovation will be necessary for staff and the board to ensure fair, successful implementation locally. \n

In addition, many complaints about the funding predicament at the county level fail to acknowledge that our school system would be much better positioned to reallocate resources if it had not been forced to operate under austerity conditions for a decade.", "The dangers of an open internet and social media for young people are undisputed. So is the disruption to the learning environment of easy access to extraneous electronics in the classroom. Most classroom educators are completely clear about the magnitude of this problem, although parents have more widely varying opinions with many preferring a more permissive approach.\n

The best policy allows educators complete authority in the classroom, with the full support of administration. Elementary-age students do not need phones at school (if at all). Middle school-age students can learn good digital citizenship\u2014with severely limited access, strictly enforced. At high school, young adults have responsibilities that require access to communications during the day, so I oppose completely restricting access during free time. In all cases, communication and guidance for students and parents that encourages willing cooperation is ideal to promote buying into the importance of compliance.", "

Carroll County Public Schools have excellent personnel in its Office of School Security, a dedicated volunteer Security Advisory Council, robust relationships with law enforcement, nonprofits, and community groups, plus an amazing asset in its School Resource Officer (SRO) program. However, increasing behavioral challenges are directly impacting instruction, safety and overall school climate.\n

Working with nonprofit organizations and agencies that address mental health and behavioral issues \u2014 including risk and threat assessment as well as targeted interventions \u2014 is crucial. Partnering with parents and community groups that pursue anti-bullying initiatives is also worthwhile. I would prioritize this multi-pronged approach to addressing the situation and improving the safety of students and staff alike.", "I agree that \u201csexually gratuitous\u201d material is not only unnecessary, but potentially harmful. I support the Carroll County Public Schools material review process as it was intended to operate, which may result in the infrequent removal of a book or two. However, the expertise of professionals trained to select developmentally appropriate material should be respected, and overriding their judgment should be exceedingly rare. Reasonable mechanisms can be put in place to honor the wishes of parents who wish to restrict what their own children access without violating the rights of other parents. As an institution of learning with a mission of preparing lifelong learners for life, the last thing Carroll County Public Schools should do is prop up book banning efforts by outside political groups that have dramatically reduced the number available for eager young adult readers. Material that is challenging is essential for achieving excellence, and I support the freedom to read.", "Discussions and decisions around these policies and others related to the rights and responsibilities of school systems toward transgender and gender nonconforming students must be conducted thoughtfully, sensitively and respectfully in good faith. They must also recognize the rights of other students, staff and all parents/guardians. The legal landscape around students\u2019 rights to privacy and parents\u2019 rights to information is a foundational factor, as is the safety of students \u2014 which is the primary and legitimate justification for these policies. Current guidance from the Maryland State Department of Education affirms the authority of local education agencies to adopt these policies. They have also been tested and affirmed in federal court. I would not personally pursue such a policy in Carroll County Public Schools at this time for multiple reasons, including concerns about the conversation itself causing harm to the students it would be intended to protect."], [27, "Carroll County", "Amanda Jozkowski", "y", "amandaj4boe.com", "https://www.facebook.com/AmandaJ4BOE", "amandaj4boe@gmail.com", "40", "Associate professor of occupational therapy and occupational science; Graduate Program director, Towson University. Licensed and registered occupational therapy practitioner in the state of Maryland. \n", "Doctorate in occupational science, University of Southern California.", "

As a parent of three school-aged children, I am deeply invested in the future of Carroll County Public Schools. I want to help our school system, which is at the heart of our community, remain strong and focused on the success of every student. My professional background as an occupational therapist and professor equips me with a unique perspective on child development, educational best practices, support services for students with learning and healthcare needs and the importance of inclusive, evidence-based policies.\n

In recent years, I have become increasingly concerned with the politicization of public education. Decisions that impact our children should be driven by data, best practices and the needs of our students and educators \u2014 not by partisan agendas. I want to eliminate division and distraction and refocus the board\u2019s efforts on what matters most: ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education that prepares them for life after graduation, whether that means college, career or other pursuits.\n

My campaign is centered on collaboration, community engagement, competence and care. I will advocate for board decisions to be made in the best interest of every student. By partnering with parents, educators, and community members, the Board of Education can evolve Carroll County Public Schools into a world-class school system where every educator feels supported, every child feels they belong and every family is heard. I humbly ask for your vote to serve our community and protect the public schools that make Carroll County such a great place to live and learn.", "

My experiences as a parent, educator and public education advocate qualify me to be an exceptional leader for our schools and are key reasons that my running mate Muri Lynn Dueppen and I are endorsed by both the Carroll County educators and school employee associations. As an occupational therapy professor with a research focus on therapeutic play and development, I have built deep connections with families navigating increasingly complex special education/accommodation policies and processes. I have a strong understanding of educational systems and education-related legislation at the local, state and federal levels, and have been a vocal proponent for issues including sufficient funding, teacher support and accessibility for many years. \n

I am also directly invested in the future of our school system as the parent of children who attend Carroll County Public Schools. I actively participate in school activities, serving on the parent-teacher association, two county-level committees, and volunteering in classrooms. My involvement gives me firsthand insight into the day-to-day challenges and opportunities in our schools.\n

My professional background equips me with the skills needed to measure and analyze data, build consensus, and make informed decisions. My leadership experience in strategic planning and budget management will help ensure that our schools are well-resourced and that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. I believe in listening to the community and being a voice for parents, educators and students.

My goal is to bring a balanced, thoughtful approach to the board, focusing on practical solutions that benefit all stakeholders in our community.", "

Students need a school environment in which they feel safe, supported and ready to learn. However, the intersection of classroom behavior, teacher support and student mental health (deeply interconnected factors that directly impact the quality of education) is a major challenge to this goal. \n

Classroom disruptions and bullying are increasingly driven by stressors that students face, such as mental health challenges and the overuse/misuse of technology \u2014 particularly social media and inaccurate or untrustworthy sources of information. These issues not only create barriers to learning, but also contribute to teacher burnout as educators struggle to manage behavioral issues while meeting academic demands. Understanding and addressing the root causes of behavior can help reduce harm to students and staff and create a more supportive school environment.\n

If elected, I will prioritize more comprehensive supports for both students and educators. This would include hiring more counselors, social workers and classroom support staff, and providing ongoing training for teachers on managing classroom behavior and recognizing early signs of mental health issues. I will advocate for continued partnership with school resource officers and the Sheriff's Office, and the integration of preventive measures in our disciplinary policies to keep students engaged and reduce the reliance on exclusionary practices such as seclusion. I will work to make sure educators are supported, by both administrators and school system policy, to effectively manage their classrooms without excessive paperwork or fear of injury or litigation. ", "

Throughout her career, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg demonstrated the power of perseverance and principled leadership. Her work on the Supreme Court, particularly in the areas of gender equality and civil liberties, has had a profound impact on American society.\n

Justice Ginsburg\u2019s ability to build consensus and her dedication to upholding the Constitution, even in the face of significant opposition, are qualities I deeply respect. She showed that one could be both firm in their convictions and open to dialogue and compromise. This balance is critical to effective public service and is a leadership style I aim to emulate.\n

As a Board of Education member, I will draw on Justice Ginsberg\u2019s model of dedication to fairness, and her belief in the importance of equal opportunity, as I work to ensure that every student in Carroll County has access to a safe, inclusive and high-quality education.", "

The Blueprint represents a significant investment in the future of Maryland\u2019s education system. Its focus on equity, accountability and excellence aligns with my values as well as the research on how best to support student success. Provisions for increased funding for high-needs students and emphasis on early childhood education and career readiness will help close achievement gaps and prepare students for life beyond high school. In Carroll County, the Blueprint will provide the resources needed to enhance educational offerings and pay teachers more competitively. I support the Blueprint\u2019s goals and will work to align our district\u2019\u2019s budget and policies with its pillars. \n

While the Blueprint offers many benefits, its implementation will require careful planning and collaboration to overcome potential obstacles \u2014 just as with any large, long-term piece of legislation. I will work with local, state and federal leadership to advocate for sufficient and sustained funding and to address the logistical challenges of implementing new programs and practices across diverse school districts. The Carroll County Public Schools Board of Education must partner with the state to articulate the unique needs and values of our county, and request flexibility in implementation where feasible and appropriate. \n

If elected, I will seek to provide ongoing professional development and support to educators and staff to effectively implement Blueprint initiatives. Utilizing my background in program assessment and accreditation, I will work to monitor and evaluate the impact of Blueprint policies to confirm they are achieving the desired outcomes and make necessary adjustments as indicated.", "

I support a balanced approach, recognizing both the potential benefits of phones/other devices, and the need to minimize distractions in the classroom. \n

Devices can be valuable tools for learning and communication, but they can also disrupt the educational environment if not managed appropriately. Parents are rightly concerned with the ability to contact their children in the event of an emergency \u2014 in the era of increased school violence, I understand this concern. \n

Carroll County Public Schools should implement a modern policy that allows devices to be used for educational purposes under teacher supervision, but restricts use and access during instructional time for non-academic activities. I will advocate for clearer guidelines on when/how devices can be used at school, and the consequences for violation of this policy. \n

Responsible technology use must also be reinforced at home, so educators can effectively monitor and respond to inappropriate device use while sustaining a focused learning environment.", "

Ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students is a top priority, and I believe we should continuously assess and update our safety measures. One area for improvement is the enhancement of mental health support and preventive strategies, which are proven to reduce the risk of both school violence and self-harm behaviors. By focusing on early intervention and providing students with the resources they need to manage stress, anxiety and other challenges, we can prevent many safety issues before they escalate. \n

I will work to create a culture of respect and mutual accountability at all levels in Carroll County Public Schools and support ongoing partnerships with local law enforcement to ensure that our schools are well-prepared for any potential threats. The Board of Education must maintain open lines of communication with parents and the community to build trust and make certain that everyone is informed and involved in keeping our schools safe.", "Books should be carefully curated by educational professionals, such as media specialists and teachers, who are trained to assess whether materials are developmentally appropriate and align with educational goals. While there may be rare instances where a book is deemed unsuitable for the school library, these decisions should be based on clear, consistent criteria focused on educational value, not on censorship or ideological preferences. \n\nThe decision to remove a book should be made through a transparent process involving educators, administrators, and, when appropriate, with input from parents and students. I will work to ensure such decisions are made thoughtfully, considering the educational needs of every student. We must respect students' freedom to read developmentally appropriate materials that reflect accurate history and diverse viewpoints, and support parents\u2019 right to limit their own child\u2019s access to material they deem objectionable.\n", "

School policies that allow transgender and gender nonconforming students to use their preferred pronouns while withholding this information from their parents are complex and should be carefully considered. On one hand, schools have a duty to create a safe and supportive environment for all students, which includes respecting their gender identity. For some students, disclosing preferred pronouns to their parents could lead to rejection or direct harm, which schools must avoid for both legal and ethical reasons. \n

However, I also believe in the importance of partnership between schools and families. Parents play the most critical role in their children's lives\u2014their involvement is essential to a child\u2019s healthy mental, emotional, and physical development. Ideally, schools should work to build trust with students and parents, facilitating conversations that respect the student's privacy and identity while also keeping parents informed in a way that supports their child's safety and well-being.\n"], [28, "Carroll County", "Greg Malveaux", "y", "gregmalveaux.org", "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095474679804", "gregmalveaux4boe@gmail.com", "53", "Professor of English composition and literature and am the college-wide coordinator of study abroad at Montgomery College.\n", "A doctorate in education and administration from Morgan State University.", "As the father of a Carroll County public school student, I deeply care about the future of my son and all of the children in the current school system. I\u2019m a 25+-year educator and have seen firsthand the learning loss that has occurred with our students over the years. I want to bring curriculum that supports increased academic achievement to our students. I believe that we need to get back to basics and focus on traditional curriculum \u2014 math, reading, science and writing, as well as physical education, art, music and languages. With a strong educational foundation, our children will have pathways for future success with a trade, admission to college, or access into the workforce right out of high school. I am also running for the board because school safety and classroom disruptions are a major concern. There\u2019s been a major increase in physical altercations amongst our elementary school students. I will push for policies that give teachers and administrators authority to address disruptive student behavior in the classroom. Also, I am running for the board to help retain local control, and I support opt-out classes when state-mandated curriculum misses the mark for values held by Carroll County citizens. Also, I understand that many of our residents are struggling in these difficult economic times, and I want to be very watchful, while on the board, that no needless spending occurs for Carroll County taxpayers. Every taxpayer dollar must be carefully accounted for.", "I am a lifelong Maryland resident, and a 25+-year educator with a doctorate in education and administration. I have taught students in grades kindergarten-8, and currently do so in grades 9-12 through a dual enrollment program; my teaching experience has given me a strong understanding for curriculum development and educational delivery. I am honored by the great outreach of support that I have received from Carroll County Public School teachers and educators during this campaign. In addition, I am an administrator coordinating study abroad for an institution that serves 60,000 students. I\u2019ve managed significant budgets and tailored curriculum for students. I am also the proud father of a Carroll County public school student, and I serve on the parent-teacher organization at my son\u2019s school. A majority of our elected officials, including legislators, commissioners, law enforcement, county Board of Education members and mayors support me. I am proud of the fact that all of these supporters recognize my values, priorities and initiatives as beneficial for helping our children, Carroll County schools, families, teachers and school administrators \u2014 not to mention Carroll County taxpayers. With having established a strong rapport with community leaders and elected officials, starting on Day 1 with the board, I would be ready to learn from, and work collectively with, others to meet the challenges facing our schools. ", "There are a couple major issues of importance facing our school board, and since one is not more important than the other, I would like to address both. First, we have a pandemic of physical altercations and class disruptions occurring in our elementary schools. School safety is a great concern. If elected to the board, I would advocate for preventative measures to be put in place, including manageable classroom sizes, parental involvement, a major presence of security resource officers and using student mentors; in addition, I would support legislation to empower teachers and administrators with classroom behavior issues. To curb bullying and classroom distractions, I would also call for minimal cellphone presence in school. An equally important issue in our schools is the need to get back to basics. We must raise student academic achievement by refocusing on traditional curriculum \u2014 reading, writing, math and science. A strong educational foundation will provide our students future pathways to college entrance, a trade or a career right out of high school. This can be achieved by creating opportunities for our students. Students can work with local businesses to take part in internship opportunities, with local trade unions that give instruction in a classroom setting, with local tutoring businesses to provide additional learning outside of school or assistance with homework, and participate with nonprofit organizations with members who visit student classes.", "I can recall my time in 10th grade when I desired academic and social change. I had always done well in the public school setting, but at this particular time, at this particular place, I still felt a need to alter my academic approach. I would go on to spend a few years at a Montessori school and came to greatly admire the Italian educator, Maria Montessori, who had developed the Montessori educational approach. As a hands-on learner who did not necessarily learn everything at the same pace as others, I embraced the self-directed learning environment and the principles that fostered independence and personal growth. I am the product of both a public school and Montessori model, and admire the vision of the educator, Maria Montessori. I would like to carry on her creativity and ingenuity in meeting the individual needs of each student in the public school system. ", "The Blueprint brings both benefits and challenges for Carroll County Public Schools. With considering benefits, it will increase the minimum teacher salary to $60,000 by 2026. However, I wish that our full-time education support professionals had been included in the plan. Other positive initiatives include bringing additional mental health professionals and support staff in school; assisting students with multiple tracks in high school that lead to college, a technical trade or immediate entry into the workforce; and offering pre-kindergarten services to young learners. However, challenges also come with the Blueprint. There will be great difficulty in assuring all of its initiatives are funded and I commit to working alongside state and local government leaders to find ways we can meet many, if not all, of these provisions. Specific challenges that come with the Blueprint include its 60/40 teaching mandate. As a result, Carroll and other school districts in Maryland will have a difficult time finding highly qualified teachers to fill the gaps created by this mandate, and there will be an immense cost (over $20 million annually) to hire additional staff and assure fair wages and benefits for these new employees. We also need to be concerned with the fact that uncertified teachers have risen in excess of 20%. I share some concerns with our commissioners in Carroll County concerning the Blueprint, and as a board member I would work with them to find solutions that best serve the county needs while ensuring that we spend every taxpayer dollar wisely and effectively.", "I support the new limits being placed on cellphones in middle and high schools. I understand parents\u2019 concerns that cellphones be allowed in school in case of emergency situations. However, cellphones should not be present during class periods, during class change, and at lunch where important socialization can occur. Our teachers and staff agree. In a recent survey done in Carroll County Public Schools, nearly two out of three teachers and staff related that middle school students should not have access to cellphones during lunch, and well over half noted that high school students should not have access to cellphones during class change. Overall, less cellphone use in school tends to lead to less bullying and classroom disruptions, and brings an increase in student academic success and socialization. ", "Carroll County has one of the safest school systems in the state, and I hope to keep it that way. It is essential for every student, no matter their race, ethnicity, economic background or orientation, to be given a safe and healthy learning environment. This occurs with having preventative measures in place, including a reduction in cellphones to reduce intimidation and classroom disruptions. In addition, peer mentoring can improve mental health for students and create greater social bonds between students. Also, school officials and parents need to be cautious with the type of learning apps that are downloaded on children\u2019s laptops. Security resource officers bring safety and mentorship to schools, particularly in middle and high schools. In addition, our schools need to actively engage with outside groups that address school safety, such as \u201cBee a Rae of Sunshine Foundation,\u201d which focuses on bullying and youth mental health issues. ", "For decades I\u2019ve taught literature, including African American literature, that has continuously challenged students to delve into difficult subject matter and historic occurrences. The material applies to that class\u2019s themes and objectives. The quality of the book, and not the race, ethnicity or orientation of the author, determines the work\u2019s presence in the curriculum. I also know that books taught in my college-level class may not be age-appropriate material for middle school students or their school libraries. I support Carroll County Education Association\u2019s stance to not condone materials that are sexually gratuitous in nature, and I support the removal of such books from school libraries. It is very important that we follow federal, state, and local laws that restrict a student\u2019s access to age-inappropriate materials. I appreciate the service and experience of librarians and staff to ensure we present students with ideal learning resources that increase rigor and challenge critical thinking.", "I support all children, no matter their race, orientation or economic status. No child should be intimidated or bullied. I will make sure this remains the case for every student. It is important for all students to be respected and accommodated within reason. Preferred pronouns and gender ID labeling can create confusion. This is why I support the current Board of Education\u2019s stance that a meeting between student, teacher and parent be made to approve the new pronoun or gender identification for the student. This way, everyone is on the same page. Research shows that students excel more when parents are involved in school. Transparency between school staff, the student and parents assist with this. "], [29, "Carroll County", "Kristen Zihmer", "y", "null", "null", "zihmerforcarroll@gmail.com", "38", "Small business owner, certified senior advisor.", "Bachelor's degree, Salisbury University.", "I am running for the Carroll County Board of Education because I am deeply committed to maintaining Carroll County as one of the best places in the nation to start and raise a family. As a conservative lifelong resident, mother of two, small business owner and active community member, I believe in the importance of education that reflects our community's values. I am passionate about ensuring that our schools continue to provide a strong foundation for our children's futures, where they can grow, learn and prepare for successful careers. My goal is to uphold the family and community values that make our county exceptional.", "

My candidacy for the school board is grounded in both my experience and a deep commitment to upholding strong educational values. With over 15 years of success in business as an owner and manager, I understand how to:\n

-Set budgets and allocate resources.\n

-Meet regulatory obligations. \n

-Establish collaborative relationships.\n

-Pursue strategic goals.\n

Serving as president of the parent/teacher association, I find myself immersed in my children\u2019s school, and I am loving my experience there as I gain keen insights into educators\u2019 needs and the needs of parents and students alike. Other community leadership roles, both past and present, have also provided me with valuable core skill sets, experience and insight directly applicable to service on the school board. Such roles include:\n

-President of the Board of the Senior Provider Information Network.\n

-Executive board member for Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County. \n

-Committee member for The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll. \n

-Committee member for the Youth Service Bureau's Philanthropy Committee. \n

These experiences make me uniquely qualified to serve effectively on the school board, where thoughtful decision-making and collaborative leadership are paramount.", "I believe that the most critical issue facing our school board is the prioritization of academic achievement and rigor in our schools. The recent 2023-2024 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program results reveal that only 64.8% of Carroll County students are proficient in English Language Arts and just 37.7% are proficient in mathematics. Although Carroll County ranks among the top three counties in the state in these categories, these figures nevertheless indicate significant room for improvement. It is my conviction that every decision made by the school board should prioritize the enhancement of academic excellence to ensure that all students reach their full potential.", "

I admire Ronald Reagan, the president of the United States from 1981 to 1989. He played a pivotal role in revitalizing conservatism during the mid-to-late 20th century by advocating for smaller government, lower taxes and free-market economics. His economic policies were instrumental in curbing inflation and stimulating economic growth, leaving a lasting impact on the U.S. economy.\n

Reagan's leadership was also crucial in the peaceful resolution of the Cold War. His firm stance against the Soviet Union, combined with strategic diplomatic efforts, helped bring an end to this prolonged global conflict. Often referred to as \u201cThe Great Communicator,\u201d Reagan's optimistic vision and effective communication skills restored national confidence and reignited a sense of American pride.", "I believe that the Blueprint for Maryland's Future imposes unnecessary constraints on local control and autonomy, particularly in counties like Carroll that consistently perform among the best in the state. I advocate for empowering local elected officials to design and implement education plans tailored to their respective communities, within their own budgets. I am optimistic after Gov. Wes Moore's recent comments in an interview with Fox45, wherein he acknowledged the need for adjustments to the Blueprint\u2019s implementation and emphasized the importance of a plan with broad support and a feasible financial pathway.", "The National Institutes of Health has found that heavy smartphone use among adolescents contributes to chronic sleep deprivation, poor academic performance and impaired cognitive and socio-emotional functioning. I am a strong advocate for making our schools cellphone-free zones. I fully support an \u201coff and away\u201d policy, respected and supported by parents and uniformly enforced by all school administrators, teachers and staff.", "I support full funding and the potential expansion of Sheriff James T. DeWees\u2019s nationally recognized Student Resource Officer program, as well as the efforts of Carroll County Public Schools\u2019 Security and Emergency Management Department. I am grateful for the critical role these programs play in ensuring the safety and security of our students, teachers and staff. ", "

I fully support students\u2019 ability to access supplemental materials representing multiple viewpoints and their right to be taught academic subjects from varying perspectives. When materials are open to question, I default to parental consent. \n

Regarding books that are sexually explicit in nature, I would state unequivocally that I do not condone materials that are sexually gratuitous in nature or feature extreme sexual content, including graphic depictions of sex and/or rape, in our school libraries.", "Parents should be fully informed about everything happening at school involving their child. There should NEVER be a situation where information is withheld from parents."]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 4, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["rowid", "County", "Name", "Answered", "Website", "Facebook", "Email", "Age", "Employment", "Education", "Q1 why", "Q2 good candidate", "Q3 important issue", "Q4 public leader", "Q5 blueprint", "Q6 cellphone", "Q7 safety", "Q8 books", "Q9 trans"], "primary_keys": [], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select rowid, County, Name, Answered, Website, Facebook, Email, Age, Employment, Education, [Q1 why], [Q2 good candidate], [Q3 important issue], [Q4 public leader], [Q5 blueprint], [Q6 cellphone], [Q7 safety], [Q8 books], [Q9 trans] from candidates where \"County\" = :p0 order by rowid limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Carroll County"}}, "facet_results": {}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 18.29952899993259}