Comments and Questions for School Board from Portland District 3.
During my many recent door-to-door visits with Portland District 3 residents I’ve learned that there is one clear expectation from nearly everyone I’ve spoken with.
People want their children - all children - to have the very best education possible.
This being the first time I’ve ever run for office, I find the most rewarding part of campaigning is to listen and learn. Portland residents, I’ve discovered, have strong and varied opinions on behavior, curriculum and finances and there’s no specific demographic that feels a particular way. But, they do agree on one thing - they all want the best possible education for the students who attend Portland Public Schools
Overall the questions and comments they pose focus on the learning experience of the individual student.
What knowledge and skills are being taught?
Are the students actually learning them?
Do students know how to find information?
Can they determine if it is useful knowledge?
Can students write and speak clearly?
Are they respectful, but willing to speak up when something isn’t right?
Ultimately, knowing our children will be ready to contribute to the community is very important to us all.
Residents have also shared with me how little they know about what’s going on. Some new parents have expressed frustration because they can’t find pertinent information. Others didn’t realize how Portland Adult Education empowers new Mainers to be active and productive citizens.
Finally, residents/taxpayers want to know their taxes are making a positive difference. A question I’m often asked is, “Why is the price of a Portland Public School education going up when there is no evidence that students are learning more?
Portland’s District 3 residents are aware of the diversity of cultures within the student body and the challenges these students face. I’ve had conversations with many residents who tell me students of diverse cultures and/or color need support and understanding. At the same time they want each and every student to be given an equal opportunity, to be treated fairly and to be given respect.
Portland’s District 3 residents want to know if, and how the school board is addressing the questions they raise. My conversations with residents tell me they are supportive of all students. What they want to know is “what actions the School Board will take to ensure each student has the best outcome”.
As a former educator, I have first hand experience on how to improve student outcomes, support faculty and staff, and be a responsible steward. If elected, you can count on me to do everything in my power to provide clear answers to all the questions and concerns raised by the kind people of Portland’s District 3.
