Williams, Tabitha - Jackson Public Schools
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
I am currently the AFL-CIO Community Service Labor Liaison with United Way for South Central Michigan. My roots in the Jackson community run deep, having been born and raised in Jackson County and proudly attending Jackson Senior High School as an alumna. I am deeply committed to this community, which I have called home. My husband and I, married for 18 years, are raising three wonderful children: twin 10-year-olds who attend Sharp Park Academy and a 16-year-old junior currently enrolled in SCMV. What sets me apart in this race is my extensive background in leadership, strategic planning, and community advocacy. My experience in budgeting and financial oversight will ensure that our school resources are used efficiently and responsibly. I am skilled in problem-solving and crisis management, which will be invaluable for addressing any challenges our district faces. Moreover, my background in customer service and communication equips me to listen to and address the concerns of parents, students, and staff effectively. I am committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students and families within our district.
Endorsements
IUPAT Local 514, IBEW 252, Huron Valley Area Labor Federation
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
IUPAT Local 514
NA
How would you engage and include parents, caregivers, community members and students in decision-making in your district around things like curriculum, budgeting and district policy?
The first step is to get out into the community and create spaces where people feel their opinions matter, fostering open dialogue and communication. To involve parents, caregivers, community members, and students in decisions about curriculum, budgeting, and district policy, we should actively engage the diverse JPS community. This means hosting community events, town hall meetings, and informal gatherings to gather feedback from all groups. By partnering with local organizations and using various communication methods—like social media and newsletters—we can connect with more people and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard. Understanding the role and impact of the school board is crucial, as its decisions directly affect students and families. This approach will create a more inclusive decision-making process that accurately reflects the needs and priorities of our community, leading to more effective and impactful policies.
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
As a mother of three, I believe that school discipline should be fair and constructive, focusing on helping students learn from their mistakes rather than just punishing them. I support restorative practices because they address the root causes of behavior, encourage accountability, and help rebuild relationships, which I feel would be beneficial for my children and create a more positive school environment.
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
To improve student mental health, we should increase access to counseling, integrate mental health education into the curriculum, create a supportive school environment, and engage families and community organizations. This approach can help break down the stigma around seeking help, ensuring that students receive the support they need and fostering their overall well-being.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
To improve Black student achievement in our district and across Michigan schools, we must focus on implementing culturally responsive teaching practices, ensuring equitable access to resources, and fostering strong community and family engagement. We need to update the curriculum to include diverse perspectives, offer targeted academic support and mentorship, address systemic barriers to equity, and engage families and community organizations. By focusing on these areas, we can create a more supportive environment that helps Black students succeed and reach their full potential.
What are your thoughts on how to ensure that all students and their families, regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, disability, religion, income status, etc., feel safe and included in your district?
I believe that the most effective way to ensure that all students and their families feel safe and included in our district is by creating a school board that truly reflects the diversity of our community. Representation matters deeply; when the school board mirrors the demographics of the district, it fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that diverse perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes.
What are your thoughts on how to recruit and retain staff, particularly staff of color, in your district with regard to pay, benefits, and working conditions?
To effectively recruit and retain diverse staff, we must focus on offering competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, creating an inclusive and supportive working environment, and fostering career development. We have to ensure that we promote work-life balance. We as a district have to work to continue to build a culture of diversity and inclusion, address biases, and celebrate differences.