Castleberry, Elizabeth - Vicksburg
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
My name is Elizabeth Castleberry and I am honored to run for the Vicksburg Community Schools Board of Education. I currently have one daughter who will be in our schools next year. She is my inspiration for running. I am a librarian of 14 years and have my Master's degree in Library and Information Studies. To me, learning is a lifelong journey. I believe that all students should have the social and emotional support they need to foster learning and personal growth. Strong communication is key to ensure our schools remain welcoming and productive. Students must feel safe and accepted. This leads to an environment conducive to learning.
I have been endorsed by the Vicksburg Education Association (VEA) and the Electrical Workers Union 131.
My policy priorities are:
1. Respect for all students, regardless of background.
2. The freedom and right to read.
3. Competitive salaries for teachers.
4. Increased early literacy initiatives.
I am confident that my personal and professional experiences have prepared me to serve on the VCS board of education, and I hope to have your support
Endorsements
Received Vicksburg Education Association (teacher's union), Michigan Education Association and Union 131 Electrical workers. I have been nominated to be endorsed by Kzoo Co. Democratic Party.
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
Vicksburg Education Association
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?
Invite them to school board meetings. The more I am known around town and at school functions, the more people I'll connect with and have a listening hear to their concerns.
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
I believe restorative practices can teach our students empathy and kindness. They can be taught they have the agency to solve problems themselves too.
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
Appropriate funding and staff must be in place to help our student's during this mental health crisis.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
Students should be able to see themselves in everyday life, including at school. I would like to see more teachers of color hired and retained. I'd also like to see the school curriculum include black authors and black representation more.
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?
Appropriate DEI training for staff can be key towards including all of our students. I believe that school administration and the school board should also be trained in DEI practices and learn from other districts about inclusion.
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?
Competitive salaries and good benefits can go a long way in recruiting and retaining quality educators. A healthy work environment is also important. Staff want an administration that takes their needs and concerns to heart and hears them out. In regards to staff of color, make sure they feel valued and have their unique contributions acknowledged. Anti-bias training could be implemented too. I'd also say providing opportunities for further education or career growth to be important as well.