McPhail, James - St. Charles
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
My family and I have a strong connection to St. Charles Schools. My wife and I, along with two of our children, are proud graduates of St. Charles, and our youngest son is currently a senior who will be graduating next spring. We have always been residents of the St. Charles School District.
I grew up in Brant and moved to the village 23 years ago after my wife and I took custody of our nephew. Upon enrolling him in Scouts, I stepped forward to volunteer as there was a need for leaders. This experience was rewarding, leading me to roles such as T-Ball coach, den leader, assistant soccer coach, and assistant youth football coach, despite my initial lack of knowledge in organized sports. If your children are interested in organized sports, you learn sports.
Additionally, I have served as an appointed and then elected Trustee for the Village of St. Charles Council and as an elected member of the Tri-Township Fire Board.
Endorsements
I have received endorsements from friends, family, and members of the school district who believe I would be a strong fit for this position. I did not actively seek this role with the intention of requesting endorsements; rather, I was approached by community members who encouraged me to consider representing our shared interests and values. My focus is on serving the community effectively and addressing its needs.
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
The St. Charles School District community, consisting of family, friends, and neighbors, has supported my campaign by providing the signatures needed to place my name on the ballot and encouragement to run for a school board seat. We have neither asked for or received financial contributions. My goal is to earn a seat on the school board to represent their interests and needs with respect and dedication.
N/A
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?
Engaging and including parents, caregivers, community members, and students in decision-making is essential for creating a supportive and collaborative educational environment.
I would encourage them to participate in the discussion by attending school board meetings, and by reaching out to teachers and staff with questions and concerns. I would ask students and district members make an effort to be a part of the process.
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 that school discipline should be fair, consistent, and focused on creating a safe and respectful learning environment. It’s important that discipline policies are clearly communicated to students, parents, and staff, and that they are enforced equitably across the district.
Discipline in the schools and at school functions should be consistent and designed to maintain order and respect within the school environment. Clear rules and consequences are essential for ensuring that students understand the boundaries and the importance of personal responsibility. While fairness is crucial, it's also important to maintain high standards of behavior to ensure that all students have a safe and focused learning environment.
While restorative practices have their place, I believe they should complement, not replace, traditional disciplinary measures.
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
Improving student mental health is a critical priority that requires a comprehensive and proactive approach. First and foremost, it's essential to create a supportive school environment where students feel safe, valued, and understood. It’s important to emphasize personal responsibility and resilience, encouraging students to develop coping skills that will help them navigate challenges. Schools should provide access to counselors and mental health resources while also encouraging parents to be actively involved in their children's well-being.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
To improve student achievement in all districts and across Michigan, it is essential to provide all students—regardless of race, color, religion, or gender—with equal access to high-quality educational resources and opportunities. Every student should be held to the same high standards and supported in reaching their full potential through rigorous academic programs, effective teaching, and strong support systems.
I believe in fostering a culture of personal responsibility, where students are encouraged to take ownership of their education. This means providing them with the tools they need to succeed, such as access to well-trained teachers, up-to-date learning materials, and a safe, conducive learning environment. By ensuring that all students are taught and treated equally, we can create a level playing field where every student has the opportunity to excel.
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?
Ensuring that all students and their families feel safe and included in our district starts with a commitment to providing equal opportunities and access to high-quality education for everyone, regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, disability, religion, or income status. Every student deserves the same academic standards and learning materials, tailored when necessary to meet their individual needs, but always delivered with fairness and consistency.
It’s crucial to foster a school environment where every student feels respected and valued, while also emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility, accountability, and ownership of their education. By maintaining high expectations for all students and offering the necessary support to help them succeed, we create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Ultimately, our goal is to prepare all students to become responsible, well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society.
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?
The recruitment and retention of staff, including staff of color, should be based on merit and qualifications, in accordance with the principles outlined in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is essential to focus on hiring the most qualified candidates who can best meet the needs of our students and contribute to the district’s goals and to the education of our children.
To attract and retain top talent, we must offer competitive pay, benefits, and a positive working environment that supports professional growth and development. By ensuring that all candidates, regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, disability, or religion, are given equal consideration and opportunities, we can build a strong, diverse, and effective team that is dedicated to providing the highest quality education for our students.