Reddy, Subba - Jackson Public Schools
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
When I came to the United States, I completed my high school education at Jackson High School. Teachers prepared me not only for the next level of my education, it also prepared me for cultural diversity and the transition to young adulthood. Today I have obtained my
Bachelor's Degree (MSU), am a contributing member of our community, and a coach for JPS. My children attend Jackson Public Schools, because I believe they are obtaining and will continue to attain a quality education.
I desire to contribute to the very district that has contributed to my personal and family successes.
Endorsements
As of Sep 17th, 2024, None.
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
As of Sep 17th, 2024, None.
Facebook - Subba Reddy For JPS School Board
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?
Talk to parents/families at open house, Parent Teacher conferences, fun nights, empower parent liaison for parent community outreach opportunities, use survey data to take action on key initiatives, inform parents of budgets via Title I meetings, school board meetings, facilities and finance meetings, principal chats. People simply want to be treated with respect and dignity and never ignored or mistreated.
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
The school district has a handbook that is open to all to review and ask questions. School administrators have discretion on discipline however they must consider the seven mandatory factors before suspending. Discipline is for the purpose of changing behavior, and effective restorative practices enable effective and equitable change in behavior, for all involved.
Restorative practices are very effective, especially when all stakeholders are present. Having additional check-ins and checkout as a follow up to the restorative meeting is valuable to keep ongoing open communication while restating clear and consistent expectations. A critical part for teachers is having behavioral support in the classroom/school so they can teach with minimal disruption to the learning environment.
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
Leverage community resources with community partnerships such Center for Family Health Department of Health and Human Services, and Jackson County Health Department. JPS Counselors and social workers are supporting teacher’s efforts in the classroom with check-ins, small groups and school-wide prevention and awareness campaigns. Schoolwide campaigns such as OK2Say, Most Teens Don’t and review of MiPhy data are great action steps. Allowing for student voice and treating all students with respect lend themselves to a healthy school environment. Additionally, creating a school environment where students respect one another, teachers respect one another, and students and teachers interact in a respectful manner is essential to a mentally healthy school community.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
Increasing Black student achievement is imperative. We should take a look at what other schools are doing that are finding success. Training for teachers is essential. Creating clubs and groups with the support of community leaders is a practice that is working. Celebrate the great things that our African American students are doing locally. Ask the students and create youth voice opportunities for students to be a part of the process. Visit a high poverty high performing school in Michigan. Some schools already have some best practices in place. This could be a valuable learning experience for our administrators and teachers. This is a great opportunity to engage our community that is filled with positive minority role models that can support schools and mentor students.
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?
When all students are treated fairly, respectfully, and with dignity all families will experience a safe school environment where all voices matter. The relationships should be a first priority. Not sure if everyone is going to be happy all of the time, however, the mission and vision of JPS is for all regardless of background. It takes listening to many voices and a deep understanding of both The Community of Jackson and JPS school system to be effective at the task. Remove any barriers whatever they may be.
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?
Jackson Public Schools prides itself in providing a diverse cultural experience for all students. Recruitment and retention of all staff is essential. Recruitment and retention of staff comes best from those inside the school system of JPS. They are the best at telling our story because they have these lived experiences. Teachers want to feel valued and supported so any way the district can say thank you and show appreciation will go a long way. Having a fair and competitive contract is important to teachers. PTO's are another good way to retain teachers because good active PTO come alongside the teachers and make the job easier, and they feel appreciated. Teachers of color want to work with others like themselves. Creating affinity or support groups where people can feel connected, valued and supported is key. Make an extra effort to recruit your own alumni to return to the community that helped to educate them is a bonus. Sometimes you just have to ask, and that will be enough.