Urtel, Jennifer - South Lyon
Are you an incumbent?
I have been a resident in the district since 2010, both of my kids have attended SLCS schools. I am interested in the financial health of the district with strong academic progress along with social enrichment (clubs, athletics, camps, arts, extracurricular activities, etc)
Brief Intro of Candidate
Approachability, communication, discussion, attendance at functions
Endorsements
N/A
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
Yes
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?
I feel that school discipline is important and needed. All students need to feel safe in their school environment. SLCS has great SRO's at the middle / high school level and are very helpful in the daily life of the schools they are assigned. The students love them, they typically receive the most applause when introduced at functions. The SRO's genuinely care about the students and want to help them succeed in all aspects. The students can talk with them if they have any kind of concern and know the SRO will help in any way they can. I think restorative practice is a good way to head off potential escalating scenarios. They can also refer up the chain if progress is not being made
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
SLCS has increased our social worker staff to help with the student's mental health. It is and was a problem pre / post covid. The students know they have a safe place to go to talk or decompress. The district also has social / emotional dogs in many of our buildings, with the goal of having a dog in each building. The students and staff love them and light up when the dogs are making their rounds throughout the school or at after school activities.
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
Making sure the students know they are cared for and valued. Providing supports outside of the classroom for the students, including academic, social, athletic, art and extra curricular
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
General caring by all the staff in the district. Making sure the students feel included by having many choices of academic curriculum during the day, to after school choices (athletic, arts, clubs, etc). Giving each student an opportunity to find their passion.
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?
Providing the best possible working environment for all staff. SLCS is one of the lowest funded schools in the state, but, they strive to offer pay and benefits close to surrounding districts. The district is stable and growing. I feel that making sure the staff feel safe and valued are an important part of recruiting and retaining people.
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?
School Funding and Finance, Curriculum and overall student well being