Saline Area Schools

Currently the Board considers input from stakeholders at public comment, through email, and from Advisory Committees like SEAC, SEAB, DEIAC, Wellness, et al. The district also regularly seeks feedback through surveys and focus groups, and it offers the “Let’s Talk” option for more direct questions. Moving forward, I would encourage more regular educational workshops/trainings (e.g. authors, screenings, presentations) or even town hall meetings.

In addition to all that the Board and the district already does, as a Trustee, I would make myself available to meet with our students, families, teachers, staff, admin, and the greater community. I believe that traditional in-person conversations are the tried-and-true way to learn about what’s important to stakeholders.

I highly value input from families, students, staff and community members in our District. Whether in policy work or otherwise, I always seek input, especially from those who are directly impacted by the decisions being made.

In 2021, I introduced the Transgender and Nonbinary Students Policy, and worked directly with parents who have transgender and nonbinary children to draft the language of the policy. Additionally, I requested input from LGBTQ+ students and organizations (i.e. Gender and Sexuality Alliance). More broadly, I have brought the perspectives of the Board’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee to the board table, as well as echoed comments spoken during public comment. I truly believe that the voices of people who have been marginalized should be represented at all stages of decision-making.

I think discussion of ideas and diversity of thought and opinion are essential to crafting exceptional experiences for students. Aside from encouraging more parent involvement in board meetings, school activities, and classroom participation, I would love to explore periodic, informal discussions where parents and stakeholders can discuss ideas around what can make our district better and more engaging.

I am available to parents and stakeholders in many ways. First, through public comment at official Saline school board meetings, but also through phone calls, email and discussions with individuals when out in the community.

When it comes to curriculum, budgeting and district policy, decisions are most often driven by the individual to whom the issue would be most impacted. Whether that be parents, caregivers, community members, students, or staff, I welcome expertise when making decisions. I will listen. I will seek input.