Board Member — Durham Unified School District

I am a parent to two Durham students and have nieces/nephews in this wonderful district. I am a proud Durham High Alumni, a retired teacher and Administrator with over 40 years experience in education. 

Poor communication, lack of long-range budget planning, providing for expansion, repairs, and big-ticket purchases (i.e. Buses/buildings) must be addressed. At this point there is no plan in place, it is currently a matter of addressing problems as they arise. Many of these buildings, primarily portables, are in need of revamping. 

Our goal as a community is to provide a solid education for our students, creating more opportunities for their future, maintaining high academic standards, providing quality vocational and technical skills. We cannot do this while in contention, knowing a real strike is at hand. As a board member, I would offer to sit at the bargaining table with the teachers to resolve this issue. I don't believe at this point attorneys representing the board is the solution to resolve the strike issue. 

I believe we have the ability to develop a strong master plan, apply for grants using skilled professionals in-house, not contracted through the county, and allow our teachers to get back to doing what they love.  

My door will always be open to you and I would appreciate your vote!