Previous Offices Held
School Board for two terms – Elected fall 2020, fall 2023
Top Three Priorities
Seeing the construction of our new school through to completion, keeping the budget balanced and ensuring equity for all students
Why are you running?
I'm running to ensure that our students have an equitable experience at Saco Schools, seeing that staff are given meaningful raises while also being mindful of taxpayers with a balanced budget. Our middle school was neglected for many years and the Board has prioritized its improvements. In addition to the new school construction, keeping our eyes on what our future budgets will require from us helps us plan and not just react.
What is the biggest challenge facing your area’s schools? The biggest opportunity?
The Saco and Biddeford region is really becoming an educational hub for our state with Thornton Academy, the vocational center, the Ecology School, and UNE here. We have invested in our schools through grants to expand our STEM programming and create a more inclusive learning environment with the Best Buddies programming. As a Board member, I am proud that we have prioritized equity for all students. I applaud our administrative team and the fantastic teachers and staff who support our students.
A top issue for many parents is the age of Maine’s school infrastructure. How would you address this issue locally from your position on the school board?
In Saco, we're building two beautiful new schools: one locally funded and one state-funded. Our middle school will be our remaining structure and since my time on the Board, I have supported funding the repairs and improvements to the school, including a new roof, flooring, paint, furniture and kitchen equipment. It is important to plan for maintenance and improvements. The Board can not ignore the new buildings once they are completed, either.
Do you think the state government is too involved in local schooling? Not involved enough? The right amount of involved? Explain your answer.
I think the State is involved just the right amount. That being said, I think an overhaul in state subsidies and calculations is long overdue.