WHY I'M RUNNING

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I am excited to be running for reelection to the Lakewood Board of Education. I will continue the fight for public education and strive to maintain the robust academic program, flourishing music and arts curriculum, forward-looking Career Tech opportunities, and access to health and wellness services we provide.

My focus has not changed since I was first elected; it is on the children of Lakewood—no matter where they live, where they came from, their age, or their individual needs. Each child deserves a school in which they find encouragement, opportunity and belonging. I am most proud of my work with educators and my fellow board members to create these learning environments. 

I believe I bring the perspective needed to defend our schools against the unprecedented attacks on public education and local control at both the State and Federal levels of government.

I have demonstrated the ability to respond thoughtfully and objectively when considering serious challenges including the safety and security of our students and staff, significant enrollment changes, and state and local policy changes impacting student and parental rights. 

I am running because I am dedicated to embracing and celebrating the
diversity we find in our schools and community and in providing each of our students the support and services required to enable them to take advantage of the opportunities available to them. Every child deserves to be who they are and to thrive. 

I am running for reelection with a continued commitment to making the best use of the resources - human, financial, and physical - at our disposal in order to provide for children, no matter their neighborhood, grade, or ability.

I am running to ensure financial responsibility and respect for the Lakewood property taxpayers who shoulder 60% of the tax burden because the state of Ohio has never fulfilled its constitutional responsibility. This means asking difficult questions and making hard decisions as a board member in order to maintain our unique and comprehensive programs.

What makes the Lakewood Schools great is what happens inside of our classrooms, in our auditoriums, on our fields, and throughout the community.

Being an effective board member requires a commitment to moving the district forward when significant changes impact us. It means being resilient and considering all possible options to be prepared for the future. It means maintaining engagement with the community.

I am running to continue sound decision-making based on educational goals and the expertise of educators. I will continue to support the excellent teachers, administrators, and district staff members who work tirelessly and creatively, despite consistently being asked to do more.

I have been so fortunate to serve Lakewood, and I would be honored to continue this important work on behalf of the Lakewood community.

Betsy