Frisco ISD is sought out by families across North Texas because of the longstanding tradition of academic excellence. All students should have access to opportunities and standards for success that encourage and facilitate their needs. This includes post-graduation goals. The curriculum experiments currently being implemented include waterfall grading, retesting without penalty, and the elimination/reduction of homework, to name a few. I propose that we reverse course in this regard and return to tried and true learning methods before our reputation of excellence is diluted or destroyed. It’s time to get back to the basics and focus on meeting our students by name and need again. 

Frisco ISD is losing good teachers to surrounding districts at an alarming rate. 600 teachers chose not to return to Frisco ISD for the 2021-2022 school year. This is a turnover rate of 13%. We can do better. Teachers have stated that the burdens put on them by the administration are too much and that they are experiencing burnout. This can be addressed with a strong engagement and retention plan, including hiring an outside consultant to conduct confidential engagement surveys, and both exit and stay interviews with our most valuable resource in Frisco, our teachers. My Human Resources background makes me uniquely qualified to tackle this issue. Additionally, I will work with teachers to ensure they have the tools and resources that they need from the school board. 

This year, Frisco ISD launched a pilot program in 8 middle schools referred to as “One Level ILA.” This program combines advanced and on-level ILA students in the same classrooms, essentially eliminating differentiated learning. The stated reason for this was “equitable practices” and an “inclusive environment.” There is nothing “equitable” about destroying the confidence of on level learners or holding advanced students back. The concept of equity is being implemented throughout the district and is a stated board priority. Equity means equality of outcome rather than equality of opportunity. I want to expand advanced learning opportunities for any student who wants to be challenged as well as preserve the learning environment for on-level students. 

Diversity is a valued and important aspect of the Frisco community. I will work to encourage diversity of thought in all Frisco classrooms. When we encourage diversity of thought, we create the next generation of critical thinkers. It’s important to teach students how to think, not what to think. Additionally, I will advocate for our classrooms to be free of all forms of bias.

I look forward to representing ALL Frisco community members by advocating for a return to the three minute time limit to address the Board and allowing public comments on non agenda items. Our district is better when we partner with our community members and hear from the amazing parents who have entrusted Frisco ISD with the education of their children. I will advocate to have ALL parents’ voices heard, especially those with whom I disagree. Finally, after elected, I will commit to having regular forums with parents to listen to their concerns. 

The Board of Trustees is accountable to the constituents. I will work to preserve the integrity of the intended organizational structure. Additionally, I will work to improve the transparency of district operations by advocating for more agenda items that impact students and/or teachers to be discussed openly in board meetings, rather than just presented and unanimously voted on. Healthy debate is critical in any organization.