PRIORITIES

Grand Rapids Public Schools belongs to our entire community, and its success depends on all of us.

I will work to strengthen relationships among scholars, families, educators, schools, neighborhood organizations, businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders. By listening to one another, building trust, and creating meaningful partnerships, we can expand opportunities for scholars and strengthen the district for generations to come.

Creating Access

Every scholar deserves access to opportunities that allow them to discover their strengths, pursue their interests, and prepare for what comes next. I will advocate for strong academic programs, meaningful extracurricular experiences, student supports, and clear pathways to college, careers, and lifelong success.

Creating access also means recognizing where barriers exist and working together to remove them. A scholar’s background, neighborhood, or circumstances should never determine the opportunities available to them.

Advancing Educational Equity

Every scholar deserves the opportunity to thrive, but achieving that requires recognizing that students may need different resources and supports to succeed.

I will approach decisions with equity at the forefront, asking who is being served, who may be overlooked, and where disparities still exist. That means supporting inclusive learning environments, directing resources where they are needed most, and ensuring every scholar feels seen, valued, supported, and capable of success.

Supporting Educators

Great schools depend on great educators and staff. Supporting the people who work with our scholars every day is essential to creating classrooms where students can learn, grow, and thrive.

I will listen to educators and advocate for the resources, professional learning, tools, and working conditions they need to do their best work. Supporting educators also means valuing their expertise and ensuring their voices are part of the decisions that affect their classrooms and students.