Issues

I have been an active parent and community representative for 20 years in St Paul, and have accomplished much through collaboration.  Along with Loretta Gagnon and Sheila WhiteEagle, I helped to create the All Nations Magnet School and the American Indian Family Center and am very proud of the work we do and the positive difference we make in the lives of many families.  I also chaired our Indian Education Parent Committee for 11 years and have first hand experience with my own four children, and others I have raised, on how positive parenting techniques improve family dynamics and academic growth.

Serving on the school board for the past 4 years has been a good and rewarding experience.  I particularly appreciate the opportunities I have had to change policy regarding identification of student ethnicity and language; bullying and racial harassment; Indian education standards; parent and family involvement; and teacher recruitment and hiring practices. Last spring I was chosen as President-elect of the National American Indian and Alaska Native School Board.  My record of achievement demonstrates my ability and confidence to serve at both the local and national levels. 

I was approved as chair of the school board in March and have successfully coordinated efforts to address the accelerated resignation of Superintendent Patricia Harvey, the selection of interim leadership and search consultants, adoption of the 2005-06 budget and the start of a new school year. 

It will be a major challenge to lead the board during this interim period and to set in place the most effective transition leadership.  I am prepared and motivated to provide a respected voice of experience as the board assumes its governance responsibilities, sharing insight and encouraging others, contributing human resources, advocating for all our students and making critical decisions about inclusive representation on district committees and site councils. 

During the September 13 primary election in St Paul, I received the largest number of votes on the ballot.  It is wonderful to know that each one represents a St Paul relationship.

I am dedicated to be a champion for children.  The dreams we have are greater than what I can do alone.  I ask you to join me in this vision.  Your support will help me remain a skilled leader in local government and your contribution will allow me to educate and nurture leaders for tomorrow here in St Paul and across the country.  I thank you in advance for your consideration and will do my best to remain worthy of your support.  We must work together to assure the strongest future for students and continue the tradition of educating a nation.