Candidate Q&A

If you have kids – Do they attend or have they graduated from IPS schools? If not, where do/did they attend?

3 sons | 2 at CFI-27 | 1 Freshman at Herron High School (Previously at Broad Ripple MS/ Sidener Academy, and CFI-70)

What prompted you to run this year?

I decided to run because I believe our public schools and basic public infrastructure are facing serious challenges, in part because of the impact of SB -1 and the funding pressures it has created. I know my professional experience has prepared me to be a strong advocate and effective conduit for our schools, helping protect the resources we have while working to improve outcomes for students, families, and educators.

What is the most pressing student needs issue facing the district? How will you address it?

The most pressing need is ensuring every student has the academic, mental-health, and basic supports they need to succeed. I would address this by directing resources to schools with the greatest needs, expanding tutoring and counseling, supporting teachers, and partnering with community organizations. Most importantly, I would listen to students, families, and educators and hold the district accountable for measurable results.

What area of academics do you think the district needs to focus on and why?

The district needs to focus on improving literacy and foundational academic skills. Strong reading and writing skills are the foundation for success in every other subject and are critical to long-term student outcomes. We need to identify learning gaps earlier, strengthen tutoring and intervention, and make sure every student has the support they need to reach grade-level expectations.

As Indianapolis education begins this new phase with the addition of IPEC, how should the board approach its relationship with IPEC?

The board should approach its relationship with IPEC as a true partnership focused on the betterment of all students across the district. We should communicate openly, share resources and best practices, and work collaboratively to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education and the opportunities they deserve.

Do you support the IPEC referendum and the rate? Why or why not?

Yes, I support the IPEC referendum and the proposed rate. SB-1 has negatively impacted revenue available to our school district and local governments. It is unfortunate that legislation reduced operating funds that communities had previously relied on, leaving local leaders to find ways to restore those resources. I believe the referendum is an important step toward protecting the resources our schools need to serve students effectively.

IPS recently made budget cuts and will need to make more cuts even if the referendum passes. What will be your approach to budget cut decisions? Are there other ways IPS can bring in money beyond the referendum?

My approach would be to protect the classroom first. Budget decisions should be guided by their direct impact on students, teachers, and school quality, with clear data and transparency throughout the process. Before cutting student-facing services, I would look for efficiencies, administrative savings, stronger partnerships, grants, and other revenue opportunities. The referendum is important, but IPS should also pursue every responsible option to diversify revenue and make sure every dollar is being used as effectively as possible.

How will you engage with the community if elected? What role will their feedback have in your decision making?

I will make community engagement a regular part of my work, not just something that happens during an election. I want to listen directly to students, parents, educators, and community members through school visits, community meetings, and accessible opportunities for feedback. Their experiences and concerns will directly inform my decision-making, because the best decisions are made when the people most affected have a meaningful voice in the process.

Outside money to fund campaigns has been a huge factor in previous IPS school board elections. Will you accept any donations from outside special interest groups? Why or why not?

I believe local races like school board should primarily be funded by the community and local stakeholders. If approached by an outside organization, I would have a conversation with them to understand their motives and ensure there is alignment between their values and my vision for IPS. Those conversations would inform my decision about whether to accept their support, and I would always prioritize transparency and accountability to the voters.