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

Yes, I have 4. All for have graduated from IPS Portfolio schools (Broad Ripple, Shortridge, and Purdue Polytechnic – Englewood)

What prompted you to run this year?

I decided to run this year because I remain committed to public service and to fulfilling the responsibilities of the office I currently hold. During my time as a School Commissioner, I have gained additional experience and a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges affecting public education within the IPS boundaries. As this election cycle approached, I believed it was appropriate to file and continue serving, subject to the decision of the voters. My decision was also informed by the fact that public education continues to experience significant changes in areas such as governance, funding, and student needs. Those ongoing developments reinforce the importance of thoughtful, consistent governance and informed decision-making by the School Board.

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

Indiana’s public education system has become increasingly complex. Within the IPS boundaries, students attend schools operated by IPS, innovation network schools, charter schools, and other public options. Families often navigate multiple enrollment pathways, and school boards must govern within a framework that has changed considerably over the past decade. Acknowledging this complexity can help the audience feel understood and valued in their experiences. This complexity requires clear accountability, collaboration among education providers, and an understanding that many organizations contribute to educating children living within the IPS boundaries. Recognizing this shared responsibility can help the audience feel appreciated and motivated to work together. My commitment to continuing to develop a clear plan for accountability, resource access, and supports for all students receiving public education within the boundaries includes specific initiatives and measurable goals. I believe we do this as a collective, centering students rather than adult desires.

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

Student achievement is shaped by several interconnected academic priorities, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to long-term success. Many educators see literacy as a foundational skill because reading proficiency influences learning across all subject areas, including mathematics and science. At the same time, strengthening mathematics instruction remains essential. Recognizing quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and algebra readiness as key success factors can motivate educators and policymakers to prioritize math skills for student achievement. Academic success also depends on broader factors such as attendance, educator effectiveness, access to instructional materials, and social-emotional support, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach. Overall, many education leaders describe the current landscape as one that requires continued investment in foundational literacy, strong mathematics instruction, and opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, military service, and civic life.

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

IPEC and IPS are partners, not competitors. That partnership is established in Indiana statute because lawmakers recognized that serving students well requires collaboration, not competition. The IPS Board has an opportunity to embrace that partnership, strengthen the relationship with IPEC, and help lead the shared work of improving outcomes for every student and family within the IPS boundaries. Our responsibility is not simply to fulfill our individual roles, but to work together in ways that honor the intent of the law and keep students at the center of every decision.

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

While I recognize the referendum rate may not be as high as I hoped, emphasizing its significance can motivate community support and engagement. I understand that governing requires compromise, and reaching consensus is part of responsible leadership. I respect the process that led to a proposal balancing the needs of students with the realities facing taxpayers. Although the final rate was not my ideal, I see it as an opportunity to continue investing in our students. If the community supports the referendum, it is our responsibility as a Board to ensure those resources are used strategically, transparently, and in ways that produce measurable results for students and families, reinforcing our commitment to responsible governance.

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?

The Board’s responsibility is to provide governance, oversight, and accountability—not to manage the district’s day-to-day operations. When budget reductions are necessary, my approach will be to remain engaged, ask thoughtful questions, and carefully consider the administration’s recommendations. Being present, informed, and responsive throughout the process is essential. I will raise concerns when I have them and ensure the voices of students, families, educators, and the community are heard. At the same time, I recognize that the current budget reductions are not an opportunity to reshape the district’s strategic direction. They are difficult but necessary decisions to maintain financial stability and position the district for long-term success. My focus will be on ensuring that decisions are made transparently, align with the district’s strategic priorities, and minimize the impact on student learning whenever possible. Even in challenging financial circumstances, our responsibility is to provide strong governance while keeping student outcomes at the center of every decision. Yes, the district should continue pursuing grants, philanthropic partnerships, business collaborations, and advocating for adequate state funding. However, most of these sources are temporary or restricted and cannot replace the stable, predictable operating revenue a referendum provides. As a commissioner, I believe we should maximize every available funding opportunity while ensuring every public dollar is used responsibly and with a clear focus on improving student outcomes.

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

Community engagement doesn’t begin on Election Day—it is an ongoing responsibility. I will continue meeting with families, students, educators, community organizations, and neighborhood leaders through school events, community meetings, and opportunities to listen across the district. Community feedback is essential to good governance. It helps identify concerns, understand different perspectives, and informs my decision-making. While every decision may not reflect every opinion, every voice deserves to be heard and considered. My commitment is to listen with respect, communicate transparently, and make decisions that are in the best interest of students and the long-term success of the district.

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?

My decisions are made independently and always with one question in mind: What is in the best interest of students? If an individual or organization shares that commitment and their values align with improving outcomes for students, I am open to their support. However, financial support does not equate to influence. My responsibility is to the students, families, and taxpayers within the IPS boundaries, and every decision I make will be guided by what best serves them.