Article Summary –
After working as a paralegal and project manager, the author became a teacher, feeling called to help the community. Witnessing classroom challenges, including large class sizes, led them to join the Deer Valley school board, initiating programs for student support. Now, they aim for a state legislative seat to further enhance Arizona’s education system.
Like many young individuals, I was uncertain about my future after high school. I began as a paralegal, then transitioned to project management, yet neither satisfied my desire to contribute to my community.
My journey led me to teaching. After graduating from Grand Canyon University, I started as a first-grade teacher in the Deer Valley school district, where my daughters now attend.
Teaching was rewarding but exposed me to student and educator challenges, strengthening my resolve to ensure every student succeeds.
When my daughter encountered developmental issues, I chose to leave teaching to support her. Arizona’s large class sizes—29 students in her class—underscore a widespread problem.
Our students deserve better. Quality public schools are crucial for preparing students for future careers as business owners, doctors, engineers, mechanics, or electricians. Without them, Arizona risks losing progress in attracting top companies and jobs.
This led me to run for the Deer Valley school board, a seat I won in 2022.
Since then, I’ve focused on district improvements. We donated 200 pairs of shoes to Title I schools and launched a construction education program to tackle workforce shortages.
We introduced an Early Head Start program to reduce childcare costs and opened Ann E’s Closet and Pantry for community support.
We’ve nearly eliminated our teacher shortage.
In two years, I achieved significant goals at the school board. More can be done at the state level for school and student success, motivating my run for LD2 in the State House. Legislators must ensure every child has opportunities to thrive.
With your support, we can achieve this in November.
The post OPINION: I loved serving our students. Now, I want to serve our state. first appeared on Copper Courier.
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