Our Community Issues
I strongly believe in the power of school choice, an approach that respects the uniqueness of each student and their distinct learning needs. By advocating for school choice, I am promoting an education system that doesn't simply apply a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather tailors the learning experience to individual students. This strategy acknowledges the fact that each child has unique interests, strengths, and learning styles.
School choice also empowers parents. It gives them a direct say in their child's education, fostering a sense of responsibility and investment. This direct accountability enhances parents' involvement in their child's learning journey, leading to better communication with teachers and a deeper understanding of the child's progress.
Moreover, statistics show that students who participate in school choice programs are significantly more likely to graduate from high school. These programs can provide enhanced opportunities for low-income students who might otherwise be confined to underperforming local schools. The increased graduation rates are a testament to the positive impact of school choice, both on individual students and on society as a whole.
I firmly believe that our families deserve a choice. Choice leads to competition, and competition spurs improvement. When schools have to compete for students, they are incentivized to improve their programs, enhance their offerings, and deliver better educational outcomes. This ultimately raises the standard of education across the board.
In advocating for school choice, I am advocating for a system that respects the diversity of our students, empowers our parents, and improves our schools. It's a philosophy that prioritizes student success, parental involvement, and overall educational improvement. Our children deserve nothing less.
Beyond School Choice, I remain deeply committed to working with school administrators, teachers, staff, our union members, and of course parents, students, and our Borough School Board to ensure we have results-driven policies and respect is maintained for our teaching and education professionals.
In our community here in the Mat-Su Borough, our safety and well-being must be our paramount concerns. This is particularly true for those most affected by weak public safety policies, including those grappling with crime and homelessness. The safety of our citizens and neighborhoods is more than a policy discussion; it's about the quality of life, trust in our institutions, and the shared fabric of our community.
I've managed emergency services here in the Valley. I've served as a fire chief. These policies have been integral to my job and career. I get it. Experience matters!
Addressing crime and homelessness requires us to think holistically about public safety. We need to look beyond simple law enforcement measures and consider broader social, economic, and health factors.
To address crime, we need to implement policies that focus on both prevention and intervention. This includes investing in community programs that provide education, job training, and support for those at risk of criminal activity. It also means building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community, promoting cooperation, transparency, and mutual respect.
When it comes to homelessness, it is essential that we not only provide immediate relief but also address underlying causes. This means advocating for affordable housing policies, mental health services, and social support programs that can help individuals secure stable housing and reintegrate into society.
Moreover, we should strengthen our efforts in data collection and analysis to better understand the complexities of crime and homelessness in our borough. This will allow us to tailor our strategies effectively and efficiently, maximizing our resources to meet our community's needs.
We need to prioritize policy changes and approaches that consider the many facets of public safety, with a particular focus on addressing crime and homelessness. As your representative, I am committed to working tirelessly to promote these goals, enhancing the safety and well-being of our Mat-Su Borough community.
Improving the condition of our roads, especially our gravel roads is not just a matter of convenience; it's about quality of life and economic vitality. Poorly maintained roads, riddled with potholes and uneven surfaces, pose safety hazards and can damage vehicles. They can lead to longer commutes, increased traffic, and even accidents, all of which can erode the overall quality of life for our residents.
Furthermore, the state of our roads can directly impact property values. Homes situated on well-maintained roads are often more desirable, leading to increased property values and a healthier housing market. On the contrary, living on a poorly maintained road can decrease a property's appeal and value over time.
The condition of our roads also indirectly affects our local economy. Businesses may be deterred from opening shops in areas with poor infrastructure, meaning fewer jobs and less economic growth for our community. Efficient and reliable transportation networks are crucial to the movement of goods and services, contributing to local commerce and industry.
There's also the matter of civic pride. Investments in transportation infrastructure, such as upgrading our gravel roads, signal progress, and care for our community. These improvements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of our borough but also foster a sense of accomplishment and communal pride among our citizens.
Moreover, addressing the issue of gravel roads goes beyond mere resurfacing. It requires sustainable planning and maintenance practices, considering factors like drainage, proper grading, dust control, and the right choice of gravel to ensure longevity and minimize future repair costs.
Upgrading and maintaining our gravel roads is not just about smoother drives - it's about safety, property value, economic development, and community pride. As your representative, I'm committed to advocating for the necessary investments and strategic planning to improve our roads and uplift our community.
