on FUNDING
My top priority is fully funding public education, so every child feels safe, supported, and able to reach their absolute potential. I’ll work to achieve this by collaborating with educators, families, and community partners to hold state and local leaders accountable for fair funding, livable wages, and the resources our schools need. Tax dollars are public dollars. Taxpayers have the right to know which schools receive voucher funding and whether those schools meet the same safety and academic standards as public schools. That includes required background checks of all employees working on the property, with those records available to the public.
on CURRENT LEADERSHIP
While the NHC Board of Education has engaged complex issues, a lack of unity has limited sustainably meaningful progress. Strong school governance requires clear goals, collaboration, and a consistent focus on student success across the county.
on MEETING STUDENT NEEDS
The biggest challenge facing our district is meeting students’ increasingly complex needs with chronically underfunded schools, specifically regarding scores in subjects necessary for fundamental life skills. That’s why my top policy priority is restoring the promise of fully funded public education — so we can support educators, address student mental health, and close opportunity gaps.
on the SCHOOL BOND
I will vote YES and will advocate and vote for the school bond because investing now means safer schools, modern facilities, and equitable learning environments. It must be implemented with transparency and clear community oversight. This will also provide trust that the county is committed to the betterment of this community and its future.
on the STATE FUNDING EDUCATION
Public education is a constitutional promise. I will use my role on the school board to advocate with state leaders and the community to make sure that promise is fully funded and realized for every child in New Hanover County.
on BOARD GOVERNING OVERREACH
The board’s role is to uphold high academic standards, protect every student’s right to learn, and respect the professional judgment of educators, including librarians. Curriculum and library choices should be guided by expertise—not political pressure or censorship.
on LOW PERFORMING SCHOOLS
I would support proactive, collaborative approaches to help low-performing schools succeed — using data to guide investments in strong leadership, instructional coaches, smaller classes, and wraparound services like mental health and family support.
on ENDOWMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Public education is a shared responsibility. The state must fully fund salaries, resources, and facilities, fulfilling its constitutional duty. Local government can enhance services and attract top educators, while the Endowment provides additional programs and opportunities beyond the classroom.
on TRANSPARENT COMMUNICATIONS
Transparency and public engagement are essential to good school board leadership. I will proactively share information, explain decisions, and be accountable to the community—especially on funding, curriculum, and school improvement issues—because public trust grows when leaders communicate honestly, listen actively, and ensure every student has the support and resources they deserve. If legislators refuse to enforce accountability for schools receiving public money, taxpayers have every right to question whose interests are truly being served.