As you probably are aware, I am running for a second term on the Cape Henlopen school board. Back in 2016, I remember thinking that five years seemed like a long time to have ahead of me, but I am here to tell you the years have flown by. I now have two grandchildren in Cape schools and a third who is about 4 1/2 years away from kindergarten. As a board member, I have been fortunate to have been a part of some really great things happening in Cape. Strategic planning is now ongoing, our Spanish immersion program continues to grow, test scores have improved, and the opportunity gap is narrowing. We have hired many great teachers, administrators, and support staff reflective of the children we serve, supported professional development in trauma-informed care, restorative practices, and cultural responsiveness, aligned the curriculum across five elementary schools and updated our grading system, provided more opportunities for recognition of staff accomplishments and work efforts, and made great strides in opening the lines of communication. We have also been able to open four new schools (Love Creek, HOB, RES, Sussex Consortium) and continue on our path to complete the rest of the plan (CHHS addition, MES, Shields Elementary, and a new middle school).
Yes, I have been a part of these and many more great accomplishments and successes in the Cape Henlopen School District, but there’s always more to be done...especially as we make plans to safely transition back to school in the fall. My message here is, “I’m not done yet!” and I want you to know I am still “all in.” I have a proven track record and I will continue to listen to and consider the needs of the community and staff when making decisions based on what I believe is best for all kids! Successful students make strong schools. Strong schools make strong communities!
I also want you to know that I am honored and humbled at the response I’ve gotten from friends (old and new) in the community wishing me well by pledging support and asking what else they can do to help, and as we come down to the final few days before the election, if you are able to do anything else, I am asking that you make sure you get to the polls to vote, call your friends to remind them to get to the polls, and maybe even offer rides to those who need transportation ...or call a friend if it’s you that needs a ride.
You do not have to be a registered voter to vote in a school board election; you just have to be 18 or older with your primary residence in Cape (with proof), and show up at any one of the polling places (Cape High, Rehoboth Elementary, Mariner Middle) between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 11, to cast your vote.
Thank you for being there for me. Hope to see all of you at the polls!
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