JAIMEE MILLER'S RESPONSE
Thank you for contacting me! I'm happy to answer your questions!
1.Why/what made you decide to run?
I have considered running for Kirksville School Board for the past few years, but I wanted to wait until I felt like I had the time to devote to it. I have been running the Judevine Center for Autism in Kirksville since we opened in 2015. My job takes a lot of my time and devotion and while I'm still very busy, I have a great group of staff right now that help lighten my load. Part of my job is to advocate for my clients and their families in regard to education and behavioral goals. My field is also very logic-based, we rely on data and research when making decisions. We also have to be creative and think outside the box when teaching our clients. Since there is no "one way" that works for all, we have to be flexible and realize it is ok to change a plan if it doesn't work out. I feel like all of these skills would make me a great asset to the current school board.
2. Is there anything you would like the KHS student body to know?
I have done my best to stay informed about issues that are important to today's youth. I have raised my kids to be empathetic, thoughtful, and tolerant of others and encourage them to stand up for their beliefs. I have manned the GSA table during Mental Health Awareness week two years in a row (the two years before this current one) so that I can show my support for the LGBTQ students. I also believe that diversity education amongst students is very important.
3.How do you think the school district can best address the ever-increasing expectations surrounding at-risk learners and students with chronic mental health issues?
I know the High School has some amazing teachers who genuinely care for and look out for their students. I think Mental Health Awareness Day needs to continue (this year COVID has made having a large group of students and community members in one room impossible). Mental Health resources are something that are much needed across Missouri and especially in our area. Student Handbooks should include a list of resources in regard to Mental Health within a 100 mile radius. It's important to remember that no two students are alike nor do they learn alike. We need to be flexible and adaptable in regard to teaching, especially in regard to at risk students and students with chronic mental health issues. Teachers need to be trained to be able to identify at-risk students so they can assist those students. My clinic runs on positive reinforcement, not just for my clients for my staff and client's parents as well. We have to foster positive relationships, open communications, provide praise, know how to turn mistakes into learning opportunities. Learning should be engaging and fun. We dive head first into this philosophy for pre-K and primary age students, but tend to forget this as students get older. School should be a safe place for all students, a supportive place, and a positive place.
4. What is your understanding of our district's ESL population, educational issues, and plan to improve those?
This is where I feel that diversity education amongst students is important. I believe that Kirksville has become an increasingly diverse student body and it is important to bring as much understanding of cultural differences as possible. There are definitely gaps that need bridging. I hope that with the creation of the Diversity Board that these issues can be more thoroughly and thoughtfully addressed.I would love the opportunity to work with the Diversity Board and provide any assistance I can.
Thank you again for reaching out with your questions! I love seeing students getting involved, it's incredibly important to students to be aware of and engaged in community and school politics...you guys are the ones making the changes now!!