PAM BARNETT'S RESPONSE
Thank you for reaching out to me.
1. Education has been my chosen career path. I spent 24 years as a speech and language pathologist and six years as a school principal kindergarten through eighth grade. My husband and I are currently raising our six-year-old grandson who is currently in kindergarten. I have always thought about running for a seat on the board but this year decided it was time to do so. My heart is with the children and I believe they all need the best education that we adults can possibly provide for them. So that is the reason that I am running for a seat in the school board.
2. I would like the student body to know that if I were elected to the board I would be looking for opportunities to improve and increase communication between students, teachers, and the Board of Education. Communication is key to getting things done. My goal as a member of the school board is to work closely with students, faculty and administrators to see that their voices are heard.
3. As far as the at risk and mental issues that are currently being seen in the district, I would want to have all the teachers and administrators take some training in mental health issues. This pandemic has severely increased the rate of depression and suicide cases in our country.
At one of the board meetings, the principal’s reported that district wide grades are down anywhere from 4 to 7 months. I believe summer school would be a great option to help catch up students. I would also look into a possible after school program so that students could stay and catch up on any deficient work.
4. The district currently has numerous ESL students. Our Congolese population has increased this past year or so. We have several teachers employed currently who are working to increase the students English skills. Since I have been subbing in the district this year I have seen great improvement in these students’ communication and writing abilities.
As I mentioned before, student’s grades are down district wide and the board needs to address these issues. Summer school and after school programs would be extremely helpful for this. And I would like to see more chrome books and iPads purchased so that students could check them out and take them home to do their work. Increasing technology capabilities at the school would also be a goal.
As far as a plan to improve these issues, I know summer school is being planned for June at this time. And I know at least at the primary school iPads and chrome books have been purchased.
Thank you for reaching out