A Life Long Teacher for School Board. Experience Matters!
“We have all chosen to live here in the Downingtown School District because of the exceptional education, the strong sense of community, and the low taxes. All of these must be protected ”
— Margie Miller
The Issues
1) Highest quality of education possible
2) Mental well being, resilience, and suicide prevention
3) Five day a week in-person education option
4) No new taxes
Exceptional Education
Our students deserve the best quality education possible with the least amount of restrictions. However, we must be aware that our students will need to be well equipped to compete and prosper in the global economy. They won’t only be competing for work with a local applicant but other young people around the globe.
Each child’s individuality needs to be recognized and nurtured. Teachers need support and encouragement to bring their expertise and talents to their students. Improved communication among parents, teachers, and administration is paramount. At no time should our district exchange quantity for quality.
It is vital to recognize that Downingtown Area School District is not a homogenous group of students and families. Our differences bring all of us together, enabling our excellence to shine. Performing to one’s capability and potential has always been a hallmark of a Downingtown education.
I will listen to the students and parents about keeping Downingtown Area School District a safe and welcoming place for students and families of all backgrounds. I will advocate for the success of our students.
Student Mental Well Being
Beginning at the elementary level, children should realize their unique contribution to our community. Self-worth and confidence are the building blocks for the acceptance and understanding of self and others. However, this self-worth cannot occur without essential factors in a child’s life, such as rest, nutrition, and security. Later start times would contribute to these basic needs and align with the child’s natural biorhythm.
In addition to the traditional health and science curriculum, developmental psychology needs to be built into the curriculum to promote awareness of the stages of brain development. For example, the human brain does not reach full development until age twenty-five. Therefore students must understand the impact of their choices on their long-term health. In addition, students must understand the effects of lifestyle habits (sleep, nutrition, exercise, learning) and adverse effects of mood-altering substances, energy drinks, excess use of technology/ gaming, etc., on the developing brain.
Through a clearer understanding of how the brain develops and works, students can better accept themselves and their processes and learn how to best care for themselves.
5 Day in-person School option
Parents are the decision-makers for their children. Parents want their children to receive the appropriate schooling they deserve – We cannot make up for the lost learning from these formative school years. Online learning is not adequate; learning does not only happen from the neck up! Learning is a relational process. There is a back and forth moment-to-moment process that happens that allows for integration- It needs to happen in real-time – in person.
In-person, fully open schools are essential for a child’s complete development and education to engage the whole child.
Protecting Home Owners… No Tax Increases
Being a resident of Uwchlan Township for many years, I value and respect all of our homeowners at all different stages of life who reside in various homes. We have a responsibility to use taxes wisely. Our community deserves accountability and resolution.
Understand that tax increases negatively impact the value of your home, as does a decline in the quality of our DASD schools- Homes are the primary asset for many residents. We also do not want to drive seniors out of the homes they love - away from family and quality healthcare. Responsible spending is a must. There has been a vote on a 2% tax increase with incremental additions to follow. I say no to any additional tax increases.