Survey and Interview Responses

Why are you running for this office?

I am running to ensure West Ada schools reflect the values of our community while preparing every student for success.

What are your qualifications?

I have served as a trustee for the past four years, providing a steady and principled voice for common sense while working hard to ensure our schools reflect the values of Ada County families. I hold a B.A. in History from Boise State and am the mother of four children who attend or have attended West Ada schools, giving me both professional experience and a personal investment in the success of our district.

If elected, what are your goals?

I will keep budgets transparent, prioritize classrooms over bureaucracy, and plan for responsible growth. I am committed to protecting taxpayers, continue to improve standards in reading and math, and ensure accountability for results. I will support excellent teachers, expand learning opportunities from honors to CTE, and partner with local businesses to provide internships and career pathways that keep students engaged, challenged, and workforce-ready.

What experience do you have serving on boards, commissions, non-profits, etc. where you have been of service to others?

In addition to the four years serving as a West Ada trustee, I have served in a variety of volunteer and leadership roles that allowed me to support and strengthen my community. At my church, I devoted time each week to youth activities and served on a women’s board, working to support and uplift the women of my congregation. For ten years, I worked with a non-profit international high school exchange program, where I dedicated extensive time to ensuring student and host family success.

Do you consider yourself fiscally conservative?

“In the four years I’ve served as a trustee, the West Ada property tax burden has decreased over 79%. The rate for 2026 is projected to decrease even more for a total of 99% tax reduction since 2022.
2022–$238 per $100k of assessed value
2026–$1.47 per $100k of assessed value”

Do you consider yourself socially conservative?

I believe in traditional conservative values, with the family unit as a cornerstone, while respecting individual freedoms to pursue life, liberty, and happiness as they choose.

What are the biggest challenges the West Ada schools face and how will you address them?

First is communication. We are in the process of hiring a new communications director in order to reach parents and the general population with a range of information, increasing transparency.

What is the percentage of the budget dedicated to administrative costs versus classroom costs? Do you want to change this allocation?

West Ada’s administrative structure is not top-heavy when compared to other districts regionally and nationally. The Superintendent has demonstrated fiscal responsibility by not refilling unnecessary vacated positions. Approximately 15% of the budget, or $70 million, is allocated to essential services such as transportation, curriculum, school lunches, special education, and the maintenance of 62 district buildings, including 58 school campuses. I believe our budget is managed effectively.

How will you advocate for all students along the spectrum from special needs to those who are from marginalized communities to those who are gifted and highly capable? Do you agree with breaking up the gifted program?

GT (gifted and talented) is mandated by the state but they don’t fund or allocate budgeting for the program. I am open and sensitive to parents in the gifted and talented program as it is important to offer those choices to parents and students who want it in West Ada. We also have special education programs and assist our marginalized students at our Title 1 and Community schools. I would like to inform the public about how they can donate and help with what we offer at our community schools as that work is all done through donations and not with tax money but there is so much need out there.

What are your feelings regarding West Ada’s new sign policy for the classroom?

In 2022, West Ada implemented its initial policy regarding neutral and distraction-free classrooms. This year, in response to recent legislation and following a sign controversy, the district updated this policy. A key modification was the addition of procedures that allow parents to present information to a committee, a secondary committee, and ultimately, to the board. We are committed to addressing these matters with gravity, ensuring that such decisions are made collectively rather than by a single individual.

Is there a challenge to supporting and retaining quality teachers in the district?

This past spring, West Ada experienced a record number of teaching applications for the current school year, which is very encouraging. Many educators appreciate the culture West Ada is fostering, particularly the focus on keeping non-essential elements out of the classroom, which helps attract quality teachers.

How would you handle situations where there are concerns about teacher performance or behavior?

I often get emails and calls from patrons and parents. As a board member, we have one employee (the West Ada Superintendent) and it is his responsibility to handles these issues. He communicates directly with concerned parties and they seem very happy with his actions.

What are your thoughts on the educational aptitude of students? How will the federal change to standards affect Idaho’s steps to improve the standard of excellence in students?

Our district’s core focus on literacy and student proficiency remains unwavering, no matter what changes happen at the federal level. We’re proud to report a record-high 81% reading proficiency for K-3 students in West Ada, with scores consistently trending upward. Our next goal is to replicate this successful approach in math.

What is the district’s stance on balancing technology integration with active teaching methods? Are there specific parameters or objectives in place to limit student screen time?

There’s actually not a hard and fast maximum, it depends on the grade, subject, teacher, and the class itself. It’s an aid and is used as such.