I still honor the values I learned from my family during this formative period: love your neighbor as yourself, respect the dignity of every person, and serve your community. These values drive me to continue to run for office and are the foundation of how I frame my work on the School Board.

My grandfather was a missionary and my primary caregiver: he would take me with him to visit congregants in their homes, at the hospital, and in nursing homes. Did I learn to be patient and a careful listener during those visits? Probably. I am sure I learned to be accepting of all kinds of people.

This picture sits on my bookshelf to help me remember the place where I come from in rural Appalachia. For the first five years of my life, I lived with my family in an apartment over this tiny church.

Ready for Round 2? I am. Just filed my candidate paper work. Thank you to my exceptional team for helping me collect 209 signatures. Ensuring every student is safe, seen, and respected. Standing with educators. Protecting Public Education. Let’s GO. secure.actblue.com/donate/april...