equitable distribution of resources

• Use evidence-based funding (EBF) models to address disparities.
  • The state has been doing this for years, Chicago is finally catching up. It is a funding model that prioritizes need and equity over attendance. 
• Guarantee equitable resource distribution based on need.
• Provide equal opportunities and support for all students.

• Provide mental health services and social-emotional learning programs.
• Implement culturally relevant, trauma-informed curricula.
• Ensure students see themselves reflected in their teachers and curriculum.

• Address root causes of disciplinary issues with trauma-informed approaches.
• Implement wraparound supports, restorative justice, and re-engagement strategies.
• Uphold the board’s decision to eliminate School Resource Officers from safety plans.

• Provide a full-time case manager in every school.
• Ensure full support and dedicated minutes for students with IEPs and 504s.
• Advocate for smaller class sizes for personalized attention.

• Increase the number and retention of Black and Latine teachers and principals.
• Expand bilingual education and dual language programs.
  • In our globalized economy, our country is behind in language education. Our students deserve to learn multiple languages in order to be better prepared for an increasing globalized job market. 
• Offer free certification for teachers to teach English Language Learners.

• There is no planet B, we need to prioritize addressing the climate crisis by pushing for more green, sustainable school buildings. 
• Create green, healthy schools by removing hazardous materials.
• Use green energy and ensure modern, energy-efficient infrastructure.
• Prioritize environmentally sustainable practices in school operations

 My vision for co-governing and being the community’s voice on the school board is based in my relationships. As an organizer, I believe that those most affected by the issues have the answers. I continually build power with my community and make decisions in collaboration with others. I believe decision making in relationship with others is the precedent that needs to be set after our first elections for this board, and I believe I am the candidate that can do just that.

All of our schools could benefit from the enrichments that are included in the SCS model. Often, these models include ways to support the parents and community holistically, which will only further the growth of the students. Schools are public institutions that should be easily navigated by community members and places to receive resources for those in need. Night classes, food pantries, housing resources, career skillbuilding, tutoring, academic enrichment, and arts programming would give our students more opportunities to be recognized as gifted, not just testing well, and would provide the wider population with a resource hub.

We have to double down on our commitment not only to our students with special needs, but to our students in the outer parts of the city headed to selective enrollment schools. We need to recruit members of our communities to become bus drivers. These are good jobs with good benefits that can be filled by parents and community members. We absolutely need to bring back busing for our selective enrollments. My own son was able to go to his middle school due to busing, and I believe that it will improve the diversity at our selective enrollments.