Parents are the primary teachers and decision-makers in the education of their children. They are partners in all academic, extracurricular, behaviorial, physical, and mental health aspects of their child's education. We must strive at every level and in all practices to create opportunities for parents to be a more informed and meaningful part of their child's education.
A culture of excellence and participation is achieved by pursuing fundamental educational priorities in literacy, academics, work skills, work habits, problem solving, and behavior. It is essential that we identify and maintain the proper roles for the district, teachers, staff, parents, and the community in a focused and coordinated effort to prepare our children in the best way possible for their future -- in school, in the workforce, and in life.
Strict safety and security measures protect our children from threats of physical violence, including traffic hazards in and around our schools. Safety also means we must maintain learning environments that are free from bullying and unneccesary social and emotional burdens.
Establish, communicate, and enforce objective standards of behavior and respect for all students, parents, and staff. The Mason community values kindness, caring, consideration, and respect for every student, family, employee, and guest. Exceptional standards of behavior and freedom of expression are essential for maintaining safe learning environments, improving educational outcomes, and forming strong and confident young adults.
Policies and guidelines are not simply intended to protect the District from the consequences of difficult decisions. They should reflect the diverse needs and values of the Mason community. Policy is the primary means of communicating District priorities, and guides us to make the best decisions for our students, families, and the community.
The community deserves smart strategies that are driven by the knowledge and skills needed by our students now and in the future. Capital investments should be fiscally responsible and agile, and communicated responsibly, honestly, and accurately to the public.
Mason offers outstanding opportunities, knowledge, and support for our schools. We can leverage this support by promoting active parent and community partnerships and input. We must maintain a Bulldog focus on our classrooms, supporting our teachers with resources and assistance they need to suceed.
Mason is a wonderful and caring place to raise and educate children. Colleen and I moved to Mason more than 20 years ago and have raised two children here. We both come from large families that value the importance of education. Our experiences in athletics, band, Scouting, volunteering, and other community activities have reinforced the importance of parents as active partners in the education of children.
I have served 6 years on the Mason School Board, worked with two District administrations, and witnessed the most educationally disruptive and impactful events this community and our families have ever experienced. I will continue to prioritize and respect the needs of every student and every family.
For more than 35 years I have worked with schools, community groups, and industry to access funding resources and solve problems. I managed drug prevention and education programs for the State, provided consulting services to schools and community groups across Michigan, developed online learning programs and curriculum for secondary and post-secondary schools, and implemented cutting-edge training tools for small and large manufacturers in various industries throughout the country.
Mason benefits from a proud and supportive community, and maintains a tradition of diverse and committed school board candidates. Lacy Harding is particularly well-suited for the Mason School Board. She recognizes and properly prioritizes the challenges faced by our schools and families.
As the mother of two young Mason students, Lacy understands the vital role of parents in the education of their children. Accountability, transparency, trust, and choice are an important part of that responsibility. She will provide a strong parent voice and support for our teachers, students, and families.
Crescat Scientia Vita Excolatur.
Semper Discens.
Thank you for your interest and support for our children and Mason Public Schools. I appreciate the opportunity to respond to your questions and concerns.
