Why are you running for reelection?
From my perspsective, we are starting to make real progress in Amherst School District. I am hoping to continue with the Amherst School Board's many successes during my first term. For example, SAU leadership has created a data dashboard which includes more than standardized tests. At board meetings, we now look at data to make decisions to ensure we are making choices that are best for our students. Also, we continue to work on a framework to guide and ground our work in Amherst School District.
Why should I vote for you?
A vote for me means you believe education is critical to our town, to our country, to our greater good as a people. A vote for me means you believe in creative problem solving. Moreover, I have over two decades of experience in education. I understand what it takes to educate our students. I provide a unique skill set as a board member. I am the only board member whose career is education. My experience allows me to provide deeper conversation regarding educational decisions we make. Voting for me means you believe having an educator on the board is important.
What about the budget?
During my time on the board, we have made some real progress on the budget. The past two budgets have been created using a zero-based budgeting model. The process is thorough, long, and hard; however, the end result is a responsible budget that reflects the values of the schools and the community. Last year, the Amherst budget passed. My hope is that this year's vote will yield the same result.
What about new school buildings?
New physical spaces for students are crucial. There are a number of reasons Amherst students deserve and need new school buildings. I do not have enough room to go into all the reasons, but I am happy to discuss this matter further with anyone. Anyhow, here are a couple reasons. To start, physical spaces impact the education that is delivered. Many schools have seen improvement in achievement simply by changing the physical space. Of course, some are concerned with cost. Maintaining the current buildings is financially unsustainable. The need for new buildings will not disappear. Kicking the can down the road only means we will pay more money later because, as we all know, rarely do materials or labor become more affordable over time.
I still have more questions, how do I contact you?
Let's talk. Let's talk about how we can, together, do what is best for Amherst students. I am happy to discuss my candidacy and my philosophies with you. Please send an email to jasonforamherstschools@gmail.com. I will reply to you, usually, within 24 hours. Please give me the chance to earn your vote.