Terry's Priorities

My experience in local school districts for the last decade has taught me how policies from the State School Board impact on local districts and their communities.  I believe that the State policies should reflect the core values of the majority of our state and also the local priorities of the communities.  Local school boards are an important part of the process, which is often overlooked by state mandates and recommendations which claim to provide options, but which don't support districts who make other choices in line with their communities. 

Currently, the Utah State School Board could do better at providing local districts with support and options, particularly in the areas of protecting parents' rights and student safety.  Local control is always preferable, provided that parents' rights and choices are protected, student safety is prioritized and student achievement is encouraged.  The Board should work more closely with the Legislature to ensure that this happens.  My knowledge of the practical applications of policies and recommendations at the state level combines with my persistence in promoting policies that empower local districts, parents and students to maximize the opportunities presented to them.