In its D200 school board endorsements, Wednesday Journal alleged that I have a “less holistic understanding” of the issues facing OPRF High School. That is not true. Here are the major issues:
Academic Outcomes
Only 62 percent of students met or exceeded English standards and 56 percent met or exceeded math standards on the 2018 SAT. Yet we spend $23,000 per student annually. Improving academic outcomes for all students is a priority.
Educational Equity
America to Me was the catalyst for my candidacy. I mistakenly thought that OPRF offered all students an equitable and excellent education. My husband and I have two African-American sons who have experienced racial bias. I have faced racial bias and fought against it. The Racial Equity Policy must be implemented in an accountable way.
Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency
D200’s cash reserve, resulting from overtaxing our community for nearly a decade, enabled the board to deficit-spend and make poor financial decisions. First, they tried to push through an Olympic-size pool and garage teardown without voter approval. It failed. Second, they put a slightly smaller pool and garage teardown plus a few add-ons to referendum, and it failed. Many taxpayers have lost trust in the board because of these kinds of actions. The board oath states, “I shall respect taxpayers’ interests by serving as a faithful protector of the school district’s assets.” I will honor the oath.
Facility Investments
For the past three years I have actively advocated for needs-based facility improvements. I have attended and spoken out at many meetings on behalf of students and the community. Our facility’s needs must be prioritized while maintaining a balanced budget.
If you want an honest, transparent, competent, committed candidate, who is running for the right reasons, cast your vote for me, Amanda Massie. www.AmandaMassieD200.com.