How would you ensure the district is financially sustainable? What do you think are the most important steps for MPS to take to respond to the existing budget deficit?

To ensure the financial sustainability of Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS), it’s essential to implement strategies that enhance transparency, optimize existing resources, and foster community trust. Given the current budget deficit and transparency issues highlighted within our district, including outlets such as Minneapolis Schools Voices on June 20, 2023, my approach focuses on actionable steps, including:

1. Enhanced Transparency and Stakeholder Engagement: MPS has faced ongoing challenges in transparency, which erodes public trust and complicates effective decision-making. I will advocate for the implementation of real-time, publicly accessible dashboards that track expenditures, funding allocations, and budget performance. This approach will build trust, foster community involvement, and ensure stakeholders are well-informed about financial decisions (Minneapolis Schools Voices, 2023).
2. Optimizing Existing Resources with Zero-Based Budgeting: Adopting a zero-based budgeting approach can significantly improve financial efficiency. Unlike traditional budgeting, which adjusts previous budgets incrementally, zero-based budgeting requires justifying all expenses from scratch each budget cycle. This ensures that every dollar is necessary and aligned with our strategic goals, making the best use of limited resources. For instance, comprehensive audits of existing contracts and expenditures can identify redundancies and areas for cost-saving, ensuring funds are directed where they are most needed (OpenGov, 2023).
3. Innovative Funding and Cost-Saving Strategies: To address budget shortfalls, I will explore innovative funding opportunities and cost-saving measures. This includes seeking grants, partnerships, and philanthropic contributions that align with our educational goals. For example, we can collaborate with local businesses and higher education institutions to support programs that directly benefit our students, such as professional development for teachers and evidence-based academic interventions. Investing in professional development opportunities will ensure our educators have the tools they need to succeed, which in turn supports student achievement (Education Commission of the States, 2021).
4. Establishing a Financial Oversight Committee: Creating a financial oversight committee comprising community members, educators, and financial experts will ensure ongoing review and accountability of the district’s finances. This committee will regularly assess spending, recommend adjustments, and provide transparent reports to the public, enhancing fiscal responsibility and trust (Government Finance Officers Association, 2020).
5. Strategic Resource Allocation: Resource allocation must be strategic and data-driven. We need to ensure that funds are channeled into programs and initiatives that have the highest impact on student achievement. This includes investing in evidence-based interventions that improve literacy and math proficiency, areas where MPS currently struggles. I agree that addressing these academic disparities is crucial for the district’s long-term success.

By implementing these strategies, we can navigate the current budget deficit and build a financially sustainable future for MPS. My goal is to ensure that our resources are effectively utilized to support student success, fostering an educational environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

References:
* Minneapolis Schools Voices. (2023). Minneapolis Public Schools has a transparency problem.
* OpenGov. (2023). What is Zero-Based Budgeting?
* Education Commission of the States. (2021). Strategies for School Districts to Address Budget Shortfalls. Retrieved from Education Commission of the States
* Government Finance Officers Association. (2020). Best Practices in School District Budgeting.

Enrollment has decreased in MPS for 5+ straight years, especially among BIPOC students (see here for trends); what strategies would you use to reestablish strong enrollment in the district, particularly among families whose voices are not frequently heard?

To reestablish strong enrollment, I believe in the power of inclusive, community engagement and home-based learning strategies. Research shows that strong home-school partnerships significantly contribute to children thriving in the classroom. According to a study by the National PTA, students with involved parents and guardians are more likely to earn higher grades, attend school regularly, have better social skills, and graduate (National PTA, 2021).

I propose hosting monthly, interactive sessions for caregivers, focusing on reading and math activities that align with classroom curriculum. These sessions will equip parents and guardians with simple, effective strategies to support their children’s education at home, making learning both fun and impactful. For instance, studies have shown that effective reading and math activities can be as short as 10-15 minutes daily, significantly boosting proficiency (National Center on Intensive Intervention, 2020).

From my experience as an Early Learning Corps volunteer in MPS, I observed firsthand the positive impact when parents are equipped with tools to reinforce learning outside the classroom. Students exhibited increased enthusiasm and confidence, choosing to play educational “math games” during playtime. I aim to replace the term “intervention” with more inviting language to encourage participation without the stigma often associated with such programs.

Union City, NJ, serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through community engagement and personalized education. Despite facing severe challenges, Union City transformed from a struggling district to a model of educational excellence through high expectations, individualized instruction, and strong community involvement, resulting in a 50% increase in attendance.

MPS has seen a steady decline in enrollment over the past five years, with significant drops among BIPOC students. Partnering with local organizations to support underserved families and ensuring every voice is heard and valued in our schools will be crucial to reversing this trend and rebuilding trust within our community. We are all integral parts of this team.

References:
* National PTA. (2021). The Benefits of Parent Involvement: What Research Has to Say.
* Henderson, A. T., & Mapp, K. L. (2002). A New Wave of Evidence: The Impact of School, Family, and Community Connections on Student Achievement. Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.
* Jeynes, W. H. (2012). A Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Different Types of Parental Involvement Programs for Urban Students. Urban Education, 47(4), 706-742.
* National Center on Intensive Intervention. (2020). Intensive Intervention: Where to Begin.

What do you see as the role of the school board member? What skills and experience would you bring to the board that is needed? Are you open to increasing your knowledge around school board governance?

The role of a school board member is vital to shaping the educational landscape of our community. As a school board member, I would be responsible for setting the vision and goals for the district, establishing policies that promote educational excellence, overseeing the district’s financial health, and ensuring accountability through regular assessment and transparent communication with stakeholders.

My diverse background in early learning, corporate finance, and IT governance, risk, and compliance (IT GRC) uniquely equips me to tackle the challenges faced by Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS). My hands-on experience as an Early Learning Corps volunteer has given me insight into the direct impact of educational policies on students and educators. My corporate experience provides a robust foundation in financial management, essential for maintaining fiscal accountability and transparency within the district. Additionally, my volunteer work with the Hennepin County Master Gardener program and my entrepreneurial endeavors demonstrate a commitment to community engagement and innovative problem-solving.
I am dedicated to continuously expanding my knowledge around school board governance. Effective governance requires a commitment to learning and adapting to new educational research, legislative changes, and community needs. By participating in professional development opportunities and engaging with educational experts, I will ensure that I am well-informed and capable of making decisions that best serve our students and community.

Overall, I believe in fostering a culture of excellence and ensuring that every decision made by the school board is in the best interest of our students, teachers, and the broader community. My approach is centered around collaboration, transparency, and accountability to create an educational environment where every student can thrive.

What strategies would you advocate for to hire, retain, support, and develop educators of color?

To effectively hire, retain, support, and develop educators of color, I would focus on the following key strategies:

Expanding “Grow Your Own” Programs:

I strongly advocate for promoting and expanding initiatives like the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities’ Grow Your Own Teachers (MNGOT) program. This program has successfully increased the diversity of educators by recruiting non-licensed district employees and supporting them through to licensure and advanced degrees. By targeting individuals already committed to our schools, we can cultivate a more diverse teaching workforce rooted in our community’s values and needs.

Partnering with AmeriCorps Programs:

Creating a pipeline from qualified volunteers serving in Ampact Early Learning Corps, Reading Corps, and Math Corps to teaching roles is crucial. These volunteers have demonstrated a commitment to education and possess hands-on experience with students. Supporting their transition to full-time educators through targeted training and development programs will enrich our teaching workforce with passionate and dedicated individuals.

Establishing Mentorship and Support Networks:

To retain and develop talent, I propose establishing robust mentorship programs that pair new educators of color with experienced mentors. These mentors can provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities, creating a strong community within the district. Studies show that sustained professional development is crucial for teacher effectiveness and retention. Creating support networks and affinity groups can foster a sense of belonging and mutual support among educators of color, enhancing job satisfaction and retention.

Consistent Professional Development:

I would ensure that professional development for educators of color is consistent, high-quality, and relevant. According to a study by the Learning Policy Institute, effective professional development programs are sustained over time and include opportunities for collaboration and feedback. Allocating time for professional development within the school schedule is essential, as it allows educators to fully engage in learning without added stress. A study by TNTP found that on average, it takes teachers around three years to become proficient in a new curriculum, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and training.

Leveraging Community Partnerships:

Collaboration with local businesses and higher education institutions can provide additional resources and support for educators of color. These partnerships can fund professional development programs, offer scholarships for advanced degrees, and create pipelines for students of color to enter the teaching profession. By building a strong network of community support, we can ensure that our educators have the resources they need to succeed and thrive.

By implementing these strategies, we can build a more diverse, inclusive, and effective teaching workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our student population and community.

References:
*Learning Policy Institute. (2017). Effective Teacher Professional Development.
*TNTP. (2015). The Mirage: Confronting the Hard Truth About Our Quest for Teacher Development.

What are your views on the science of reading? What priorities would you advance to ensure the district is improving literacy for students?

My views on the science of reading emphasize a balanced approach that incorporates both phonics-based instruction and the whole language approach. The science of reading supports systematic phonics as crucial for teaching children to decode words. However, I also recognize the value of the whole language approach, which emphasizes the context and meaning of words in literature. This balance is particularly important for English as a Second Language (ESL) students, who benefit from understanding words in context. Learning is never one-size-fits-all, and achieving balance in our instructional methods is key.
In my experience as an Early Learning Corps volunteer, I have seen firsthand how gamified and engaging interventions can lead to significant improvements in student performance. For instance, I never labeled these activities as “interventions” or “assessments.” Instead, I referred to them as “reading and math games.” This not only reduced any potential stigma but also made learning fun and engaging for the students. By the end of the year, my entire classroom eagerly participated in these activities, often choosing them over other options during playtime. The results were remarkable, with assessment scores soaring and students frequently asking to take the math games and books home.

To further support literacy improvement in our district, I started a YouTube channel, “Ms Shayla Reads,” to foster a love for reading among children during the summer. In just one month, the channel has garnered over 90,000 views with book and vocabulary requests from parents. This experience underscores that learning can be both enjoyable and sought after by students when presented in an engaging manner.

To summarize, my priorities for improving literacy in our district are:

Implement Balanced Reading Instruction:

Ensuring educators are familiarized with both phonics-based instruction and whole language approaches supports learning strategies for the diverse needs of our MPS population. A 2020 study by the National Council on Teacher Quality found that teacher preparation programs focusing on the science of reading significantly improve student reading outcomes. At the same time, whole language methods help students understand and appreciate context and meaning in literature. By providing comprehensive professional development and ongoing support for teachers, we can equip them with the tools they need to implement a balanced approach to reading instruction.

Make Learning Fun, Engaging and Consistent:

While there are concerns about the effectiveness of interventions, particularly in light of recent reports showing significant declines in literacy and math assessments despite current interventions (Minneapolis Schools Voices, 2023), my experience as an Early Learning Corps volunteer has shown me that when interventions are gamified, engaging, and applied consistently, they can lead to substantial improvements in student performance. Serving in the classroom this year, I witnessed assessment scores soar when we implemented these strategies, proving that with the right approach, interventions can be highly successful.

Balanced and Thoughtful Assessments:

While assessments are necessary to track progress, it’s important to root them in a balanced, intentional approach to avoid overburdening our teachers or students. Research by Dylan Wiliam in 2011 suggests that formative assessments, which are integrated into daily instruction, can be highly effective without consuming valuable lesson time. I support a balanced approach that uses both formative and summative assessments to provide a full picture of student progress while minimizing disruptions and keeping the focus on learning.
By fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment, we can help every student achieve literacy proficiency and develop a lifelong love for reading.

References:
*Minneapolis Schools Voices. (2023). Minneapolis Public Schools students show significant declines in literacy and math assessments despite interventions.
*Learning Policy Institute. (2017). Effective Teacher Professional Development.
*Borman, G. D., et al. (2007). Comprehensive school reform and student achievement: A meta-analysis. Review of Educational Research, 77(3), 493-530.
*National Center on Intensive Intervention. (2020). Intensive Intervention: Where to Begin.
*National Council on Teacher Quality. (2020). Teacher Preparation Review: Preparation in Reading Instruction.
*Wiliam, D. (2011). Embedded Formative Assessment. Solution Tree Press.

What do you see as the role of youth voice and opinion in decisions affecting Minneapolis Public Schools? How would you work to ensure that students have the opportunity to shape and influence their own learning?

Youth voice and opinion are vital to the success and relevance of our educational system. Students are at the heart of everything we do, and their insights, experiences, and perspectives are central in shaping policies and practices that directly impact their learning and well-being. As a candidate for the Minneapolis Public Schools Board, I believe in the power of student agency and am committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and valued. Here’s how I plan to integrate youth voice into the decision-making process and ensure they have the opportunity to shape and influence their own learning:

Student Advisory Councils:

Establishing student advisory councils at both the district and school levels will provide a structured platform for students to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback. These councils will meet regularly with school board members, administrators, and teachers to discuss important issues and collaborate on solutions. Research shows that student advisory councils can effectively bridge the gap between students and decision-makers, fostering a sense of ownership and involvement (Youth Voice Journal, 2021).

Regular Surveys and Feedback Mechanisms:

Implementing regular surveys and feedback mechanisms will allow students to express their opinions on various aspects of their education, from curriculum and teaching methods to school climate and extracurricular activities. This data will be analyzed and used to inform decision-making processes, ensuring that student perspectives are taken into account. According to a 2020 study by EdWeek, schools that use regular feedback mechanisms report higher levels of student satisfaction and engagement.

Utilizing Technology for Engagement:

Leveraging technology to facilitate student engagement and communication is key. This could include online forums, social media platforms, and virtual town halls where students can voice their opinions and participate in discussions on educational issues. Utilizing technology allows for greater reach and convenience, making it easier for students to be involved. Research from the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE, 2021) indicates that digital platforms can significantly enhance student engagement and participation.
Youth voice is essential in creating an educational system that truly meets the needs of our students. By establishing advisory councils, implementing feedback mechanisms, and utilizing technology for engagement, we can ensure that students have meaningful opportunities to shape and influence their own learning. This approach not only enhances educational outcomes but also helps students develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the future.

My commitment to prioritizing academic achievement, community collaboration, and financial integrity aligns with the belief that when students are actively involved in their education, they are more likely to succeed. Together, we can create a vibrant, inclusive, and effective educational environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive and bloom.

References:
*Youth Voice Journal. (2021). The Impact of Student Advisory Councils on Educational Outcomes.
*EdWeek. (2020). The Benefits of Regular Student Feedback Mechanisms.
*International Society for Technology in Education. (2021). Enhancing Student Engagement Through Digital Platforms.

How do you plan to prioritize and resource the new ethnic studies standards, and ensure the associated curriculum, and related staff training create acceptance and celebration of every student’s background, such as race/ethnicity, gender identity, religion, and sexual orientation?

Here’s how I plan to ensure these standards uplift and empower every student:

1. Integrating Core Subjects with Ethnic Studies: We can weave reading and math activities with ethnic studies content to make learning more relevant and engaging for our students. Research shows that when students see their cultures reflected in the curriculum, their engagement and performance improve significantly. For instance, studies have linked culturally relevant teaching to higher academic achievement and better student-teacher relationships (Banks & Banks, 2019).
2. Highlighting Achievements and Setting High Expectations: It’s crucial to highlight the successes of all cultures, showing students how various groups have overcome challenges and achieved greatness. This fosters confidence and encourages high achievement regardless of background. By teaching students about the achievements and contributions of people who share their backgrounds, we help them develop a positive self-identity and motivation to succeed. This empowerment is crucial for academic success and overall well-being. Studies indicate that high expectations and recognition of diverse contributions lead to better academic outcomes and prepare students for future success (Boykin & Noguera, 2011; Hammond, 2015).
3. Consistent Professional Development for Educators: For the ethnic studies curriculum to be implemented effectively, teachers need consistent training and the necessary time to engage in this professional development. Research indicates it can take teachers 2-3 years to master a new curriculum (Darling-Hammond, 2013). This means we must program in dedicated time for training and support, ensuring that something else is taken off their plate to accommodate this. It’s essential that we don’t simply add more to their responsibilities but instead provide the focused time and resources needed for successful implementation.
4. Strategic Resource Allocation: While securing additional funding is important, it is equally vital to optimize existing resources. We can repurpose current materials and leverage community partnerships to support the implementation of ethnic studies. This practical approach ensures we make the most of what we have while working towards additional support.
   By integrating ethnic studies with core academic subjects, highlighting cultural achievements, empowering students through a relevant curriculum, promoting a culture of excellence, providing consistent professional development for educators, and strategically allocating resources, we can create an educational environment that celebrates diversity and fosters high academic achievement. Empowering students through this curriculum will prepare them for success in all their future endeavors, emboldened by the examples of those who have achieved greatness before them.

References:
* Banks, J. A., & Banks, C. A. M. (2019). Multicultural Education: Issues and Perspectives. Wiley.
* Boykin, A. W., & Noguera, P. (2011). Creating the Opportunity to Learn: Moving from Research to Practice to Close the Achievement Gap. ASCD.
* Hammond, Z. (2015). Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students. Corwin.
* Darling-Hammond, L. (2013). Getting Teacher Evaluation Right: What Really Matters for Effectiveness and Improvement. Teachers College Press.
* Minnesota Department of Education. (2024). Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards: Social Studies.

As a school board director, what does accountability look like to you?

As a school board director, accountability is the cornerstone of building trust, ensuring transparency, and fostering continuous improvement within our educational system. To me, accountability means being answerable to the students, parents, educators, and community members who rely on us to provide a high-quality education. It encompasses several key elements:

Transparent Communication:

Open, honest, and regular communication with all stakeholders is essential. This includes sharing information about decisions, policies, and outcomes in a clear and accessible manner. For instance, providing real-time, publicly accessible, easy to digest dashboards that track expenditures, funding allocations, and budget performance can help build trust and facilitate community involvement in financial decision-making.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

Using accurate and timely data to inform decisions is critical. This means regularly assessing student performance, school operations, and district finances, and using this data to guide policy and resource allocation. It also involves setting measurable goals and benchmarks, and publicly reporting on progress toward these goals.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Actively involving students, parents, educators, and community members in the decision-making process is crucial. This can be achieved through regular town hall meetings, surveys, and advisory committees that provide a platform for diverse voices to be heard and considered in shaping district policies and practices.

Responsiveness to Concerns:

Addressing concerns and feedback from the community promptly and effectively is a vital aspect of accountability. This involves not only listening to the issues raised but also taking concrete actions to resolve them and reporting back on the steps taken.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement:

Accountability also means being willing to learn and adapt. This includes seeking out professional development opportunities, staying informed about best practices in education, and being open to new ideas and innovations that can enhance student learning and district operations.

Ethical Governance:

Upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethical behavior in all actions and decisions is fundamental. This includes avoiding conflicts of interest, making decisions that are in the best interest of students, and ensuring that all actions are aligned with the district’s mission and values.

By prioritizing transparent communication, data-driven decision making, stakeholder engagement, responsiveness to concerns, continuous improvement, and ethical governance, we can create an accountable and effective school board that truly serves the needs of our community. Accountability is not just about being answerable for our actions, but also about fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility for the success of our students.