Candidate for Region C Director 

Candidate's Statement

I am pursuing a leadership position on the NSELA Board of Directors because I want to leverage my experience as a science education leader to create a community of support for other science leaders in District C. I have lived, taught, led, and served in District C most of my life. I understand the challenges educators face in the South, including lack of resources, crumbling facilities, large class sizes, resistance to teaching controversial topics, and teacher shortages. We are all facing similar struggles. Building a strong community of support for leaders in District C might not solve all of our problems, but it will provide a safe place to reach out to others to provide and receive support.

I first became a district science leader directly out of the classroom. I had no idea what my role was or how I was going to make a difference. Thankfully, there were several other new science leaders in nearby districts. We connected and bonded as we learned to navigate our new roles. These people are still some of my best friends. I would not be the leader I am today without their support. But I wonder if I could have become an effective leader sooner if I had a community of support of others who could guide and mentor me. I want to make sure members in our district know they are not alone.

I believe equity in science education can be elevated through a strong community of science education leaders. I have seen this play out over the last six years as I have served in multiple positions on the SC Science Education Leadership Association (SCSELA) board. I have helped build a community of science education leaders where veteran leaders are relied on for their expertise and new leaders are embraced and mentored. Racial and socioeconomic disparities between school districts means that not all students receive high quality science education. In my tenure on the SCSELA board, I have ensured that our meetings and resources always center equity in science education. SCSELA members experience community building, exceptional professional learning, and opportunities for collaboration. Communication about local, state, and national science education-related information is quickly shared. It is making a difference in the lives of our teachers and students.

As I have served on the NSELA Membership Committee, and now chair a subcommittee, I see opportunities to bring my experience with a state-level affiliate to the national stage. I believe we can work together with our members to build a strong community of support. When science education leaders are supported, they can support their teachers with the goal of improving science education for all students.

I have been a science educator for more than 30 years, including 11 years as a district science education leader. I am ready to serve as NSELA District C Director. I have the experience and dedication to fulfill the duties and responsibilities that come with this position.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

To promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within NSELA and its programs, policies, and practices, I first commit to acknowledging my privilege as a white woman. I have come to realize that my perspective might not be relevant to the communities I serve. Looking at our work through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion makes me stop and question if that work benefits all people. I will take the time to learn about community cultures, to recognize and honor different voices, and to speak for marginalized populations. Science education should be inclusive and culturally responsive. NSELA leadership and membership should reflect the communities we serve. I commit to recruiting and supporting members from these diverse communities.

Vision for NSELA

My vision to help NSELA advance science education leadership is to have our disparate members connect through smaller communities. I envision affinity groups that meet regularly in virtual spaces to share experiences, resources, and advice. Members would be able to initiate an affinity group and invite others who share the same interest, passion, struggle, or identity. This helps build a safe space where science leaders can share freely. This would advance science education leadership by helping members build leadership capacity while also networking nationally. It is imperative to encourage more diverse science educators to become leaders and to stay in leadership. I want to see our membership grow while also reflecting the communities we serve.