Letter: Plans to address if elected

On Nov. 7, I hope to be elected to the Carlisle school board along with my fellow Citizens for Carlisle Schools, Paula Bussard, Bruce Clash, George Stroud and Jon Tarrant. There are five openings on a nine-member board. There is much at stake.

Along with legions of dedicated volunteers, we have knocked on countless doors, had illuminating conversations and have run a vigorous campaign to communicate our priorities to you: putting students first, respecting families and teachers, improving transparency and accountability, preserving local control and safeguarding taxpayer dollars. In my view, these are minimum expectations for any board member.

So, if elected, what will I actually do that will advance education in our district? I have two ideas that grow out of my experience as a science teacher and teacher educator.

First, there is a nationwide teacher shortage, particularly in mathematics, traditional science subjects, computer science and engineering. The numbers of students pursuing teaching licenses has plummeted, and universities are re-tooling programs to get working professionals into classrooms.

I would like to work with the administration and teachers to create more systematic pathways that welcome career-changing professionals, including military veterans, into our classrooms.

School districts can issue emergency certification and hire professionals when no other qualified applicants are available. They must eventually obtain permanent certification and the district could assist with, for example, extensive mentorship, periodic release time and summer stipends.

Second, I would like to establish a formal way to hear student voices. I recommend forming an advisory group comprised of a wide range of students nominated by their teachers and administrators. Such a group could regularly meet with a board liaison and offer feedback and recommendations at board meetings.

Both ideas reflect my core values as a lifelong educator and those of my fellow Citizens for Carlisle Schools.

Joseph Shane

Candidate for Carlisle Area School Board

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