As the November elections approach, residents of the Higley Unified School District face an important decision that will shape the future of education in their community. Candidates Taylor Francis, Sara Jarman, and Marc Garcia are campaigning for seats on the school board, each highlighting a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
When evaluating school board candidates, voters typically look for qualities such as a strong emphasis on student achievement, fiscal responsibility, and transparency in decision-making. Candidates should also recognize the critical role curriculum development plays in fostering student success. These candidates are committed to improving educational standards and establishing measurable goals for academic progress. A firm grasp of financial management and a clear vision for the district’s future are equally essential.
In the 2023-2024 school year, only 47% of children residing within Higley district boundaries enrolled in its schools. By the second quarter of 2024, around 1,600 students from the district were participating in Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA), a significant rise from just 175 in the same period in 2021. This trend underscores the pressing need for candidates who can rebuild trust in the district’s academic curriculum and programs, creating an environment that attracts families back to Higley schools. When enrollment drops, so does the funding for schools. Public school funding is often tied to student attendance, meaning fewer students results in less financial support from both state and federal sources. Maximizing student enrollment is therefore crucial for sustaining adequate funding to support a high-quality learning environment.
Despite the district’s impressive 96% graduation rate, academic proficiency scores tell a different story. Math proficiency stands at 56%, English Language Arts at 60%, and Science lags behind at a concerning 37%. These figures reveal a clear gap in academic performance. Voters are seeking school board members who will take decisive action to improve these scores and ensure that district resources are effectively used to enhance student learning outcomes.
Meet the Candidates:
Taylor Francis
Taylor Francis brings a strong commitment to education quality, transparency, and community engagement. With a background in aviation safety, Francis understands the need for accountability and clear communication. He advocates for increased parental involvement in decision-making and supports the idea that parents should have a say in the educational content their children receive.
Sara Jarman
A mother of five and long-time community member, Sara Jarman is focused on improving student outcomes while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely. She emphasizes academic rigor, transparency, and effective communication, aiming to rebuild trust between the district and its families.
Marc Garcia
U.S. Air Force veteran Marc Garcia brings leadership and a commitment to both academic excellence and student safety. He advocates for better resources for teachers and clear communication with families, ensuring that parents’ voices are heard in school policies.
Why Vote for Francis, Jarman, and Garcia?
- They prioritize a return to strong academic values, ensuring students are well-prepared for the future.
- They are committed to restoring trust between the district, parents and the community, emphasizing transparency and collaboration.
- They recognize the importance of safety in schools, advocating for secure campuses.
- They support initiatives that uphold parents’ rights in guiding their children’s education.
- They are committed to accountability and responsible spending, ensuring tax dollars are directed to the classroom. This includes prioritizing fair teacher compensation and providing students with the resources they need to succeed. By maximizing funds for educational improvement and minimizing waste, they aim to enhance both student outcomes and the overall efficiency of the district.
In conclusion, Taylor Francis, Sara Jarman, and Marc Garcia offer a balanced combination of academic focus, transparency, and community engagement. Their shared vision for the future of Higley schools makes them strong contenders in the upcoming election. Voting for these candidates will help ensure the district’s future success.
For more information on their campaigns, visit their websites and social media pages.
Taylor Francis
https://www.facebook.com/francisforhigley
www.francisforhigley.com
Sara Jarman
https://www.facebook.com/votesarajarmanvote
www.votesarajarman.com
Marc Garcia
https://www.facebook.com/marc4husd
https://www.instagram.com/marc4husd
