Student Safety

Student safety is the cornerstone of an effective education system. As a parent and community member, I am committed to creating schools where every child feels secure, respected, and protected from harm. This means addressing threats like sexual predators, racism, and antisemitism head-on with transparent policies, swift action, and accountability.

Recent events in our district, such as the allegations against former teacher Chris Twombley, highlight the need for stronger safeguards. The district’s handling of these complaints, which spanned years without adequate resolution, underscores the importance of prompt investigations and parental notifications. We must implement clear reporting mechanisms, protect whistleblowers, and ensure offenders are held accountable to prevent such failures in the future.

For more details on the Twombley case, read the full investigation. Additional details obtained by public records requests are here.

Incidents of hate, like the antisemitic and racist graffiti discovered at Islander Middle School in early 2025, have no place in our community. This vandalism, which included swastikas and derogatory phrases, caused distress and highlighted the ongoing need to foster a culture of inclusion and respect. We must educate students on tolerance, respond decisively to hate crimes, and work with law enforcement to prevent recurrence.

In the wake of events like the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, our schools should prioritize education over political activism during school hours. I do not support excusing students to participate in protests that celebrate or glorify violence, such as those marking the anniversary of the attack. Schools must maintain a neutral, safe environment focused on learning, while encouraging civic engagement outside of class time.

By prioritizing these measures, we can build a safer, more inclusive district where students thrive. I pledge to advocate for policies that protect our children and hold the administration accountable.