Advocating for Better Financial Governance

Education is the cornerstone of opportunity, empowerment, and community growth. In the Ferguson Florissant School District, where 93% of our student population comes from minority backgrounds, the stakes are even higher. For many of our students, a quality education is not just a pathway to success—it is a lifeline to a brighter future. As a candidate for the Ferguson Florissant Board of Education, I am committed to ensuring that student achievement and experience are at the forefront of every decision we make. A vote for me is a vote to prioritize our students, improve their academic outcomes, and create a more equitable and enriching learning environment for all.

Student achievement is more than just test scores; it is about equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in life. A positive student experience, on the other hand, ensures that our schools are safe, supportive, and inspiring places where every child feels valued and motivated to learn. When we prioritize these two pillars, we create a foundation for lifelong success, stronger communities, and a more just society.

For our district, where many students face systemic barriers to educational advancement, this focus is especially critical. By addressing these challenges head-on, we can level the playing field and provide every student with the tools they need to thrive. Better student achievement and experience lead to:

• Higher Graduation Rates: Students who feel supported and engaged are more likely to stay in school and graduate.
• Increased Opportunities: Academic success opens doors to college, careers, and beyond, breaking cycles of poverty and inequality.
• Stronger Communities: Well-educated students grow into empowered adults who contribute positively to their communities.

If elected to the Ferguson Florissant Board of Education, I will work tirelessly to ensure that every policy, program, and dollar spent prioritizes the advancement of our students. Here’s how we can achieve this together:

• Implement Rigorous, Inclusive Curriculum: Ensure that our curriculum is both challenging and culturally relevant, reflecting the diverse experiences of our students.
• Expand Access to Advanced Courses: Increase opportunities for students to enroll in Advanced Placement (AP), dual-credit, and honors courses.
• Targeted Interventions: Provide additional resources and support for students who are struggling academically, including tutoring, mentoring, and summer enrichment programs.

• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Integrate SEL programs into the curriculum to help students develop resilience, empathy, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Anti-Bullying Initiatives: Strengthen policies and programs to ensure that every student feels safe and respected at school.
• Celebrate Diversity: Create events and programs that honor the cultural backgrounds of our students and foster a sense of belonging.

• Professional Development: Provide ongoing training for teachers and staff on culturally responsive teaching, trauma-informed practices, and innovative instructional strategies.
• Competitive Compensation: Advocate for fair salaries and benefits to attract and retain high-quality educators.
• Classroom Resources: Ensure that teachers have the tools and materials they need to deliver effective instruction.

• Parental Involvement: Create opportunities for parents to actively participate in their children’s education, such as workshops, family nights, and volunteer programs.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and colleges to provide mentorship, internships, and real-world learning experiences for students.
• Transparent Communication: Keep families informed about school policies, programs, and student progress through regular updates and open forums.

• Digital Equity: Ensure that all students have access to devices and high-speed internet, both at school and at home.
• Personalized Learning: Use technology to tailor instruction to individual student needs, allowing them to learn at their own pace.
• STEM and Career Readiness: Expand programs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), as well as career and technical education (CTE), to prepare students for high-demand jobs.

• Equity Audits: Conduct regular assessments to identify and address disparities in resources, opportunities, and outcomes.
• Wrap-Around Services: Provide access to mental health counseling, nutrition programs, and other support services to address barriers to learning.
• Early Childhood Education: Invest in high-quality pre-K programs to ensure that all children start school ready to succeed.

When we prioritize student achievement and experience, the benefits extend far beyond the classroom. Higher graduation rates and improved academic outcomes lead to a more skilled workforce, stronger local economies, and safer neighborhoods. For our students, many of whom face systemic challenges, these opportunities can be life-changing. By breaking down barriers and providing equitable access to quality education, we can help close the achievement gap and create a more just and inclusive society.

The Ferguson Florissant School District has the potential to be a model of transparency and communication in public education. But achieving this vision requires leadership that is committed to openness, accountability, and collaboration. VOTE TWICE FOR VIVIAN D. MANSARAY to prioritize transparency and communication at every level of our district. Together, we can build a school system that not only serves our students but also empowers our community.

Let’s work together to create a future where every voice is heard, every decision is understood, and every student has the opportunity to succeed. Our community deserves nothing less.