Tashiba Graham

Equity is simply providing various levels of support, assistance, and advocacy, all dictated by the specific needs or abilities of the intended recipients.

First, by acknowledging and understanding the budget. Second, through accountability and advocacy. Simply speaking up from the perspective of the often forgotten or overlooked populations. As a VP of Operations with a MBA, budget transparency is required.

First making sure that parents/guardians/students are aware of the resources. Oftentimes, I find that people are simply unaware. Followed by holding forums (Q&As) that allows for interactive collaborative dialogue. Lastly, leveraging PSAs as this is a mode of communication that could assist students. Also, being that voice that forces the other board members to view key topics from a different perspective.

Again, PSAs that focus on conflict resolution, peer pressure, harassment, peer violence, and boundaries. Monthly assemblies and collateral that reiterate and focus on the aforementioned topics and others. Increasing SROs is not ideal as it relates to disciplining students of color.

History needs to be taught from a factual perspective that is comprehensive. Moreover, we should not whitewash or sanitize our school's curriculum or bend to the will of divisive rhetoric. More importantly, I believe our district is responsible for ensuring our school's curriculum is inclusive and representative of our communities and country.

Yes, of course. I support this statement because students DESERVE access to education without any exclusive criteria. Representation matters! When I think of addressing DEI concerns, I often ask myself, does this organization have enough diversity? I believe having allies is essential in combating discrimination. However, I think having people in leadership positions that reflect community and student body members is equally important. I am in this race today because I want to ensure children in the special needs community receive the same advocacy our children in regular education receive. I advocate for the physically disabled to ensure that those children and families have a voice on our school board. I believe diversity strengthens our community, and more importantly, I think diversity is the hallmark of our nation.

Yes, inclusivity in action. Furthermore, in general, policies that affirm the rights and full inclusion of LGBTQ+ children and staff in schools are considered to be important steps towards creating safe and inclusive learning environments for all students. Such policies can help to prevent discrimination, harassment, and bullying based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. They can also promote the well-being of LGBTQ+ students by fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, which in turn can improve academic achievement and overall mental health.

Our district must have a bigger presence on social media to combat bullying and harassment. We must become more proactive in preventing online incidents from spilling over in our school communities.

We need to inform our children about the impact of harassment, violence, and trauma and how those things lead to depression, anxiety, and retaliation. To address these concerns, I suggest bringing additional resources into our school communities. For instance, PSAs, collateral resources, and monthly assembly promoting conflict resolution skills and tolerance, respect, and relationship building.

Absolutely! Having a fundamental understanding of the content discussed during school meetings and events is invaluable. Furthermore, I believe that the widespread availability of translated materials is essential for promoting access to information and ensuring equitable opportunities for people who speak different languages. Access to translated materials can help individuals who are non-native speakers of a particular language to better understand important information, make informed decisions, and participate more fully in society.

Yes. When you see it, you believe it! Also, there are cultural implications that can’t be minimized but are culitavted when there is a lack of diversity. To this end, the promotion of diversity in schools is important not only for the educational experiences of individual students, but also for creating a more just and equitable society. By valuing and celebrating diversity in schools, we can help to create a world where everyone's differences are respected and appreciated.

There is no reason for any of our schools to have lead anywhere in the buildings. We have the resource to remove lead based paint and plumbing from our buildings. I will work with school administrators to ensure no Appoquinimink schools has any traces of lead within our facilities.

We do not want any children suffering the consequences of lead poisoning or any other complications.