Why I'm running for re-election to the Berkeley School Board

By Karen (Johnson) Hemphill

I successfully fought for the adoption of the first district-wide student achievement plan and since its adoption, we've made remarkable and consistent academic success in furthering the education of all students - focusing on critical thinking, literacy, and math confidence. I have also successfully championed anti-bullying, conflict resolution, and family partnership programs as well as the important role that music, art, gardening, and other hands-on learning experiences play in developing a life-long joy of learning for our students.

So what I believe distinguishes me is just this experience. I have a proven track record of how to lead our school administrators, our families, the City and other public agencies, including our local university and community college as well as the broader community, in furthering student learning. And, I have earned a reputation in thoughtfully hearing and carefully considering all voices before making decisions.

If re-elected, my first priority is to continue providing leadership in building upon our successes in advancing student achievement through focusing on 21st Century curriculum/Common Core educational priorities, teacher training/evaluation, and early/consistent academic and social-emotional intervention. I also will continue to emphasize sound fiscal management and creative partnerships with the City, our university and community college, local non-profits, and other community members and am committed to the development of a District-wide Facilities Master Plan that will address classroom, technology, career-technical, and athletic space needs.

I also plan to lead the Board in developing a strong career-technical program that is tied to expectations of college preparedness. We need to open our student's eyes to all possibilities - becoming the next generation of innovators (future inventors, engineers, artists/artisans, and scientists); becoming our nation's highly skilled workforce able to compete in the new global economy; and/or becoming tomorrow's entrepreneurs - so they are prepared to take their place in the world.