Melissa Cullum for School Board
Investing in Futures
Join the conversation to redefine educational opportunities and improve learning outcomes for all students through innovative approaches, community connections and strategic planning. I am committed to ensuring every child receives a quality education tailored to their needs. With your support we can foster a more connected and empowered school community.
Preliminary Results
Throughout the campaign I've enjoyed getting to exchange ideas with lots of new people and learn more about how the district could better serve the students based on their experiences. This by far was one of my favorite parts of the campaign process. So whether you've been in my circle of conversations on public education and our schools, worked with me in various volunteer roles, know me from around town, or met me through this campaign; our conversations helped get me here. Thanks for the encouraging words early on, the rapid response for signature collection so I could be on the ballot, and being willing to display and hold signs to show your support.
It has all helped and I thank you! And now....the preliminary results. A second round of preliminary results will come out Oct. 10 so this information will be updated as needed.
Interviews and Profiles
CBJ Candidate Profile
Juneau Independent Candidate Profile
League of Women Voters Candidate Forum
Juneau Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum
Student-Centered
Solutions
Innovative Approaches
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Increase the variety of class options for middle and high school students
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Improve homeschool, dual enrollment and high school transitions
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Develop creative learning opportunities: magnet programs, internships, mentor programs and apprenticeships
Community Connections
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Give community members a voice
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Work to make meetings less intimidating and more effective
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Shorten the length of meetings
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Open communication between key stakeholders: students, teachers, parents and community members
Strategic Planning
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Create a 5-year strategic plan that outlines achievement, relationships, partnerships and equity goals designed to educate the whole student
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Establish open channels of communication so stakeholders' concerns are addressed
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Develop measurable objectives and goals, re-assess annually, and adhere to the plan guidelines
A Passion for Education
About Me
Before moving to Alaska over 20 years ago, I taught adult ESL classes while earning my degree in creative writing. The joy I got from working with others inspired me to pursue a career in education. Shortly after graduation I took my first teaching job as a middle school language arts teacher. I worked in that school for 5 years before leaving to earn my TEFL certification to be able to teach internationally. During my search for jobs I stumbled upon a position for a high school language arts teacher in Angoon, AK.
My love for adventure allowed me to take the leap that was only supposed to last for a year. In Angoon I taught everything from middle school and high school language arts, journalism and debate to art classes and even coached volleyball before my family moved to Juneau.
In addition to my many years in a classroom, I homeschooled my children as well as offered classes to other homeschool families. Homeschooling made me re-examine the role of public education and gave the idea of student-centered a new meaning. My experience as an educator and homeschool parent along with my knowledge of the district's daily operations and facilities allow me to look at the district from a unique perspective.
Since my time in the classroom I have remained an advocate for public education. have stayed up to date on educational policy and funding, marched with teachers on the capital, repeated requested for an increase in the BSA (base student allocation) as well as maintained relationships with teachers and administrators throughout the district and the lower 48.
I know what it takes to motivate students to want to learn. I understand the struggles teachers face with the ever growing demand for increased performance and limited resources. I know what it means to want the best education possible for your child. I will listen to community concerns and move towards action so all students feel represented and have access to quality education.
Some family fun with me behind the camera as usual.
Goal reached!
$1,010 raised
13 donations
101%
This campaign has reached its fundraising goal and is no longer accepting donations. We appreciate your support!