Josh's Priorities

“Studies have shown that student outcomes improve when students see people who look like them as teachers and other educators. I can say from personal experience that representation is a powerful way to encourage and motivate students.”

“I am a bridge builder. I firmly believe that many problems can be avoided through better understanding. We have more in common than divisive speech would have people believe. The understanding of cultural bias differences is something that we need to improve in our schools for the betterment of students who have struggles and have been singled out. We also need to have teachers who have been educated and trained on these issues that many students deal with on a regular basis.”

“While some students have parents who have the time and expertise and resources to help with homework and reinforce lessons outside of the classroom, others do not. Still others need all the extra support they can get. I believe that providing more tutoring opportunities for more students, especially when they are young, has multiple benefits and will help ensure success across the board.”

“As a football player, I was fortunate to have a sense of belonging and motivation at school. Athletics are great for that and so are the arts. While we have good arts programs in our schools, I think we need to focus on making sure that every student who wants to participate in them can do so. The arts are not frivolous or supplemental; they are essential and we need to protect and enhance our arts programs, not cut them.”