Education

My great-grandmother, Rosie, grew up in an era where literacy among African Americans was far from encouraged in rural Alabama. Despite facing barriers to education herself, she understood its enduring value and empowered me to pursue knowledge as a priceless asset. Her legacy lives on through my commitment to ensuring education remains a top priority in supporting the next generation of Americans.

Our schools play a crucial role in shaping future generations as productive members of society. Instead of focusing on essential skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic, some argue that education has become embroiled in divisive cultural debates, diverting attention from academic excellence and practical preparation for life.

What Neighbors Are Saying

Neighbors across the district tell me:

• Classrooms feel stretched and understaffed
• Parents want more transparency and local input
• Not every student is on a four-year college path and that’s okay
• Schools need support, not constant policy swings from Olympia

Families want results, not politics, in the classroom.

cARMEN’S Approach to Education

I believe education works best when parents, teachers, and communities are respected partners.

That means:

• Supporting strong K–12 education with stable funding and clear priorities
• Expanding career and technical education, apprenticeships, and job training
• Respecting parents’ voices in their children’s education
• Focusing on outcomes, not bureaucracy

Our goal should be simple: prepare students for success no matter what path they choose.