What is your vision for preparing students for the economic and civic realities of the future?

TL;DR: I want our students to have the creativity and critical thinking skills that provide a strong financial foundation. Our new graduates have to face rising housing costs, debt, and youth unemployment and they are losing faith in democracy. With the accelerated pace of change due to AI, it is even more important for us to cultivate resilient, “AI-proof” thinkers and doers.

My goal is for our students to flourish as independent adults, prepared for a world being reshaped by technology and economic instability. I often joke that this means they have the financial security to not live in my basement, but the reality behind that joke is serious. Today’s young adults face rising housing costs, rising unemployment, and rising levels of debt. When Baby Boomers were young adults, they held 21% of the nation’s wealth. Millennials hold 3%. This isn't just about finances; it's the bedrock of our democracy. Studies show that as young people lose ground economically, they also lose faith in our democratic institutions.

My leadership style leans toward being part of the solution over a bystander. I support our schools fulfilling their promise as the engine of opportunity by building an education that prepares students for economic reality. This includes career externships, financial literacy, and—most importantly—the vital, human skills like critical thinking and collaboration that cannot be replicated by AI. By investing in our students' ability to achieve economic independence, we cultivate resilient, "AI-proof" thinkers and doers who will restore faith in the future and keep our democracy strong.

That means not only supporting our schools, but also the curriculum, teaching, and culture that help shape young people into kind, compassionate, and responsible citizens who are equipped to lead with empathy and integrity in their communities. We should invest in resources and programs that help every student feel valued and supported, strengthen their sense of belonging, and promote mental health and emotional well-being as essential parts of a quality education.