Every student should feel safe, welcome, and free to be themselves in school, no matter who they are or where their parents are from. When our students truly feel that sense of belonging, they're already on the right track for success.

We also need to recognize that some students may not receive all the support they need outside of school, whether due to demanding family circumstances or unstable living situations, and I center those students in every decision I make.

Vermillion's teachers are second to none. I truly believe that. We need to support them and treat them like the professionals they are. And part of that support is being responsible with the district's finances. A recent dip in enrollment—coupled with lower-than-inflation increases to statewide education funding—has stretched our budget, but our administration has worked hard to avoid cuts to staffing or curriculum. This challenge will likely continue in the near future, so we must be vigilant to ensure we don't compromise on our commitment our teachers and our educational mission. Our teachers are our school's greatest asset, and we need to do everything we can to support them and the work they do.

"We Are Kind, Safe, and Responsible." - Vermillion Elementary Motto

While our primary mission is education, we're also ultimately working to shape our future citizens and leaders. While excellent test scores will always be something we strive for, it's equally important that we teach (and show) our children how to be good people. My wife and I emphasize this to our kids all the time:  while we're always thrilled to see a great spelling test or A's on a report card, nothing can match someone telling us how kind they are, or that they're a good friend.