What I’ve Learned From Talking With Voters
Talking with voters over the past few weeks has been one of the most meaningful parts of this campaign. I expected to hear concerns about taxes, academics, and school operations. I did not expect so many thoughtful, nuanced conversations about belonging, the arts, mental health, and what kind of community people want Haldane to be.
I’ve been reminded that our community cares deeply about our schools - even when people disagree about specific decisions or priorities. Most people simply want to feel heard, respected, and included in the conversation.
One conversation that truly surprised me centered on the arts. I have always been so impressed by Haldane’s commitment to music, theater, visual arts, and creative opportunities for students. Over the past few weeks alone, I’ve watched incredible student performances and seen firsthand how the arts create connection and belonging for so many kids.
But this voter shared concerns that we could still do more. Instead of criticizing the district, she offered thoughtful and inspiring ideas: stronger partnerships with local museums, collaborations with arts organizations, expanded community programming, and more opportunities for students to engage creatively beyond the classroom. I walked away grateful for the conversation and reminded that listening carefully - even when the initial idea is so at odds with my perspective - often opens the door to even better ideas.
I have also been deeply moved by conversations with retirees and longtime residents living on fixed incomes who no longer have children in the district - yet remain unwavering in their support for public education. Over and over, I heard versions of the same sentiment:
“Other Cold Spring residents paid for my kids back in the day. Now it’s my turn to pay for yours.”
And:
“A well-funded school is good for the entire community.”
At a time when financial pressures are very real for many families, these conversations have reminded me how connected people feel to Haldane and how strongly they believe that excellent schools strengthen the whole community.
Another theme that has emerged repeatedly is equity, inclusion, and belonging. Many voters expressed concerns about whether all students and families truly feel supported and represented within our schools. What struck me most was that people were not necessarily demanding quick fixes or simplistic solutions. More than anything, they wanted genuine listening and thoughtful engagement.
I have taken many notes after each of these conversations and have been reflecting carefully on the ideas people shared. I believe we can continue building a school community where more students and families feel seen, supported, and connected - and where difficult conversations are handled with empathy, openness, and care.
I also heard a strong desire for more teacher training and support around mental health, neurodiversity, and identity. This is an area where I feel especially energized because it sits directly at the intersection of my professional expertise and my passion for education. Teachers today are navigating increasingly complex emotional, behavioral, and learning needs in the classroom. They deserve support, consultation, and practical tools.
I would love to partner with parents, educators, administrators, and community organizations to think creatively about how we can strengthen training, collaboration, and supports for both students and staff.
Finally, many voters shared disappointment about the Board’s 2025 decision to temporarily pause the district’s DEI policy based on legal advice. In several of these conversations, I found that simply slowing down, listening carefully, and responding empathically helped repair some of the hurt and frustration people were carrying. That experience reinforced something I believe strongly: communities do not become stronger by avoiding difficult conversations. We become stronger by engaging in them thoughtfully, respectfully, and with genuine curiosity about one another’s experiences.
What I’m learning from voters is that this community cares deeply - about excellence, inclusion, fiscal responsibility, the arts, mental health, and one another. People may not always agree on every issue, but there is far more shared commitment than division. That gives me a great deal of hope.
When and Where to Vote
The Haldane School Budget Vote and Trustee Election will take place:
Tuesday, May 19
7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Haldane Elementary Library
