My Candidacy
WHY I'M RUNNING
I am running for school board because I am the right person at the right time. I am a reading specialist and Westonka is implementing the READ Act. I have worked extensively with students from the district, and am in a unique position to provide input on their needs and concerns. I am passionate about literacy and getting all our students reading at grade level. Our schools are highly ranked for reading and math, but there is more to be done (currently 77% of students are proficient at grade level). It is imperative we teach our students to read, write, and think to the best of their abilities.
MY VISION
My vision is simple: Let's get all of our students reading at grade level. Let's teach our students to read, write, and think to the best of their abilities. I strive to equip students to use technology wisely, but to rely on their own intellect to navigate their work. The pervasive presence of digital tools in education today is hobbling our students. Students rely on us to help them best address the rapidly changing, often disorienting world. Technology may be present but should not be controlling in the classroom.
SCHOOL BOARD AND CURRICULA
One of the most important roles of the school board is to guide curricula and provide for the educational needs of our students. As a reading specialist and speech-language pathologist, I am uniquely qualified to provide input and insight into our district-wide implementation of the READ Act. With the advent of AI into all spheres of life, it is more crucial than ever that the board provide guidance in how best to equip our students to learn and thrive.
BUDGET AND FINANCE
As we do in our personal lives, the board must ensure the district is saving and planning for the future. The board must focus on areas of funding that are most crucial to learning, and strive to preserve and improve those. Being open to creative ways of doing things, avoiding duplication, and harnessing community members are all strategies that can ensure a sound fiscal future.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
My professional experience as a reading specialist, trained in the Science of Reading, positions me perfectly to work as a board member, providing input on educational policy changes and improvements. I have seen first-hand how students can blossom, gain confidence and agency, and have pride in their learning, when they receive optimal, evidence-based instruction. I hope to be able to lend my skills to the project of helping launch well-adjusted, well-educated students from our Westonka schools.
Lizz Kahnke, M.A., CCC-SLP; C-OGRS 1,2
Reading Specialist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Mom of three boys