What is your stance on curriculum choices, including state standards, standardized testing, and curriculum diversity?
Curriculum choices are one of the most important areas of focus for any school district. I believe in providing a balanced and diversified curriculum that prepares every student for success, whether they choose a college track, a vocational path, or enlist in military service. Our district must equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in whichever future they pursue. Here’s how I approach curriculum choices:
Supporting Both College and Vocational Tracks Not every student’s journey looks the same, and our curriculum must reflect that reality. While we continue to strengthen our college-preparatory programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes and partnerships for dual credit courses, we must also expand opportunities for vocational and technical education. Students who pursue vocational careers should graduate with industry-recognized certifications and skills that make them career-ready, ensuring their success in high-demand fields like healthcare, construction, technology, and skilled trades.
Introducing ROTC Programs Another critical option is introducing ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) programs in our district. ROTC programs provide leadership training, discipline, and character development while opening doors for students interested in military careers or scholarship opportunities. These programs can also help foster a sense of responsibility and civic engagement, aligning with our district’s goal of shaping well-rounded citizens.
Diversifying and Expanding AP and Dual Credit Offerings To prepare students for the rigor of college, I strongly support the diversification and expansion of AP courses. Offering a wider variety of AP classes—ranging from core academic areas to subjects like computer science, environmental science, and the arts—allows students to explore their interests while earning college credit. Similarly, we should continue our dual credit partnerships, ensuring students have access to affordable, high-quality college-level courses while still in high school.
Meeting and Exceeding State Standards While Reducing the Burden of Standardized Testing While state standards provide a framework for academic success, we must ensure our curriculum goes beyond minimum requirements to inspire critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. At the same time, we must advocate for reducing the overemphasis on standardized testing. These tests can often overshadow real learning and place unnecessary stress on students and teachers. Instead, I support assessments that measure growth and learning in more meaningful, diverse ways.
Ensuring Curriculum Diversity and Inclusivity A well-rounded education includes exposing students to diverse perspectives, histories, and cultures. By offering a curriculum that celebrates inclusivity and fosters critical thinking, we prepare students to navigate a diverse world with empathy and understanding. Whether through literature, history, or extracurricular activities, diversity in our curriculum should empower students to think globally while acting locally.
Engaging the Community in Curriculum Decisions Finally, curriculum choices should involve input from educators, parents, and students. Open dialogue about the needs and goals of our community ensures that the programs we offer are relevant and impactful.
By offering a robust and diversified curriculum that includes strong college-prep pathways, vocational training, and ROTC programs, we can prepare every student in Lake Travis ISD for a successful and fulfilling future.