Since the year 2000, Ankeny has grown by 154%, growing more diverse and multicultural. In turn, the student population has grown more diverse and multicultural.

A robust Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program is necessary to help students feel welcome in Ankeny Schools.

As a member of the Ankeny School Board, I will advocate for:

-The DEI Director to be fully supported by the board.

-Funding to be made available to fully develop a DEI program.

-The board to make a long term commitment to implementing DEI policies and programs.

Students and communities benefit alike from having a diverse school staff.

As a member of the Ankeny School Board, I will work to recruit qualified LGBTQ+ candidates and candidates of color to Ankeny Schools.

Furthermore, I will work to retain our diverse staff after they have been hired, creating an environment where they can grow and succeed professionally.

In 2021, the Ankeny School Board moved to ban a number of books. After significant backlash, the Board only banned the book "Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe.

As a country built on freedom of speech, thought and expression, the very idea of censoring books runs counter to our founding principles.

As a member of the Ankeny School Board, I will oppose book bans whenever and however possible.