As a Citrus County teacher, Laura Gatling-Wright has a deep appreciation for the challenges and triumphs our educators face.
Staffing & Compensation:
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Citrus County faces challenges with staffing, particularly in areas like transportation, due to competitive pay and benefits offered by surrounding counties.
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Insurance costs, especially for family plans, are prohibitive and must be addressed to attract and retain qualified employees.
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Lack of parental leave policies and clear guidelines for behavior management contribute to difficulties in retaining staff.
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Increased administrator visibility is an important element in shaping a proactive approach to behaviors.
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Alternative incentives, such as improved insurance, parental leave policies, and childcare options, could make the Citrus County School Board (CCSB) more attractive to potential staff.
Curriculum & Resources:
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Ensuring that curriculum and content adhere to standards while maintaining rigor is essential for student success.
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Teachers should have access to research-based resources and materials that meet the needs of diverse learners.
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Incentivizing certifications can help address the shortage of qualified personnel.
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I pledge to continue building relationships with families and caregivers, providing transparency, and access to their child’s education.
Support for Educators:
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Vague legislative language can create uncertainty among educators. Clear guidelines are key to effective classroom management and curriculum implementation.
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Providing curriculum guidelines and vetted resources at the district level can alleviate the burden on teachers and ensure compliance with standards.
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Protecting teachers' planning time and ensuring manageable workloads are crucial for their effectiveness and well-being.
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Attracting and retaining qualified staff is essential for student success and community investment.
Career Readiness:
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Advocating for changes in requirements to remove barriers to graduation is important for students, particularly those pursuing career and technical education (CTE).
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Expanding dual enrollment and trade certification programs will promote career readiness and help meet workforce demands.
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Establishing trades academies could address staffing shortages and provide students with diverse career pathways.
Support Safe Schools:
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I pledge to advocate for a review of bullying policies to ensure consistency of consequences and promote school safety.
To learn more, check out my bio or visit us on Facebook: @laura4ccsb