Tempe Union High School Board Member

Sarah James




Home | Platform

Platform

Student Mental Health

“Tempe Union has committed to taking care of our students’ social and emotional wellness. We know students cannot learn if their basic needs are not being met, so taking care of their mental health is paramount. I have seen firsthand students who desperately need counseling services and interventions, but our schools are under-staffed and our students suffer. The pandemic is exacerbating this issue; students are coping with the sadness and anxiety of the shutdown, they are experiencing isolation and insecurities, and they have a constant worry about getting sick. I will be an advocate for services in our schools that will serve our students’ mental health needs.” - Sarah James Campaign

Educator Support System

“As a teacher, I know the importance of having a board that trusts educators and truly have our best interests at heart. I believe that if we are truly going to have an educational system that is best for kids, we must take care of our educators. When educators are empowered and trusted to work with students and their families to figure out what is best for their students, everyone wins. Teaching is an art-form where creativity and data can work together, and our educators know best how to make that happen. We must allow educators to use their craft, connect with students, and bring joy into learning and teaching.” - Sarah James Campaign

Equity

“I have witnessed the need for change in my 21-year journey as an educator involved in equity work. Ensuring our curriculum honors and represents our black students and students of color is vital, and providing a safe environment for our LGBTQ students is literally a matter of life and death. Advocating for restorative justice programs and revising discipline practices will be at the forefront of my priorities. All students deserve an education that values and represents them.” - Sarah James Campaign