Hello, I'm Michelle. Here's why I decided to run for office.
Hi, and welcome! I want to share a bit about the real me. I grew up in Kansas and I went to public school here—from kindergarten all the way through two bachelor's degrees and a master's degree. My mom raised me and my siblings as a single parent and it wasn't always easy. She showed me how to work hard for what you want. So I did. But it was also access to education and the support of teachers and caring adults that helped me find my way.
When I was 13, I got a job as a paper delivery girl. The only route available was about a mile from my house, so most days I had to ride my bike to the route, deliver the papers, and then ride home. I also babysat regularly for several years, working for neighbors and building relationships with families. At 16 I started working at a fast food chain, and by the time I was 18, I was managing a restaurant.
At the age of 12 I took up the art of clowning. (Yep, you read that right. I still dress up and perform for parties!) I volunteered at a nursing home in my hometown for nearly 5 years. My grandma introduced me to clowning. She taught me the value of play, silliness, riding my bike, swimming, board games and togetherness. Importantly, she also showed me how engaging with my community could create a sense of belonging.
When I was in 6th grade, I failed my first ever subject at school. I’d always been a great student, but things in my life outside school began to change, and my grades suffered. I held on as well as I could through middle school and high school, but, senior year, I failed two classes I needed to graduate. I ultimately decided to test for my Kansas State Diploma. That year, Mr. Bob Aman, a teacher who had known me since middle school, was teaching the test preparation course. Mr. Aman was so encouraging and had such confidence in my ability that I began to believe I could pick myself up and pass. I did, with flying colors.
Two years into that job at the fast food restaurant, I realized I wanted to go to college. So, at 20, I dove in, taking a credit load of 15 hours while working full time. I failed hard that first year. But, with a TON of support from family, friends, a few professors, and even one middle school teacher (thanks Mr. Rathbone!), I kept trying and finally graduated. By then I had my feet under me and I was able to get my master's degree, graduating with honors.
Throughout my childhood challenges, I had the support and patience of many caring adults. That’s the reason I am who I am today. Now, with the support of my incredible partner, I run my own business as a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, I have completed a Half Iron-(wo)man triathlon, several half-marathons, and recently finished the Unbound gravel 100-mile bike race with my fastest time in 3 finishes! We have two wonderful children, one in public school and another who will be there in a few short years.
I have always wanted to be a supportive, caring adult to kids because of the support I had growing up. I’ve been able to provide some of that support in my professional work, and, now it’s time for me to step up in a different way. I believe that all children deserve a top-tier education. With the federal threats to the Department of Education, it is even more urgent for good people to run for school board. In order for teachers to be those supportive caring adults that struggling children need, and that I needed, we must support public education. This is my very personal reason for running for this office.
I’m learning a lot as I enter the political arena and, as I do, I hold on to the lessons from those who supported me early in my life: play, have fun, keep going, work hard, be involved. It would mean the world to me to have your support. You can support me with your votes in August and in November, an encouraging message, your time, even a financial contribution.
I also want to support you! If you have considered running for an office, check back often! I plan to post my reflections on being a first-time candidate to help folks who might want to run for something know what they're getting into. No matter the outcome of this election, I hope we can learn together as we work to improve our community. Thank you for your support!