OPINION — I grew up in SUSD and was among the first students to graduate from Desert Mountain High School. My wife and I wanted our children to follow that same path, so we bought a home within walking distance of Anasazi Elementary, Mountainside Middle School and Desert Mountain.
Unfortunately, like many families, we eventually made the difficult decision to leave SUSD.
Our early years at Anasazi were positive. The teachers were engaged and our children were thriving. But after COVID, we became increasingly concerned about the district’s growing reliance on technology. What began as a necessary way to keep students connected became a regular part of classroom learning, bringing more screen time and digital distractions.
When we raised concerns, we often felt parents had little influence over district-level decisions. That experience convinced me SUSD needs board members who will listen to families, ask tough questions, prioritize academics, and hold district leadership accountable.
That’s why I’m supporting Amy Carney and Jeanne Beasley for Scottsdale Unified School Board.
Amy has demonstrated during her time on the board that she is willing to ask difficult questions and stand up for students, parents, teachers and taxpayers. She has advocated for less screen time, strong academics, transparency, responsible spending, and keeping neighborhood schools open.
Jeanne brings valuable experience as an SUSD parent, taxpayer, District Audit Committee member and engaged community advocate. She has spent years paying attention to district decisions, studying budgets, and listening to families. Her professional background as a litigation paralegal also gives her skills to examine details, ask important questions and insist on accountability before making major decisions.
Together, Amy and Jeanne will put students first, support parents and teachers, spend taxpayer dollars wisely, and work to strengthen the neighborhood schools our community depends on.
Join me in voting for them this November.
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