The Issues

Where Henry Stands

I’m a leader who will work to make others better, a result of making sure I listen to learn and then implement sound educational policies that are equity-based and impactful for years to come.

I’m running to make sure the school district has as a standard reading proficiency for all students by age 7 or 8 (3rd grade). I will work with ISD 709 leadership to tackle its persistent low graduation rates, which impact a significant number of students.

I’m running to make sure the educational curriculum has standard equity-based classes that include our rapidly changing demographics. In order for ISD 709 students to be successful, all students must be prepared for real-world environments. This means our local school system must work to elevate itself to the changing face of our world. 

I’m running because I want the Duluth Public Schools to be among the best public school systems in the U.S. We’ve had that distinction before. There is nothing keeping us from attaining that distinction again — nothing.

I’m running because I will work to improve the district’s current curriculum. Right now, the district does not have elective classes representative of diverse communities. It is important that elective classes include African American/African Heritage, Asian American, Latino American, Indigenous/First Nations, and more. It’s also important that these classes be taught by professionals from these representational communities.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are more important today than ever before. I endeavor to be a leader making these changes occur to benefit all students of the district. 

I’m running because I will build an open and transparent approach to making sure the community is aware of the challenges and opportunities facing students and families in ISD 709 schools. 

I’m running because I will support the establishment of a BIPOC teachers and administrators recruitment team. It is imperative this team includes members who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color. 

I’m running because I believe the business community should play a stronger, more-engaged role in educating our children. I support and encourage more business-related internship opportunities for students from many academic levels. It’s important these internships be diverse, equity-based, and inclusive rather than exclusive. 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion statement

As a Duluth School Board member, I endeavor to work diligently to provide leadership in making sure diversity, equity and inclusion are valued and a top priority of Independent School District 709 Duluth Public Schools. DEI must be embedded in the mission, values and vision of the District for the benefit of those we are honored and privileged to serve. As a school board member, I promise to recognize and address inequities in policies, programs, and services. As a school board member, I promise to be transparent to all stakeholders with updates and document progress on District diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.