Campaign email: deniseperryea@gmail.com
Age: 64
Employment: Retired
Education: Graduated from University of Maryland with a Bachelor’s Degree
Why are you running for the school board?
I want our students to have a quality education that gives them the tools to pursue higher education and or the career path that they chose. Six of the 10 Title 1 schools are in my district. Title 1 schools are entitled to government funding for additional services and assistance and instruction. The funding also provides professional development for all staff to support all students. Monitoring and regular reporting of these restricted funding should occur on a regular basis.
What makes you a good candidate for the board?
My commitment to service makes me a good candidate. I have served my community and my country for more than 30 years. During my military service I served with people from all over the world. I and my children are graduates of Harford County Public Schools. My grandchildren are currently attending public school. I am engaged with their education. This gives me a perspective and insight into the education that they are receiving. I am a graduate of University of Maryland, where I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with a concentration in accounting.
Please name a public leader you admire and explain why.
Nelson Mandela is someone I admire. He was willing to stand up to the system of apartheid and fight to end it’s practice. He endured years in prison for his beliefs. When he was released he worked to bring the country together so that everyone enjoyed the freedoms to have a good life.
What is the most important issue facing your school board, and what would you do about it if elected?
The loss of learning from the school closures and the transition to online learning during the pandemic. Offering additional resources for students so that they can be at grade level. The virtual platform could be used after school and over the weekend to practice the skills they need.
How concerned are you about school safety, and what if anything should be done to improve it?
I am concerned with the prevalence of bullying and safety in schools. Schools need to develop policies and procedures such as updating the emergency plan on a biannual basis, conducting evacuation drills and involving parents in the emergency plan.
Do you have any concerns about the way history is taught in your district’s schools, and if so, what are they?
Yes, I believe that the complete history of America should be taught. The United States is a melting pot of different cultures, ethnicities and races. The history taught in our schools should be complete and inclusive. The contributions from all of us are what makes this country great. We also need to recognize the harm that has been done. A curriculum that teaches our full history will make our students more prepared for success.
Do you think there are circumstances when books should be removed from school libraries, and if so, what kind of books should be removed?
Schools should develop systems and criteria for banning books from the library. Books that may be inappropriate for the age group of the children should be reviewed for content to ensure that they are appropriate for that grade level.
