Kathy Bryant-Hunter, Board of Education Candidate
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My name is Kathy Bryant-Hunter, and I am asking for your vote as candidate for At-Large member of the Hawai’i State Board of Education.
Last year, Furlough Fridays became part of our family life. Disappointed at those in power who failed our children, it was my call to action. I helped organize parents from our school, and we took our kids to the state capitol for the first Furlough Friday Rally. Determined to find a way to prevent school furloughs ever happening again, last legislative session, I, along with other “Furlough Moms”, helped pass a law that sets a minimum number of student instructional hours and number of school days.
Gaining more and more knowledge about Hawai’i public education made me realize that even though this new law is an important step in the right direction, our job is not done. Our commitment should be to safeguard the education of our children, and be passionate about the success of students. I want to change the culture of indifference toward our system, so that people truly care about what the BOE does.
If you elect me, I will:
- Make decisions based on student achievement and growth
- Advocate strongly for reform efforts such as the Race to the Top initiatives
- Engage parents and community members in the success of our schools
- Communicate the vision and direction of the public school system
- Ensure that more resources make their way to the classrooms
- Recognize and support our many great teachers, principals, and staff
I will get the job done. I am a professional mediator and facilitator. I work with diverse groups to assist them in building consensus, make tough decisions in a fair and collaborative way, and develop strategic plans. I was also elected to, and served ten years, on the Kailua Neighborhood Board, five of those years as the Chair. The skills I bring will be very valuable on a diverse and opinionated board.
A dedicated school volunteer, I have served on a PTSA board for eleven years, four as President. During my tenure, we started an after school enrichment program, doubled our fundraising income, helped create of a science and robotics program, and mobilized hundreds of parent volunteers. I’ve also served on the Boys and Girls Club Windward Clubhouse Advisory Board, working to provide a safe, fun and challenging place for our young people. These experiences help me understand the day-to-day challenges in a school, the hard work of teachers and principals, and the significance of positive parent and community involvement.
Finally, I’ve been a youth soccer coach for 10 years. Coaching keeps me young, and gives me a true appreciation of the importance of sports, extracurricular activities, and non-traditional forms of learning that keep students engaged and in school.
I’ve done a lot in my profession and community, and I’m proud of my contributions. Bringing the voice of parents and the community, I will encourage the Board of Education to embrace a common vision of success for our students, and work in concert with the Superintendent to move that vision forward.
Mahalo for your vote!
Kathy Bryant-Hunter
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Links:
Kathy Bryant-Hunter — Melanie Bailey campaign website
11 Board of Education Candidates [Olelo] Video, 48 min 45 sec
2010 Election: Candidates & Info Statewide complete candidate list [HPI]
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