Candace is Committed to Success for Talbot County Public Schools

About Candace

I currently serve on the TCPS School Board, a position I’ve been proud to hold for the last 4 years. I bring over 20 years of advocacy experience and a deep commitment to public education. I am inspired by my personal experiences as a student in Talbot County Public Schools and am a proud alumna of Easton High School. I am also a mother of two TCPS students. My grandmother's legacy as a TCPS educator has instilled in me a profound passion for education, which has fueled my dedication to serving on the Board of Education. Furthermore, my professional background has enriched my understanding of educational systems. I serve as the Director of the Disability Resource Center at Salisbury University and also co-developed and teach in the Disability Studies minor.

Parental Input: How would you address concerns about specific books or instructional materials in the schools?

A comprehensive approach is needed to ensure that all viewpoints are considered, while prioritizing the highest educational standards. I’m proud of the collaborative process that TCPS already employs, and our commitment to understanding that content evaluation, community/parental input, curriculum alignment, and diverse viewpoints are crucial and ensure accuracy, relevance, and age appropriateness. We strive for continuous improvement to sustain intellectual growth and respect all perspectives.

Teen Mental Health Crisis: What programs and policies, if any, do you propose or support to help our schools address the ongoing concerns around student mental health?

Advocacy for student mental health is a personal passion and a high priority of the county. Current programming, such as the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program is vital to addressing mental health challenges. I am a champion for ongoing/accessible school-based services, peer support programs, and wellness initiatives that address the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. I am an advocate for policies that prioritize mental health funding, educator training, and access to care.

Opportunity Gap: How would you ensure that all students have equitable access to resources, challenging courses, and effective teachers and administrators?

Equitable and inclusive access is crucial for promoting educational excellence and addressing disparities. I am committed to advancing TCPS efforts that address equitable resource allocation, targeted support for underserved communities, access to challenging courses for all students, professional development for educators, data-informed decision-making, community engagement, recruitment/retention of diverse educators, and policies that promote educational equity. 

Retention of Effective Teachers and Administrators

To attract and retain effective teachers and administrators, a multifaceted approach is necessary. We must incorporate strategies aimed at creating an appealing/supportive work environment, competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, ongoing support for new teachers and administrators, advancement and leadership opportunities, prioritizing work-life balance, and recognizing/appreciating the value of educators and leaders.