Perri Ann Parkman

Q. What is your top priority for the district as a candidate for School Board and what strategies do you suggest to address it? 

Directing attention and resources to early learning will be my top priority for the board as nothing can impact education like reading. 50 % of our third graders are not reading with proficiency and fall further behind as the grow. This then takes resources to try to get them to “catch up”, which would not have been necessary if we get reading right the first time.

Q. What is the biggest opportunity that, if embraced by the district, would lead to an improvement in student achievement?

I believe cell phones and social media have done more to dissuade learning than any other factor and getting them out of the classroom would greatly affect productivity and learning objectives. We must prioritize a learning environment that is focused on teaching students how to learn not what to learn. To facilitate educating the mind, not numbing it.

Q. How can we ensure our Pre-K through 12th grade district programs and curriculum meet the needs of our business community in preparing students to successfully enter the workforce and/or pursue post-secondary educational opportunities?

While a focus on college prep class is a good thing we need to address the almost 40 % of students who will not be going to college. By focusing on the basics for any job, reading , writing and arithmetic, especially reading, we can deliver literate graduates who are ready to enter the workforce, ready to start careers whether it is a technical skill, joining our fine military force or become first responders serving the community. We need to expand work study programs, technical training and community partnerships to ensure productive members of society are the product of MCSD.

Q. What role should local businesses play in supporting our schools to ensure students success and that they are graduating with the skills necessary for successful employment?

Local businesses should take a vested interest in Manatee county students as they are the primary source of human capital for them. They should participate in career days, explain the benefits of being in their respective fields, open their businesses to work study programs and offer mentor based employment opportunities to those kids who want to enter the skilled trades.