Natalie Pilkinton

Qualifications: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?

I have volunteered in schools even before I had kids. Edison middle school in the East End I did and after school basketball program. I also volunteered at Communities in Schools or CIS. From there I went on to be PTO President of Hirsch Elementary, Klein Oak Boys Basketball Booster President. Also volunteered with the AAYFDT for the football and cheer for kids. I am also a professional business person that understands communication.

Opportunities: What opportunities for improvement do you identify in the District and how do you feel the Board should work towards those goals?

The district needs to support the teachers, not jut when its comfortable for them. Teachers are where the rubber meets the road. They have a lot on their plate with so many IEPs and 504 plans. We can support them very easily by enforcing the current code of conduct and ensure the kids and teachers are kept safe!
We also need to have better communication from the Board level with the parents. Currently the schools attorney is running the district

Funding: What actions can the Board take to secure the financial future of the District? Specifically, are there any expenditures you feel should be examined as a cost-saving measure?

We need to trim at the top. Administration has added more and more payroll up top while teachers and school level are pinched. Asked to give up more and supply more in order to have teaching supplies for their class room. BY making the schools a better place to be for all attendance will increase.

Supporting Teachers: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing teachers in the District? What actions can the Board take to better support and retain teachers?

Teachers are pulled in so many directions; teaching the test, following 504 and IEP plans for students, all while teaching to the masses and trying to keep kids from having meltdowns. While upper classmen teachers are dealing with disrespect, assaults and little support from the top. When a teacher has a concern they arent heard. They are even moved schools for speaking out. Ask Ms Darden the whistleblower from Klein Cain Sex Trafficking case.

Future Voters: Assess how the District prepares students to participate in their country’s democracy and describe what the Board can do to support civic engagement efforts.

The Board can do less campaigning and more listening. When a child comes to a board meeting you dont cut their mic off mid 2 min talk. You encourage through civics class to be involved. You lead by example and how you want your kids taken care of. You can bring in your state reps to discuss in the high schools. Teach them how important it is to be involved. How a few strong voices impact so much. Teach them about the structure and function of gov