NameRebekah Ricks
What office are you running for?School Board
County, District/TownshipWinter Haven
Address1085 W Lake Hamilton Dr
Winter Haven, Florida 33881
Map It
Phone(863) 206-7862
EmailEmail hidden; Javascript is required.
Are you currently the officeholder and seeking re-election?no
Is this your first time running for office?No
Election Date08/20/2024
Websiterebekahricks.com
Social Media Handles

https://www.facebook.com/rr4pcsb

KEY ISSUES
1. Provide the top 2 reasons why you want to run for school board?

I am running for the school board to ensure every student in Polk County has access to high-quality education. With over 23 years in education, I am committed to implementing specialized programs, enhancing teacher training, and securing resources to improve academic outcomes. Additionally, my extensive legislative experience allows me to advocate effectively for policies and funding that will benefit our schools, ensuring a supportive and inclusive educational environment for all students.

2. Name the top 2 issues with your current school board or district and how you will address each issue.

The top issues with the current school board are inequitable resource allocation and inadequate support for diverse student needs. Rapid growth has led to disparities in resource distribution, affecting educational quality. To address this, I will advocate for equitable resource distribution through public-private partnerships, grants, and state funding. Additionally, many students with learning disabilities and ESOL students lack specialized support. I will implement and fund specialized programs and ensure teachers receive proper training.

3. Do you support school choice? Why or why not?

Yes, I support school choice because it empowers parents to select the best educational environment for their children, ensuring that each student can thrive in a setting that meets their unique needs. School choice promotes competition, which can lead to overall improvements in educational quality and innovation. By offering a variety of educational options, including public, charter, and specialized schools, we can better address the diverse needs of our student population and foster an inclusive, high-quality educational system.

4. Who do you think is the ultimate authority in a child’s education and wellbeing?

I believe that parents are the ultimate authority in a child’s education and wellbeing. Parents know their children's unique needs, strengths, and challenges best and should have the primary role in making decisions about their education and overall development. However, this authority should be supported by a collaborative partnership with educators, schools, and the community to ensure that every child receives the best possible opportunities for success.

5. Do you agree with the statement “America is inherently racist”? Why or why not?

I do not agree with the statement "America is inherently racist." While it's undeniable that racism and inequality exist and have been part of the nation's history, I believe that America is built on ideals of freedom, equality, and justice. It's crucial to acknowledge past and present injustices and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. We should focus on addressing systemic issues and promoting unity and understanding among all Americans.

6. What are your thoughts on “Comprehensive Sex Education”, “Diversity Equity and Inclusion”, and “Social Emotional Learning”? Should these be a part of our public education curriculum or supplemental learning materials or left to parents to teach and why?

I believe that comprehensive sex education, diversity equity and inclusion (DEI), and social emotional learning (SEL) should not be mandatory components of the public education curriculum. Instead, these programs should be offered on an opt-in basis, allowing parents to decide if and when their children participate. Parents are the primary authority in their child's education and wellbeing, and they should have the ability to choose the educational content that aligns with their values and beliefs. This approach respects parental choice and ensures that families can make decisions that are best suited for their individual needs.

7. With declining academic achievement in reading, writing, math, and science in schools across the nation, how would you address these issues if elected?

To address declining academic achievement in reading, writing, math, and science, I will implement evidence-based teaching methods and provide ongoing professional development for teachers. Early identification of struggling students will allow for targeted interventions and personalized learning plans. Securing increased funding and developing public-private partnerships will ensure adequate resources. Additionally, I will promote parental and community engagement, expand STEM programs, and implement comprehensive literacy and math initiatives.

8. Safety is a major concern for most families, how would you support and encourage safety measures for girls in their private spaces, if elected?

Safety is a major concern for most families, and if elected, I would support and encourage safety measures for girls in their private spaces by implementing and enforcing strict policies to ensure their privacy and security. This includes maintaining separate restrooms and locker rooms, enhancing supervision and monitoring in these areas, and providing thorough training for staff on safeguarding practices. Additionally, I would advocate for comprehensive safety education programs that empower girls to protect themselves and report any concerns. By prioritizing these measures, we can create a secure and supportive environment for all students.

9. Do you believe Title IX is in jeopardy in our public education system today?

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10. Do you have any other endorsements? If so, please list them.

Florida Republican Assembly
Republican National Hispanic Assembly of Florida