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Becker, Nathan - Hazel Park

Are you an incumbent?

No

Brief Intro of Candidate

I am a lifelong Hazel Park resident with 3 children who are 4th generation students of Hazel Park Schools. My wife is also a lifelong resident and a long time elementary school teacher in the district.

Endorsements

I have received endorsements from HPEA, HPPA, and MEA

Top financials Contributors

Website and social media links

MEA, friends, family, and supportive community members.

How would you engage and include parents, caregivers, community members and students in decision-making in your district around things like curriculum, budgeting and district policy?

As a parent of students myself, I would advocate for parents and community members to be able to be able to voice their concerns with the district. I’m a strong advocate for involving community members and parents in the process. As a school board member, I would ultimately be representing the students and the community. Their voices deserve to be heard and represented in the process.

What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?

There is research that shows restorative practices to be successful. That being said, the learning environment for children and staff has to always be safe and conductive to a healthy learning environment. Ultimately, for the practice to work, it is important to continue to train staff and provide adequate resources for a successful outcome.

What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health

Providing a safe place for students to learn both academically and emotionally is of the utmost importance. Helping students to recognize feelings and know where to turn to for help is key. Teaching awareness and being proactive in making sure resources are available to students when they need them are things that should be focused on to improve mental health.

What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?

We have to do more work to ensure that our teachers and mentors truly understand the background and barriers for Black students in Hazel Park and in Michigan schools overall. Students need to be able to see themselves in their teachers and mentors in order to truly feel safe and be able to learn.

What are your thoughts on how to ensure that all students and their families, regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, disability, religion, income status, etc., feel safe and included in your district?

Representation matters. Hazel Park teachers just ratified contract language to include gender identity along with the other aformentioned protected classes. Setting the example from the top down and employing a diverse workforce will help students to know that they are in a safe place to learn and be themselves.

What are your thoughts on how to recruit and retain staff, particularly staff of color, in your district with regard to pay, benefits, and working conditions?

A strong collective bargaining agreement for employees that protects and ensures fair pay and treatment is essential.

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