Johnson, Christopher- Detroit Public Schools Community Districtq
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
Hello, my name is Christopher Johnson and I am a passionate advocate for improving the educational system. I have a background in the medical field and education and have worked as a teacher in the past. I am committed to helping students reach their full potential and creating a positive and engaging learning environment. I believe that education is the key to unlocking opportunities and I am dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of students.
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Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
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Campaign to Elect Christopher Johnson
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 and active member of the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), I strongly believe in the importance of engaging and including parents, caregivers, community members, and students in decision-making processes around critical areas such as curriculum, budgeting, and district policy. Here are some ways in which I would advocate for increased involvement of stakeholders in these important decisions:
1. Establishing Parent and Community Advisory Boards: I would propose the creation of advisory boards comprised of parents, caregivers, community members, and students to provide input on key decisions related to curriculum development, budget allocation, and district policy. These advisory boards would serve as a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns, suggestions, and ideas.
2. Hosting Community Forums and Town Halls: I would organize regular community forums and town hall meetings to solicit feedback from parents, caregivers, community members, and students on important issues affecting DPSCD. These meetings would provide an opportunity for open dialogue, transparency, and collaboration in decision-making processes.
3. Conducting Surveys and Listening Sessions: I would utilize surveys and listening sessions to gather input from stakeholders on specific topics such as curriculum preferences, budget priorities, and district policies. By actively seeking out the perspectives of parents, caregivers, community members, and students, we can ensure that decisions are reflective of the needs and priorities of the entire school community.
4. Providing Training and Resources for Engagement: I would advocate for the provision of training and resources to empower parents, caregivers, community members, and students to actively participate in decision-making processes. By equipping stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and tools, we can foster a culture of engagement and collaboration within DPSCD.
Overall, my commitment to inclusive decision-making in DPSCD stems from a belief in the power of diverse perspectives and collective input in shaping a strong and equitable educational system. I am dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and partnership with stakeholders to ensure that decisions are made with the best interests of our students in mind.
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
candidate not asked this question
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
1. Implement Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs: Investing in evidence-based SEL programs can help students develop crucial social and emotional skills, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and relationship building. These programs have been shown to improve mental health outcomes and academic performance.
Funding Options: Schools can allocate existing budget resources for SEL curriculum implementation or seek grants from government agencies, foundations, or private organizations that support mental health and education initiatives.
2. Increase Access to Mental Health Services: Increasing access to mental health services within schools, such as school counselors, psychologists, and therapists, can provide students with the support they need to address mental health concerns and build resilience.
Funding Options: Schools can leverage funding from local or state mental health agencies, Medicaid reimbursement for eligible services, or partner with community mental health organizations to provide on-site mental health services.
3. Promote Mental Health Awareness and Education: Investing in mental health awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational resources can help reduce stigma, increase understanding of mental health issues, and encourage help-seeking behaviors among students.
Funding Options: Schools can secure funding through grants from mental health organizations, corporate sponsorships, or fundraising initiatives within the school community.
4. Implement Trauma-Informed Practices: Adopting trauma-informed practices can help schools create safe and supportive environments for students who have experienced trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or violence. Training teachers and staff on trauma-informed care can help them better understand and respond to the needs of these students.
Funding Options: Schools can allocate funds for staff training on trauma-informed practices or seek grants from organizations that support trauma-informed care initiatives.
5. Create Peer Support Programs: Establishing peer support programs, such as peer mentorship or support groups, can provide students with opportunities to connect with their peers, share experiences, and receive support from others who may be experiencing similar challenges.
Funding Options: Schools can seek funding through grants, donations, or partnerships with community organizations that promote peer support initiatives.
By investing in these strategies and exploring various funding options, schools can improve the mental health outcomes of school-age children and create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that prioritizes the well-being of all students.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
Improving the academic success of Black students in Michigan schools necessitates a comprehensive strategy that tackles the various factors contributing to disparities in educational outcomes. Some potential strategies to consider include:
1. Culturally Responsive Teaching: Implementing culturally relevant curriculum and instructional practices that reflect the experiences, backgrounds, and identities of black students can contribute to making education more engaging and relevant to their lives.
2. Equitable Education Funding: Ensuring that schools with a large number of Black students receive sufficient funding and resources to support their academic success, including access to qualified teachers, technology, and educational materials.
3. Targeted Support and Interventions: Offering tailored interventions and support services, such as tutoring, mentoring, counseling, and academic enrichment programs, to assist Black students in overcoming academic obstacles and achieving success in their educational journey.
4. Professional Development for Educators: Providing training and professional development opportunities for teachers and school staff on culturally responsive teaching practices, implicit bias, and strategies to support the academic success of all students.
5. Family and Community Engagement: Building strong partnerships with families and communities to create a supportive network that encourages student achievement, provides resources, and promotes involvement in Black students' education.
6. Addressing Systemic Inequities: Working to address systemic inequities in education, such as racial segregation, unequal opportunities, and disciplinary disparities, that disproportionately impact black students and hinder their academic success.
7. Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data to identify achievement gaps, track progress, and inform evidence-based strategies to improve outcomes for black students in Michigan schools.
By implementing these strategies and committing to fairness and inclusivity in education, DPSCD and all Michigan schools can strive to achieve greater academic success and educational attainment for students, thereby reducing achievement gaps in the state..
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?
To promote inclusion in schools and create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, including those with disabilities, special needs, or diverse backgrounds, schools can implement various strategies and initiatives. Here are some ways to promote inclusion in schools:
1. Inclusive Curriculum: Develop and implement a curriculum that reflects diverse perspectives, cultures, experiences, and abilities, and promotes understanding, acceptance, and respect for all students.
2. Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Implement UDL principles to create learning environments that are accessible, engaging, and responsive to the diverse learning needs and preferences of all students.
3. Differentiated Instruction: Provide differentiated instruction and support services to accommodate the individual learning styles, strengths, and challenges of all students, including those with disabilities or special needs.
4. Positive Behavior Supports: Implement positive behavior supports and interventions to create a positive and inclusive school climate where all students feel safe, respected, and supported, and address behavioral challenges proactively and constructively.
5. Peer Support Programs: Establish peer support programs, mentorship initiatives, buddy systems, or inclusive clubs and activities that promote social connections, friendships, and peer relationships among all students, including those with disabilities or special needs.
6. Professional Development: Provide ongoing training and professional development for teachers, staff, and administrators on inclusive practices, diversity, equity, and cultural competence, and support them in creating inclusive classrooms and learning environments.
7. Collaborative Partnerships: Foster partnerships with families, community organizations, disability advocacy groups, and relevant stakeholders to enhance support services, resources, and opportunities for students with disabilities, special needs, or diverse backgrounds.
8. Communication and Engagement: Ensure open, transparent, and effective communication with parents, students, and the broader school community, involve them in decision-making processes, seek feedback and input, and actively engage them in promoting inclusion and diversity.
9. Inclusive Policies and Practices: Review and revise school policies, procedures, and practices to ensure they are inclusive, equitable, and supportive of all students, and eliminate barriers, discrimination, and biases that may prevent full participation and access.
By implementing these strategies and initiatives, schools can actively promote inclusion, diversity, and equity, create inclusive learning environments where all students thrive and succeed, and foster a culture of acceptance, respect, and belonging for everyone in the school community.
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?
It is of utmost importance to prioritize the recruitment and retention of teachers and staff for the overall success of any school district. One effective strategy to attract and retain talented educators is by offering competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. By providing a living wage and a well-rounded benefits package, we can incentivize teachers to remain dedicated to their profession and contribute to the long-term success of the district.