Tykocki, Abbie - East Lansing
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
I’ve worked as an educator for the Michigan State University Arts, Cultural Management and Museum Studies program and the Department of Theatre, where I have prioritized professional development in cultural competency, implicit bias training, and anti-racist teaching practices. I bring a combination of skills and experiences to make informed decisions that positively impact the broader educational community.
Leadership Roles: Ability to lead effectively in diverse organizational settings.
- Pinecrest Neighborhood Association Board President
- Michigan State University Department of Theatre Production Manager/Faculty
Community Engagement: Deep involvement and commitment to community issues.
- East Lansing Public Library Millage Renewal Ballot Committee Co-Chair
- East Lansing Housing Commissioner
Educational Insight: Direct involvement in educational policy and planning.
- ELPS Return to School Work Group Covid-19 Planning Community Member
- Robert L. Green Community Council Volunteer
Advocacy and Representation: Perspective that emphasizes the importance of arts, community development, and civic engagement in education.
- East Lansing Emerging Leaders Program Graduate
- East Lansing Arts Commissioner
- Lansing Regional SmartZone (Local Development Finance Authority) Vice Chair
- MSU Center for Survivors, Crisis Advocate
Endorsements
Ron Bacon, former Mayor of East Lansing
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
Friends and family
vote4abbie.com; Instagram @abbietykocki; Facebook Abbie Tykocki for East Lansing Board of Education
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?
Transparency and communication are key. We need to work with administrators to reach beyond public comment at a school board meeting. Emails, texts, social media posts, surveys. We need to distill overwhelming documentation into clear concepts and not only welcome community feedback, but fully engage in it. I think our district does a decent job with this, but improvement is still needed.
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
Our district as recently had the opportunity to dig into this work and the work continues. A district should establish clear, fair, and consistently enforced behavioral expectations. Students should understand the rules and the consequences for breaking them.
We need to focus on repairing harm, encourage responsibility rather than just receiving punishment. Allow students to discuss, understand impacts, and work toward "making it right."
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
Use social-emotional learning programs to teach students emotional regulation, resilience, and interpersonal skills. Work to reduce stigma around mental health education and promote available resources.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
Integrate histories and perspectives into the curriculum and adopt teaching methods that reflect diverse learning styles. Breakdown systemic barriers and address implicit bias. Offer anti-bias training for educators. Review disciplinary policies and work to eliminate disparity. Celebrate diversity to inspire and motivate students.
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?
This is learning and unlearning that should never stop for educators, administrators, and students. We need diverse curriculum and hiring practices because representation matters. We need to give students agency and voice and strong feedback loops. We need strong anti-discrimination policies that are regularly reviewed. We need strong support services and safe spaces to be transparent and truthful.
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?
Get feedback from staff about their experiences and needs and use it to improve working conditions. Consider benefits that cater to specific needs of different communities. Inclusive working conditions including cultural competency and anti-bias education for all staff members, mentorship programs, and clear paths to career advancement. Clear procedures for reporting and addressing issues of discrimination and harassment. Create a strong pipeline for recruitment that will attract a diverse pool of candidates. Recognize and celebrate the contributions of staff from diverse backgrounds.