Kim Miller, a candidate for the St. Joseph School District Board of Education, is running for a second term with a clear focus on student well-being and academic growth. Miller emphasizes three key priorities: reducing bullying, boosting parental involvement, and improving academic performance.
While proposed measures have been a major talking point this election season, Miller stressed that her biggest concern is students. “We spend a lot of time talking about buildings, but we can’t forget that it’s the students inside the buildings that really matter,” she said. “The voters will decide the bond, but student success always comes first.”
Addressing Bullying
Miller believes tackling bullying requires clear policies, better supervision, and mentorship programs. She suggests enforcing consistent anti-bullying rules, increasing adult presence in high-risk areas like hallways and playgrounds, and pairing older students with younger ones for guidance.
“The board’s role is to support staff by encouraging clear, consistent policies that everyone can follow,” Miller explained. “We often hear from parents about bullying incidents—whether it’s in the bathroom, on the bus, or elsewhere. We need to address these concerns effectively.”
Boosting Parental Involvement
Miller is a strong advocate for greater family engagement in schools. She has attended sessions hosted by the Family Leadership Institute, which promotes collaboration between families and school administrations.
“We’ve used family forums to invite parents in, offering dinner and information to build stronger relationships,” she said. “This isn’t about interfering with teaching—it’s about giving parents the opportunity to be active participants in their children’s education.”
Driving Academic Improvement
Miller also supports the district’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP), which helps teachers identify areas for growth and enhance student learning.
“The CSIP focuses on what’s happening in the classroom—how effectively teachers are delivering lessons and how well students are absorbing and applying that knowledge,” she said. “It also allows us to compare our progress with other districts of similar size.”
Miller’s campaign centers on putting students first, ensuring their safety, and fostering a collaborative environment for families and educators. As she seeks re-election, she remains committed to making decisions that prioritize the success and well-being of every student in the district.
