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Jen Dayton: Passionate Advocate for Education and Community

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Photo Credit: Oh Shoot Photography

Hello! My name is Jen Dayton, and I am running for Trustee on the Kalamazoo Public School Board. I have lived in Kalamazoo for over twenty years and strongly advocate for educational excellence. I am dedicated to ensuring that our KPS schools meet and exceed every student's needs.

 

With my extensive experience in public and higher education, data and assessment, reading and literacy instruction, and being a former KPS educator and district parent, I bring a unique perspective dedicated to improving our educational system. Every KPS student deserves access to a quality education that nurtures their talents and prepares them for a successful future.​​

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Educational Philosophy and Vision

 

My educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that all KPS students, regardless of their background or ability, have the right to a high-quality education that is inclusive, accessible, and engaging.

 

Education should empower students, encourage their critical thinking, and equip them with the tools necessary for lifelong learning. Effective teaching requires collaboration among teachers, parents, administrators, and the community to create a supportive environment that promotes student growth.

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My vision for the Kalamazoo Public School District is to create an educational environment that fosters student achievement, supports teacher development, and engages with the Kalamazoo community. I envision schools where:

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- Academic Excellence: Each classroom fosters a high-quality academic environment with a rigorous, relevant curriculum to prepare students for the Kalamazoo Promise scholarship, college, careers, and beyond.

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- Inclusive Education: Tailored resources and compassionate support are provided to meet special education and diverse learning needs, ensuring all students succeed.

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- Health and Safety: Schools are secure, and students can access comprehensive mental health services, promoting well-being and a safe learning atmosphere.

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- Community Collaboration: Strong partnerships with local organizations enhance educational opportunities and community involvement.

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- Transparency and Accountability: All decisions are made with a clear commitment to transparency, ensuring that KPS parents and community members are actively involved and informed in the educational process.

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By implementing these principles, we can ensure that our district leads in educational innovation and nurtures the development of well-rounded students who are prepared to lead successful and fulfilling lives.

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Key Initiatives

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  • Student Achievement and Academic Performance

    • Commitment to enhancing curriculum and educational resources

    • Examples of proposed programs or improvements

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  • Special Education Funding

    • Support increased district funding for K-12 Special Education each year.

    • Impact of adequate funding on special education outcomes

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  • College and Career Readiness​

    • Importance of preparing students for various post-secondary path

    • Initiatives to expand College & Career Readiness opportunities

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  • School Safety Measures

    • Support of installation of metal detectors at middle and high schools

    • Discussion of comprehensive safety strategies for students and staff

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  • Mental Health Services

    • Support increasing funding for student mental health services

    • Strategies to integrate mental health education into the school curriculum

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  • Compensation for Educators and Staff

    • Advocacy for increased pay for teachers and support staff

    • Importance of recognizing and rewarding educational professionals

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  • District Transparency

    • Commitment to transparency with all key stakeholders (parents, students, community members)

    • Methods to enhance communication and reporting

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  • Smaller Class Sizes in Early Education

    • Support the reduction of class sizes in kindergarten through 3rd grade

    • Benefits of smaller class sizes on early learning experiences

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  • Addressing Chronic Absenteeism and Graduation Rates

    • Strategies to reduce student chronic absenteeism

    • Initiatives to increase graduation rates year over year

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Professional Track Record & Qualifications

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Entrepreneurial and Business Ventures
 

- Homecrest & Co., LLC
  Founder & Owner
- Established in April 2023, Homecrest & Co. offers unique home decor and lifestyle products, with a large emphasis on Michigan-made products as well as professional staging services.

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Sales and Education Consulting Experience

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- Pearson Education & McGraw Hill Education  
  Higher Education Sales Consultant 
- Over three years of experience in the higher education sector, specializing in consulting with professors and instructors to integrate educational materials and resources into higher education curricula.
- Demonstrated success in building strong relationships with academic professionals and institutions, driving sales, and providing tailored solutions to meet educational needs.

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- NWEA, (Northwest Evaluation Association) 
  Account Executive
- Experience in the K-12 public education sector, specializing in consulting with district adminstration to integrate educational assessment solutions, district professional development, and resources into their K-12 education curricula to match the district's needs and strategic plan.
- Demonstrated success in developing strong relationships with K-12 administrators and public school districts by offering tailored solutions to address educational and district requirements.

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Educational and Community Involvement

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- Kalamazoo Public Schools (KPS)
  Educator 
- Nearly ten years of experience as an educator, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for students.
- Committed to enhancing educational outcomes through innovative teaching strategies and a student-centered approach.

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- Kappa Delta Pi (International Honor Society in Education) 
  Vice President, 2008-2009
- Leadership role in promoting academic excellence and fostering a community of future WMU educators dedicated to public education.

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- Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC)
  Associate of Arts Degree, May 2006
- Comprehensive understanding of fundamental subject courses and educational practices, focusing on elementary education.

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- Western Michigan University (WMU)
  Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education, K-8

  Early Childhood Education (ZA Endorsement), April 2009
- Deep understanding of educational theories and practices, specifically in elementary education. Comprehensive understanding of educational theories and practices, focusing on elementary education.

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- Marygrove College
  Master's Degree in Education with a focus on Reading & Literacy K-6, December 2013   
- Specialized expertise in reading and literacy, particularly for students in grades K-6, enhancing instructional techniques and supporting literacy development.​​

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​Conclusion​​​​

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Throughout my twenty years of involvement in the Kalamazoo community, I have dedicated myself to enhancing educational and community initiatives. My diverse background includes roles in sales, education, and leadership, complemented by a strong commitment to service and professional growth.

 

With extensive experience in consulting, teaching, and community engagement, I offer a unique set of skills and expertise to the KPS board. ​​​

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Contact Information​

For more information about my campaign, to discuss any concerns or ideas you may have, or for volunteer opportunities, please contact me at:

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