Candidate Survey: Ashley Kearney for Prince George's County Board of Education, District 6

TheDuckpin.com Candidate Survey

Name *

Ashley Kearney

Age *

32

Office Sought *

Board of Education

County *

Prince George's

District, if applicable *

District 6

Political Party *

Democrat

Education *

M.Ed, Johns Hopkins University

Career/Occupation *

Educator

Political Experience *

N/A

Social Media Accounts *

IG: @Ashleykearneyforschoolboard Twitter:@AKearneyforSB

Website *

ashleykearneyforschoolboard.com

Why are you running for office? *

Education is my top priority because I have personally experienced the benefits of a quality education. The partnership between my teachers, family and the community ensured a supportive and responsive learning environment that provided the safety and stability I needed to set a strong foundation. After transitioning to Congress with over a decade of experience in the classroom, including teaching during COVID-19, and leading on several education related boards, I want to work with and for families to ensure that the historic investments in education and this national push for equity translates to collective recovery and better outcomes for their student.

Who do you consider your political role model, and why? *

One of my political role models is Representative Alma Adams because she is a former educator of 40 years, former school board member, and relentless servant with documented successes and clear priority of improving the lives of young people. During my time in Congress, I've personally witnessed her efforts, especially as lead of the Congressional Bipartisan Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus.

What is your favorite book about politics and policy, and why? *

I fight daily to ensure more equitable practices. Anti-Racist Educational Leadership and Policy by Sarah Diem & Anjalé Welton made plain the connection between policy decisions and systemic racism, provided tools, and made a call to action for school leaders (teachers, principals, superintendents) to understand the policy context and actively be anti-racist in order to create a system for all students--confirming my belief that it's possible to be better and that we are in this together.

What will be your top priority in office? *

Education--working towards a strong recovery.

What is the biggest issue facing your area? *

School Safety, as it relates to health and shortages

What are the three biggest issues facing Maryland? *

Three of the top education issues for Maryland include: Governance and Accountability, High Quality and Diverse Teachers and Leaders, and College and Career Readiness

What is your position on life issues? (abortion, assisted suicide) *

N/A

What is your position on taxes and spending? *

Residents should be assured that their tax dollars are being responsibly utilized to aid in providing a quality education for all students, especially students with the most need.

What is your position on gun rights? *

N/A

What is your position on the legalization of marijuana? *

N/A

What is your position on the current three-tiered system for the sale and distribution of alcohol? *

N/A

What is your position on land use, growth, and development? *

N/A

What is your position on crime and public safety? *

All students deserve a safe transition to and from school, and a safe and supportive place to learn while in school. Proactive and preventative measures to address crime and public safety, especially regarding juvenile offenders, are needed. I support comprehensive safety planning that involve schools, mental health supports, and community activists working in coalition for better solutions.

What is your position on county tax caps? *

N/A

Was Joe Biden legitimately elected President of the United States in the November 2020 Election? *

Yes

Do you pledge to accept the results of your election? *

Yes