Shawneece received her Bachelor of Social Work from Wright State University. Then, she started her career in early childhood education and then, pursued a Masters in Social Work Administration, University of Cincinnati. She has a variety of organizational/family service experience including managing the Regional Center’s California Early Start Program serving infants, toddlers with developmental disabilities. She currently works at an innovative school that unites health, education, and family support. She manages their staff/family capacity-building strategy to ensure that families access concrete supports through family-centered parent wellness coaching.

Education is the key to ultimate freedom and having choices in life.  I believe every student deserves a high-quality education regardless of neighborhood, zip code, race, income, and ethnicity.  My views are consistent with my priorities and commitment as a potential board member.  I believe student and family engagement is one of the cornerstones of high-quality education.  I am student-centered, meaning I believe our students have to be heard and seen and given the opportunity to engage in their education in a meaningful way.  The school environment and classroom must be shaped by trauma-informed practices and a strength-based approach.  Our school environment needs a shift in policies, practices, and beliefs so diverse learners and students with learning needs feel welcomed and a sense of belonging. Our schools, teachers, administrators, parents, and community need to work more closely together so schools are a place of safety, exploration, innovation, and preparation for students to be life-long learners, who are civically-engaged, and prepared for life after high school, whether it’s college or career.