Next Steps Show Featuring Jordan Stenzel 4-3-24

Welcome to today’s episode of the Next Steps Show with Peter Vazquez. We have a special guest, el Señor Jordan Stenzel, a committed single parent running for the Greece Central School Board. With deep roots in public health and education, Señor Stenzel is passionate about enriching the district with enhanced safety measures, better resources, and a stronger sense of community.

In our conversation, Señor Stenzel shares alarming statistics that highlight the urgency for action: during the 2019-2020 school year, 84% of public schools reported incidents of violence or theft, totaling 1.4 million incidents. This data underscores the critical need for stricter safety protocols and more robust security resources to ensure a safe learning environment—a foundational element for student success and wellbeing.

Turning to academic enhancement, Stenzel discusses disparities in student performance within the district. With only 45% of students reaching proficiency in English Language Arts as per recent assessments, he advocates for targeted initiatives to improve literacy and math skills. Programs like the American Reading Company have shown promising results in boosting literacy, suggesting that similar strategies could be implemented to strengthen math education.

Señor Stenzel is also a proponent of community schools, which integrate academics with essential services to support holistic development. These schools have been linked to improved attendance and academic achievement, and he aims to expand these programs within the district.

As the conversation shifts to career preparation, Stenzel highlights the success of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which boast a 93% graduation rate. He sees great potential in expanding these opportunities, preparing students for a dynamic workforce by fostering new partnerships and finding innovative funding solutions.

The topic of sustainability surfaces with the discussion of an electric bus mandate. Despite higher upfront costs, electric buses promise significant long-term savings. However, infrastructure and initial investment are substantial hurdles. Stenzel advocates for a balanced approach that considers both environmental benefits and financial realities.

Support for educators is another critical issue for Stenzel, noting that about 8% of teachers leave the profession each year. He stresses the importance of providing adequate resources and support to retain quality educators, which in turn enhances student learning and stabilizes school environments.

Engaging families and listening to students are at the heart of Stenzel’s platform. He believes that active family and community engagement leads to higher academic achievement and better student behavior. By prioritizing the voices of families and students, schools can create a more inclusive and responsive educational environment.

El señor Stenzel addresses fiscal responsibility and the need for transparent budgeting to ensure resources are used efficiently without overburdening taxpayers. He also touches on the nationwide shortage of bus drivers, which affects over half of the districts in the U.S. and calls for community-driven solutions to ensure reliable transportation for all students.

Join us as Señor Stenzel shares his vision for transforming the Greece Central School District into a beacon of learning, safety, and community collaboration. It’s an insightful discussion on how dedicated leadership can make a real difference in the educational landscape.

 

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