Candidate profile: Kathy Miks

Profession: Engineer

Residence: Littleton

Campaign Website: miksforjeffcostudents.com

Why are you seeking this office?

I want to make a positive difference in our community. My Jeffco education prepared me, my husband and our three children for success and I want all students to have access to the same foundation. Today far too many students can’t do grade level work and as an engineer that breaks my heart because I know it can limit their future options. I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I’ve had without a great education.

What makes you the best person for the job?

I have the financial experience to oversee Jeffco’s $1.4 billion budget which over the last five years has grown 33% versus a 10% inflation rate. Over the same time enrollment has declined by over 6,000 students. I have the governance experience having served in leadership positions for three large industry trade associations. I have the respect for parents and students and the focus needed to ensure all Jeffco students have access to great academics and extracurricular activities.

What are your top three priorities if elected?

My first priority is to ensure students have great academic and extra-curricular options. I coached volleyball at Columbine for ten years and know how important it is for students’ mental well-being to have both. As a business leader, I know it is important to spend our resources wisely. So, second, I will look for ways to reallocate spending and fund what works. Third I will respect our parents and community by providing transparent governance.

Student test score results were flagging across the district, even before COVID-19. What is the number one way you’d seek to improve student achievement?

Having worked on very complex systems and problems, I know to see improvements you must determine the root cause, then fund what works. We must evaluate curriculum ensuring it supports teaching basic skills and invest in the curriculum that works. We must clear teachers’ plates of things that don’t support teaching and provide professional development where needed. We must inspire students to want to learn so they are engaged and see relevance in their academics.

What do you believe is the most important thing to keep in mind when making Covid-related decisions?

We must put our children first and make sure that all decisions are based on what is best for them. Some say children are resilient and can recover easily. I say that we must do what is best during their most formative years. Adults must meet the needs of students. Being in-person and participating in activities is critical for students’ academic, physical, and emotional well-being. We must look at data, have transparent conversations, and make informed decisions.