Cape Girardeau School Board candidate Tracy Gibbar Curtis

Name Tracy Gibbar Curtis

Age 38

Place of Birth Cape Girardeau, MO

Spouse, children's names

Trey Curtis-husband

Gibson Curtis-son

Morgan Curtis-daughter

Occupation: Pilates and Yoga Instructor

Employer: The Edge

Business owned, all or part

Concept Ag

Previous offices held or sought

Alma Schrader PTO President

What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?

I am passionate about providing the highest level education to all levels of students. I have worked with Schrader PTO for the past 6 years, currently as president. This year I have been on a committee at CMS to better the transition from 4th grade to CMS. I have an understanding of what is happening from the perspective of the parents and teachers and see myself as a liaison for the families, teachers and public.

What do you see as the opportunities and challenges in the district?

We have wonderful educators in the Cape schools. We have the opportunity to be a support system for these educators, and in turn, provide the highest level of education to all levels of students. We can't do that without good communication and strong leadership. Currently communication is a challenge. Positive change can't be made without the help and feedback of our community.

How will you communicate your work to your constituents?

I want to be a voice for the community. A voice for parents, teachers, and the public. I am already in some of the schools on a weekly basis. I am open to talking with anyone about the challenges we face in education. I would like to see a greater School Board presence in the schools to better facilitate communication.

What are the factors on which you will base your decisions as a school board member?

I believe that our greatest assets are our teachers, administrators and parents. What is happening, what is working and what is not working from the classroom level, up, is what we need to be looking at before making decisions and implementing new policies.