Dr. Julie Greenawalt
Jan Brefczynski
Dr. Julie Greenawalt is not just the chair of Conservative Women of Action (CWA), she is also a retired nurse, school nurse, and United States Air Force officer. We sat down with her to learn more about her latest endeavor.
Dr. Greenawalt completed her undergraduate at Bradley University in nursing. After graduating, she joined the Air Force where she met her husband Scott. She raised three children, served locally as a school nurse, and completed her PhD in nursing. She taught at a public university for more than 20 years prior to retiring here two years ago.
Dr. Greenawalt is a candidate for School Board in the May election. She acknowledges the great things Denton ISD is doing but sees it facing some challenges. As a retired nurse, she has a unique skill set which will assist her to help the parents of DISD to navigate these turbulent times effectively. We asked her to articulate her positions on the following:
What is the role of a school board member?
The primary role is to establish and uphold district policies while ensuring responsible fiscal oversight and serving as the crucial link between the community and the classroom. Accessibility and willingness to engage with parents and community members are vital qualities for fostering collaboration and trust.
What is your vision for education in the community?
Education should serve as a foundation for lifelong learning and success. My vision is for students, parents, educators, and the community to recognize and appreciate the opportunities provided within the district. The K-12 journey must equip students with the necessary skills to excel beyond their schooling, reinforcing the belief that excellence knows no bounds and that education is the key to success.
What do you see as major issues facing DISD?
1. Academic Performance: Public education is fundamental to a thriving community. It must establish strong foundations in reading, writing, and mathematics to equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Without this foundation, the community risks long-term decline. Managing district growth effectively to ensure that every student receives a high-quality education is essential for success.
2. Transparency and Collaboration: There is room for improvement in fostering transparency, collegiality, and collaboration between the school system and parents. Addressing underlying philosophical differences in education is crucial for progress.
3. Budgetary Concerns: The school board must exercise responsible stewardship over district funds, ensuring resources are allocated wisely without unnecessary overspending.
What are your suggestions for improvement?
• I support school choice. Options provide competition, and competition breeds excellence.
• I support a full curricular review that incorporates teachers, parents, and community. For example, I see a gap between the STAAR outcomes and student outcomes. Strive to fill the gap.
• I support a review of staffing needs for all programs. Adequate numbers of teachers and mid-level staff are key to successful delivery of a quality curriculum.
By addressing these areas, we can build a stronger, more effective educational system that supports student success and community growth. DISD can go Beyond Expectations with quality leadership!