Kailee Watson, board president, Desert Sands Unified School District
How long have you been on the school board and why are you passionate about your work?
I joined the board of education in December 2022 and am excited to continue serving for another four years starting this December. My passion for education stems from two main sources: my three children who are currently enrolled in our district, and my pride as a graduate of this district. I am dedicated to ensuring that all our students achieve success in their educational journeys.
What is one thing you’ve learned while on the school board that other trustees may find helpful?
Since joining the board of education, I believe my greatest advice is the importance of building strong relationships with our administrators. Being present and ensuring they feel appreciated and heard is essential for making effective districtwide decisions. I recognize that each school has unique needs, and understanding and seeing this firsthand allows us to make equitable choices that ensure all our students receive the best educational opportunities.
What was the most impactful initiative your board spearheaded in the 2023–24 school year?
Over the past year, our board has dedicated countless hours alongside our superintendent and cabinet to build a strong governance team. Together, we established goals for our district staff to provide clear structure, guidance and expectations. This collaborative effort has demonstrated to our community that our board of education is committed to making positive decisions for our district, culminating in the successful passage of a $675 million bond for school facilities and technology upgrades.
What are your district’s priority areas for this academic year?
Our district priorities are clear and well-known, centered around three main areas: early literacy, college and career readiness, and mental health. Within these priorities, one crucial aspect I consistently emphasize is safety. If our students and staff do not feel physically and emotionally safe at school, they cannot perform at their best.
How do you foster a positive relationship with your local community?
The relationships I’ve built with our community are crucial for my success as a board of education member. It’s vital to be approachable and to ensure that parents and community members feel heard and valued. With three young children, I am actively involved in community events and volunteer at their schools. Professionally, I engage daily with parents, students, staff and community members. I welcome both positive and negative feedback and truly appreciate diverse perspectives. Being present is the best way to understand the wants and, more importantly, the needs of our district.
Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
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